Frequently Asked Question

What is Slab Jacking?

Concrete leveling / Slab Jacking / Mud Jacking / Concrete Lifting is the process of pumping mud under the slab to bring it back up to original height. No matter which term is used, it is all the same process.

What can be Slab Jacked?

All concrete can be Slab Jacked. Examples include driveways, steps, patios, pools, basement floors, garage floors, sidewalks, grain bins, city streets, boat ramps, parking lots, interior floors, loading docks, runways, highways, schools, generator pads, warehouse floors, and more. There may be a few circumstances when concrete cannot be Slab Jacked, and it’s best to get an estimate to find out. Also, if the concrete is severely broken up, it is usually better to have it replaced than Slab Jacked.

How much money will I save by Slab Jacking?

Slab jacking is approx 1/2 – 1/3 the cost of concrete replacement. You can save up to 70% of removal and replacement.

How long does Slab Jacking take?

Average Slab Jacking jobs usually take 1 – 4 hours. Larger jobs take longer, but usually are completed in only 1 day.

How long will it take to get my work done?

Once the bid is accepted, it may take 1-4 weeks depending on the current work load. However, if this is something that needs to be done ASAP, it can be scheduled in 1-2 days. Average mud jacking jobs usually take a couple of hours. Larger jobs take longer, but usually not more than 1 day.

How much room do you need to work?

It depends on the situation. Our trucks stay out on the street and our pumper units fit through most gates. If the project requires it, we can pump via slick line and reach interior areas or other hard to reach areas that our pumpers can not reach.

Why not replace?

Slab Jacking is just a less expensive alternative to your concrete issues. It’s environmentally friendly and OUR MIX still allows your concrete to be recycled down the road.

How long will Slab Jacking last?

This process can last many years, even decades, because our product is crushed rock. It will not settle or deteriorate over time. However, if the ground is not 100% compacted or there continues to be soil washed out under the product, this may re-occur. If it does, these slabs can be lifted back into place again using the same holes.

How does Slab Jacking compare in cost to other repair or replacement options?

Mud jacking is approx – 1/3 the cost of concrete replacement and is environmentally friendly.

When can’t you Slab Jack?

Retaining walls too close to the area can cause an issue and may not be able to be Slab Jacked. Areas where structural components are attached can cause issues as well. Every situation is different, and should be looked at by a professional to determine if this process will work for your situation.

Is there any maintenance needed?

Yes, caulking joints and drainage is a large factor. All joints must be caulked after, in order to comply with our 2 year warranty.

How do rodents create problems?

Rodents, such as moles or groundhogs, will tunnel under concrete slabs or next to foundations. When water runs down through these holes, it can cause wash outs or ground settlement.

When can we drive on the driveway?

Vehicle traffic 4-6 hours after project completion for average size vehicles. No Trucks for 24 hours.

Will my concrete crack?

Yes, all concrete can crack, especially lifting sunken slabs up into place. When the concrete sinks, it will get a stress crack on the bottom, but will not necessarily be visible. When the slab is then raised, the pressure will release and the crack will show on the top. These cracks are not caused by the Slab Jacking but are just made more apparent when raised. There can be cases where Slab Jacking will crack the concrete, if the correct process is not used.

Will my yard or sprinkler heads be damaged?

Sprinkler heads do not get damaged. Yards, if dry, have no damage what-so-ever. If sprinklers are left on or the ground is soft, some ruts may occur from the hydraulic pump. Weak sprinklers line run directly in the concrete or directly under may burst from the movement. Correctly installed lines are never in either location, though.

Can I expect to see any movement after the work is done?

Yes, you might see a little movement during the curing process. However, if you see movement after the curing period, then it is possible that the ground was not properly compacted or there was some other issue.

Does your work make a lot of noise?

Some noise will occur during the process. However, it is usually minimal. A standard concrete truck and a mud jacking pump make noise, but nothing that will disturb your family or neighbors.

Does your work make a lot of dust or debris?

Our work creates a minimal amount of dust. We use a vacuum pump to reduce the amount of dust and debris caused by drilling into the concrete.

Will the patched holes match my existing concrete?

The holes will be filled with a quick-dry concrete mixture. It will match the color of the existing concrete but may be slightly off due to new concrete vs old concrete.

Why does Concrete Sink?

The most common cause of sinking concrete is a void under the slab. The ground under concrete slabs can shift or settle due to a variety of factors including erosion, compaction issues, or the presence of voids caused by natural processes or poor construction practices.

Are there any problems associated with Slab Jacking?

The main issues associated with Slab Jacking are related to the potential for future settlement and the need for proper compaction of the underlying soil. If not done correctly, the concrete could sink again or new issues could arise.

How does Slab Jacking work?

Slab Jacking works by injecting a slurry mixture beneath the concrete slab. The slurry fills voids, lifts the slab to its original position, and then cures to support the weight of the slab.

How long has Slab Jacking been in existence?

Slab Jacking has been in existence for several decades. The process has evolved over time with advancements in technology and materials to improve its effectiveness and efficiency.

What are the benefits of Slab Jacking over replacement?

Slab Jacking is a cost-effective, quick, and environmentally friendly alternative to concrete replacement. It preserves the existing slab and minimizes waste compared to removing and replacing concrete.

What is a “Void”?

A “void” refers to an empty space or gap under the concrete slab caused by factors like erosion, settlement, or poor construction. Slab Jacking aims to fill these voids and lift the slab back into place.

Can any concrete slab or block be raised or leveled?

Most concrete slabs and blocks can be raised or leveled using Slab Jacking. However, there are exceptions based on the condition of the concrete and underlying soil.

Can Concrete Slabs be lowered?

Concrete slabs can be lowered, but it is less common than raising them. Special techniques and equipment are required for lowering slabs, and it is usually done for specific situations.

My front steps have sunken, and there is a gap at the top. Can they be raised?

Yes, sunken front steps can often be raised using Slab Jacking. The process will lift the steps back into place and fill any gaps that have formed.

Tree roots have lifted my sidewalk. Can it be leveled?

Yes, tree roots can cause sidewalks to lift, and Slab Jacking can be used to level the sidewalk. It may also be necessary to address the tree roots to prevent future issues.

Will the holes used in Slab Jacking be a different color than our existing cement?

The holes will be filled with a concrete mixture that may be slightly different in color from the existing cement. Over time, the new concrete will blend in more with the old.

How and when is ‘grinding’ used?

Grinding is used to level out high spots or uneven surfaces on concrete. It is typically done after Slab Jacking to smooth out any discrepancies.

How many holes will there be?

The number of holes required for Slab Jacking depends on the size and condition of the slab. Typically, a few small holes are drilled to inject the slurry mixture.

What makes your mixture (slurry) better than anyone else’s?

Our slurry mixture is made from high-quality materials that provide better support and durability for the concrete slab. Our proprietary formula ensures a strong and long-lasting lift.

How long does the concrete slurry take to dry and how do you fill the holes?

The concrete slurry dries relatively quickly, usually within a few hours. After the slurry has cured, the holes are filled with a quick-drying concrete mixture.

What effect does it have on my existing landscaping?

Landscaping may be slightly disturbed during the process, but we take care to minimize damage and restore the area as much as possible.

What is Mud Filling walls?

Mud Filling walls is a process where a slurry mixture is used to fill gaps and level walls. It is similar to Slab Jacking but is applied to vertical surfaces.

What causes slabs to sink or become void?

Slabs can sink or become void due to factors such as soil erosion, improper compaction, or the presence of voids beneath the slab. Identifying the cause helps in effectively addressing the issue.

Does having something slabjacked mean there were structural problems?

Not necessarily. Slab Jacking is often used for routine maintenance or to address minor issues rather than major structural problems.

How can I prevent my slab from becoming void or sinking again?

Proper drainage, regular maintenance, and addressing soil compaction issues can help prevent slabs from becoming void or sinking again.

Are Slab jackers licensed?

In many areas, Slab Jackers are required to be licensed. It’s important to check local regulations and ensure that the professionals you hire are properly licensed and insured.

Is a Building Permit required?

Building permits may be required for Slab Jacking projects depending on local regulations. It’s best to check with your local building authority to determine if a permit is needed.