What Is Mudjacking?
Mudjacking, also called slabjacking or pressure grouting, is a proven concrete leveling method that has been used for decades to raise sunken or uneven concrete slabs. This traditional approach involves pumping a cement-based slurry mixture beneath settled concrete to lift it back to its original position.
For homeowners and business owners in Waco, Hewitt, Robinson, and throughout Central Texas, mudjacking offers an economical alternative to complete concrete replacement. When driveways, sidewalks, patios, or garage floors settle due to soil erosion or compaction, mudjacking can restore both function and appearance without the expense and disruption of demolition and replacement.
The Mudjacking Process: How It Works
Our mudjacking process follows a systematic approach that has been refined over many years in the concrete leveling industry:
Step 1: Assessment and Preparation
Our technicians begin by thoroughly inspecting the sunken concrete to determine the extent of settlement and identify the underlying cause. We examine soil conditions, drainage patterns, and the structural integrity of the concrete slab itself.
Step 2: Strategic Hole Drilling
We drill a series of holes through the concrete slab, typically 1 to 2 inches in diameter. These holes are strategically placed to ensure even lifting. The number and placement of holes depend on the size and settlement pattern of the affected area.
Step 3: Slurry Injection
A specially formulated cement-based slurry mixture is pumped through the holes at controlled pressure. This mixture typically consists of Portland cement, water, sand, and other materials that create a dense, stable fill. As the slurry flows beneath the slab, it fills voids and gradually raises the concrete to the desired level.
Step 4: Monitoring and Adjustment
Throughout the pumping process, our technicians carefully monitor the slab's movement using precision levels. We make real-time adjustments to ensure accurate lifting without over-correction.
Step 5: Hole Patching and Cleanup
Once the slab reaches the correct elevation, we patch the injection holes with fresh concrete. After the patches cure, the surface is cleaned, leaving your concrete level and ready for use.
When Mudjacking Is the Right Choice
Budget-Conscious Projects
For property owners seeking the most economical concrete leveling option, mudjacking typically costs less than polyurethane foam injection. The materials used in mudjacking are less expensive, making it an attractive choice when budget is a primary concern.
Large Surface Areas
Mudjacking is particularly well-suited for lifting large concrete slabs such as expansive driveways, commercial parking areas, or warehouse floors. The cement slurry mixture provides substantial volume at a lower material cost.
Heavy-Duty Applications
The dense, cement-based material used in mudjacking creates a solid, compacted fill that can support significant weight. This makes it appropriate for areas that bear heavy loads, including garage floors, industrial facilities, and commercial spaces.
Mudjacking vs. Polyurethane Foam Leveling
At Waco Concrete Leveling, we offer both mudjacking and polyurethane foam leveling services. Mudjacking offers lower cost and a proven track record, while foam leveling provides smaller holes, lighter material, and faster cure times. We'll help you determine which method is best for your specific situation.
Ideal Applications for Mudjacking in Waco
Mudjacking has proven effective for residential driveways, sidewalks, patio slabs, garage floors, pool decks, and commercial applications throughout Central Texas. The unique soil conditions in Waco and Central Texas make concrete settlement a common problem—and mudjacking addresses these issues without requiring complete replacement.
