What Is Mud Jacking Concrete?

Mud jacking, also known as slab jacking or concrete leveling, is a repair technique used to lift and level sunken or uneven concrete surfaces, such as driveways, sidewalks, patios, or foundations. It involves injecting a slurry mixture—typically made of water, soil, sand, and cement (sometimes referred to as "mud")—underneath the concrete slab to raise it back to its original position.

How It Works:

1. **Assessment**: A professional identifies the sunken or uneven concrete and determines the cause, such as soil erosion, settling, or poor drainage.

2. **Drilling Holes**: Small holes (typically 1-2 inches in diameter) are drilled into the concrete slab.

3. **Injection**: The slurry mixture is pumped through these holes under the slab using hydraulic pressure. The mixture fills voids, compacts loose soil, and lifts the slab.

4. **Leveling**: The slab is carefully raised to the desired height, ensuring it aligns with surrounding surfaces.

5. **Sealing**: The drilled holes are filled with cement or a patching compound, and the surface is cleaned.

Benefits of Mud Jacking:

- **Cost-Effective**: Cheaper than replacing the entire concrete slab.

- **Quick Process**: Often completed in a few hours with minimal disruption.

- **Durable**: Can last for years if underlying issues (like drainage) are addressed.

- **Eco-Friendly**: Reuses existing concrete, reducing waste.

Limitations:

- **Not Permanent**: If underlying soil issues (e.g., erosion or poor compaction) persist, the slab may sink again.

- **Aesthetic**: Patched holes may be visible, though they can be blended with the surface.

- **Weight**: Adds extra weight to the soil, which may not be ideal in some cases.

- **Not Suitable for All Slabs**: Heavily cracked or structurally damaged concrete may require replacement.

Common Applications:

- Sidewalks and walkways

- Driveways and garage floors

- Patios and pool decks

- Foundation slabs

Mud jacking is often compared to polyurethane foam injection (polyjacking), a similar process that uses lightweight foam instead of a slurry. The choice between the two depends on the project’s needs, soil conditions, and budget.  Foundation Repair of Lincoln is happy to help you choose the right technique for your project.