MUD/SLABJACKING
Mud jacking or "Slab Jacking" is generic terminology that describes a variety of methods to raise depressed concrete back to it's original level.
Slab Jacking has been a common repair method for many years, primarily in the mid-western region of the U.S. It is now found in just about any city in the United States.
The concept is very simple, but should only be attempted by professionals as it requires very subtle techniques to get it to work just the right way. A grout-type material (often top soil, sand/clay or grout) is pumped under the slab through small holes. The material fills any and all voids and then lifts the slab back into position. The holes are patched with cement and the surface is ready to use.
The first question is always, replace or repair?
Concrete replacement is expensive. It is simple math. Concrete contractors must make up to three trips to a location to replace a simple slab of concrete with removal, framing, pouring, removal of forming material, and cutting of joints. Add to this the ever-growing problem of environmental constraints on concrete disposal and the replacement cost of a simple 10x10-foot driveway or pool deck can be upwards of $1,000.
Repair of misaligned slab panels has historically been achieved by mudjacking or slabjacking. This is the process of injecting a mud/slurry mix under concrete slabs with a specialized hydraulically powered mud pump to lift the concrete. We drill 1 5/8-inch holes in slabs and inject the slurry under the slab, building up enough pressure to lift the concrete.
This technique allows us to lift, pitch, or level any unrestrained slabs.
Advantages of Slab Jacking rather than Replacement:
Historically, mudjacking or slabjacking has been about half the cost of replacement. Repair options have been chosen more frequently due to the lower cost.
Immediate Access
You can drive on concrete that was raised in three to four hours. You can walk on raised concrete right after Slab-Jacking.
No Re-landscaping Needed
We do not disturb any existing landscaping.
Cost Effectiveness
On third to one half the cost of replacement with Slab-Jacking.
Quickness
Because we raise the existing concrete, we do not have to tear out the old concrete, take it away, grade the area, set the forms, lay any wire mesh, pour or finish, wait for the concrete to cure, tear off forms and replace landscaping. We are done in just a fraction of the time. Usage of the area is only interrupted for a very short period of time.
We can perform all of our work in a clean and safe manner inside of offices and in warehouses, often completing our work on weekends or during the night.
