Mudjacking vs. PolyRenewal™ for Effective Concrete Repair

Here, we’ll further explore the differences between mudjacking and polyurethane injections so you can make the best decision for your home.

What Is Mudjacking?

Mudjacking—also known as slab jacking and grout pumping—involves pumping materials underneath a sinking concrete slab to lift it back into place.

The process includes:

• Drilling a soda can-sized hole into the concrete
• Mixing the cement/slurry together
• Pumping the slurry underneath the slab
• Allowing the material to harden

Cons of Mudjacking

While this seems straightforward, it is detrimental and ineffective for several reasons, including:

• Large holes are drilled throughout the affected area.
• The slurry only fills a cone-shaped area directly beneath the injection point.
• Lengthy downtime as the slurry hardens.
• The heavy slurry material causes further settlement.
• The solution is temporary, only lasting a few years.

Though it has been a widely used concrete repair method for many years, mudjacking has proven itself to be dated and damaging. It would require continued installation with no promise of adequately supporting or protecting your property’s sinking concrete.

What Are Polyurethane Injections?

Polyurethane injections use the same concept as mudjacking, but take it to another level. Here’s a look at how Tar Heel Basement Systems installs the revolutionary PolyRenewal™ system:

• Drill penny-sized holes into the concrete.
• Place injection ports into the holes.
• Mix together a two-part closed-cell polyurethane foam.
• Inject the foam underneath the concrete.
• Allow the foam to expand and harden (within about 15 minutes).
• Remove the injection ports.
• Fill and smooth the drilled holes and seal any visible cracks and joints.

Pros of Polyurethane Injections

As you can see, concrete lifting with PolyRenewal™ polyurethane injections is a simpler and more beneficial alternative to mudjacking. It stands out for many reasons, such as:

• Less invasive
• Lightweight material
• Expands to completely fill voids between the slab and the soil
• Quick cure time
• Longer lasting
• Versatile use

While polyurethane injections have been used for several years, they are the wave of the future not only for residential use but commercial concrete lifting, as well.

Contact Tar Heel for Lasting Concrete Lifting

Concrete slabs can be found everywhere on our properties, and it’s essential to ensure their safety and stability. They easily succumb to damage, so it’s equally important to use the best repair method to allow them to stand the test of time. PolyRenewal™ polyurethane injections exclusive to Tar Heel Basement Systems stand out as the tested and reliable option.

Tar Heel Basement Systems is North Carolina’s trusted concrete lifting professional. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection and learn more about why PolyRenewal™ is our top choice for repairing sunken concrete slabs on your property.

Holly Richards-Purpura

Content Writer

Holly is a Content Writer for Groundworks who has written and edited web content for the foundation services industry for 10 years. With a background in journalism, her passion for the written word runs deep. Holly lives in Columbus, OH, with her husband. Along with educating homeowners, she also has a big heart for the Big Apple.

_{*Disclaimer: “Concrete leveling” means the process by which cracked, uneven concrete is stabilized, and in many cases lifted, by means of PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam. Tar Heel Basement Systems does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.}