To the average homeowner, mudjacking and sand jacking may sound quite similar. In reality, these two methods of concrete repair yield vastly different results. Here’s what you can expect from each process, along with some tips for choosing the right solution for your sinking or cracked concrete surface.
How Sand Jacking Works
Sand jacking is performed by first lifting the sinking concrete using braces, pipes and jacks. If the concrete slab is readily accessible on both sides, the contractor will not drill any holes into the top. If not, they will usually have to drill holes to help with the process. Once the slab is raised, the contractor will blow limestone sand underneath the slab in an attempt to help shore it up. If holes were drilled, they are usually patched with concrete afterward.
It all sounds pretty straightforward, but there are some things to consider. Although many contractors advertise that their sand is compacted, they generally don’t use any moisture to complete the job. No matter what you hear, sand cannot be fully compacted without some amount of moisture. Thus, there’s always a risk of future shifting as the sand settles.
How Is Mudjacking Different?
A cost-effective, time-tested concrete restoration solution, mudjacking is a very reliable way to restore settling concrete to its original position. This is why it has become one of the most popular options for property owners in need of timely repairs that won’t exceed their limited budgets.
The process is effective but simple: After drilling a small hole into the sinking concrete, the contractor injects a wet slurry filler beneath the surface to fill up problematic gaps. As the gaps are filled, the slurry elevates the concrete surface until it sits flush with the surrounding ground-level surface. In a matter of hours, the slurry dries, resulting in a durable underlying surface that won’t shift over time.
In addition to being one of the most cost-effective ways to restore sinking concrete, mudjacking offers several key benefits. For one, it’s essentially non-invasive, meaning it won’t require any real digging or big, disruptive machinery. Mudjacking can be completed with almost no disturbance to a home, household or surrounding neighbors.
Mudjacking also costs about 60% less than complete concrete replacement, making it a very nice option for cost-conscious property owners. It’s also an efficient, fast way to restore failing concrete. The entire mudjacking process can usually be completed in just one day, often within a few hours.
Which Method Is Right for You?
When it comes to choosing a concrete repair method, you want to invest in a solution that will last. You don’t want a quick fix that will result in more repair costs down the line. This is why mudjacking is almost always the best option.
Erosion due to shifting and rain can quickly ruin even the best sand-jacking job. Just imagine standing on a dry beach and think about how your feet shift beneath you. Now, imagine the sand washing out from under your feet as the tide rolls in. It doesn’t take much imagination to understand why sand alone is not a reliable way to prevent concrete slabs from sinking. Relying on soil and sand is what caused the damage in the first place. Why would you expect things to be any different by making the same mistake again?
Mudjacking is a proven solution that dramatically lowers your risk of repeat sinking. This solution fills the underlying voids, not with unstable sand, but with a solid material that won’t wash away when it rains. The lightweight slurry is pumped underneath your slab where it effectively fills any and every gap, ultimately hardening into a dense foundation material that stays stable over time.
For more than two full decades, AAA Concrete Raising has served Colorado businesses and homeowners all throughout the Denver metro area. Our concrete raising company brings the vaunted “monster” truck of the industry to each and every job. This innovative equipment eliminates the need for any type of loud, awkward machinery, ensuring a fast, efficient job that never disrupts the neighborhood. Contact our team for all your concrete restoration needs.
