Concrete is the second-most used substance on Earth, only surpassed by water.
While it’s long-lasting, it doesn’t stay in good condition forever. Aged concrete is prone to all sorts of damage, making it both an eyesore and a safety issue.
Mudjacking and polyurethane injections are two of the most common concrete repair methods in use today. They have a similar purpose of repairing and leveling old or damaged concrete.
Despite their similarities, it’s important to know what sets these two methods apart to choose the best method for your project.
Read our guide to understand the differences between mudjacking and polyurethane concrete raising and how to choose the best method for your project.
Mudjacking
Mudjacking is also known as concrete leveling, pressure grouting, and slab grouting.
Sand, cement, and other materials combine to make a mixture known as a slurry. This mixture is then pumped into holes drilled into the concrete to raise and level it.
Mudjacking is best for concrete that’s in good condition but is no longer level. It works for slabs, driveways, porches, walkways, decks, steps, and more.
There are some projects where mudjacking isn’t the best choice. It won’t work for slabs that are heavy or load-bearing because it doesn’t have enough power to move them without causing damage. It can also cause more problems for severely damaged concrete because it can’t fill every hole and may lead to sinking over time.
Also, if the soil below the concrete is not able to support additional weight – mudjacking materiel weighs around 100 lbs per cubic foot, then the concrete slab may sink again over time.
Lastly, the sand and mortar used in mud jacking is not water proof materiel and can easily erode away over time if water is draining along the sides and underneath the slab. So this process in a area that is going to be exposed to a lot of water is not ideal.
You can learn more about this check out more problems with mudjacking.
Polyurethane Foam Raising
Polyurethane concrete lifting, a.k.a. PolyLift or Polyjacking uses high-density geo-technical expanding foam to raise and stabilize concrete slabs. The material and equipment is similar to what is used in spray foam insulation however the foam used for lifting concrete is a lot stronger.
The first step in a polyurethane injection repair project is to drill penny sized holes. The high-density polyurethane foam is the spray through the holes and will begin to fill all the voids below the concrete.
The foam can expands up to 7 feet at each inject hole. It raises the concrete while stabilizing it and filling any gaps between the concrete and the soil.
Polyurethane concrete raising works best for large, heavy, or sensitive concrete slabs. It’s also perfect for concrete that needs to return the service quickly like roadways thanks to its quick drying time.
The benefit of using polyurethane over “mud” or sand/cement is that it will not breakdown overtime. This makes the repair a long lasting solution.
For more information, check out all the steps of the polyurethane process.
PolyLifting vs. Mudjacking
Weighing the pros and cons of each concrete repair method is the best way to decide which is best for you.
Mudjacking has some advantages over polyurethane concrete raising. It can be cheaper and easier to control.
At the same time, mudjacking uses heavier materials, and requires more cleanup. There are more holes that are large enough for weeds to grow through them. Water can also get in, leading to shifting slabs and further damage and settling.
Foam injections cure in 15 minutes compared to a full day for mudjacking. It’s less invasive because it requires smaller and fewer drilling holes. It’s stronger, doesn’t retain moisture or pollute the environment, and can reach areas that are inaccessible to mudjacking equipment.
Despite these benefits, you may be left wondering how long does foam jacking last? While mudjacking usually lasts 2-5 years, polyurethane can last much longer if properly maintained.
Check here for more information on polyurethane vs. mudjacking repairs.
Why Polyurethane Injections Are a Better Value
Mudjacking is the more traditional and less expensive method of concrete repair. A lower initial cost doesn’t always mean a better value.
A polyurethane injection lasts longer than a mudjacking repair job. This means you won’t have to repair the concrete again as often, saving you money over time.
For these reasons and more, you should consider a polyurethane injection over mudjacking. It’ll give you a better value for your money and a longer-lasting, better-looking repair. It’s also a versatile option that can repair concrete anywhere throughout your home.
Why You Should Choose a Polyurethane Injection
Professionals may recommend mudjacking because it’s cheaper and simpler,. It’s not always the best choice for several reasons. Many of the cons of a polyurethane injection don’t seem as problematic when compared with its positive aspects.
Polyurethane injections are more expensive than mudjacking but longer-lasting. This can lead to savings over time as it doesn’t need to be redone as often.
You also get a much quicker, more efficient job for your money when choosing polyurethane concrete raising. Your project will be done in no time thanks to benefits like fewer drill holes and shorter drying times.
Polyurethane injections can also be used on a larger range of projects.
The foam has enough power to lift large slabs. It’s easier to control and won’t cause as much damage to sensitive concrete. Polyurethane concrete raising equipment can also reach smaller spots than large mudjacking equipment.
Where to Get a Polyurethane Injection
There are several ways to repair concrete. The most traditional method is to replace every slab, but this can be a long, expensive process. That’s why there are now better alternatives for the modern homeowner.
Mudjacking is cheaper and faster than a full replacement but has several disadvantages like long drying time and the potential for additional damage.
Polyurethane concrete raising leads to a longer-lasting and quicker repair, and it can reach more areas than mudjacking. It’s a better value for your money and the best choice for almost all projects.
Concrete repair can be a DIY project, but hiring a professional will give you the best, most long-lasting results. We’ll use a polyurethane injection to keep all your home’s concrete in pristine condition.
Check out our wide range of services and contact us for more information. Concrete Hero services most of the northwest suburbs such as Arlington Heights concrete repair and far west suburbs such as Naperville concrete raising services.
