Never mind the technical names or jargon here — both methods have the same goal of filling voids and adding additional support under concrete slabs.
There are a variety of reasons that concrete sinks or settles. Here are the most common:
In any case, if the concrete begins to tilt or sink, it can cause major slab issues, unwanted water runoff, and even trip hazards.
By pumping a soil/cement mixture (mudjacking) or Polyurethane Foam (foam injection) under pressure into the desired area, we can fill cavities beneath slabs. By increasing pumping pressure, driveways, patios, sidewalks, and floor slabs can be raised.
Mudjacking is accomplished by utilizing special equipment to pump grout beneath the slab. Our equipment is specially designed for this work. Our pumps deliver grout at a slow continuous rate and they are operated by remote control so the slab can be raised precisely. Standard concrete pumps should never be used for work of this nature, as severe damage to the slab could occur due to uncontrolled injection.
Foam injection is accomplished by utilizing sophisticated computerized pumping equipment that mixes and delivers polyurethane resins that expand to fill voids and raise the slab. Various densities of foam can be pumped depending if the application is intended to fill voids or raise the concrete. The primary differences between foam injection and mudjacking are neater and faster installation of the foam as compared to mudjacking. The downside to these advantages are the chemicals and equipment needed to dispense them are much higher in cost than those needed for mudjacking applications.
These processes could be both a more cost-effective and efficient alternative to simply replacing concrete. They can be completed faster without disturbing nearby landscapes or plants. Lastly, they more friendly for the environment too, as they allow the concrete to be salvaged instead of demolished.
If these processes have you thinking about the current state of your home’s concrete floor slab or adjacent flatwork, it may be time you reach out and give us a call!
