Mudjacking is the process of lifting a building, driveway, or any object by pumping concrete (known as mud to people who work with it) underneath the item to be lifted. Different types of concrete can be used. Usually, a low strength concrete is used.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Mudjacking
Advantages of Mudjacking:
- It is relatively inexpensive
- The job is fast to complete
Disadvantages of Mudjacking:
- It does not come with a warranty
- Potential to fill your sewer lines with concrete
- Sometimes the concrete emerges in unexpected places, such as the inside of a wall, where there are unidentified holes in a slab
- Most importantly, mudjacking leaves your foundation sitting on the ground. If the ground moves, so will your foundation.
When Should Mudjacking Be Used
At Advanced we use mudjacking as a convenient and inexpensive way to lift pool decks, patios, driveways and other items made of concrete that is 3 to 6 inches thick. Mudjacking is cheaper than pouring new concrete and can often be completed in a day or two.
On foundations mudjacking is used when a foundation is so weak that piers or pilings cannot be installed. Mudjacking should not be used under a foundation if there is a chance that the soils under the mud will expand. If soils under injected mud or concrete expand, the soils will push up on the injected material and move the overlying house.
Is There A Warranty
Because mudjacking relies on the underlying soils to support whatever has been lifted, there is no guaranty no warranty.
FAQ
Q: Can I use mudjacking when I have a foundation with big cracks?
A: No. If you pump concrete under a slab under pressure, it will push up through cracks in your slab and create a terrible mess.
Q: If my pool has settled, can I mudjack it?
A: Probably not. Pools are so deep in the ground that mudjacking often does not work. Pools can be lifted with polyurethane injection.