Mudjacking, also known as slab jacking or concrete raising, is a popular method of raising sunken or uneven concrete slabs. Although mudjacking can be a viable solution in certain circumstances, it is often better to replace concrete instead of mudjacking. In this blog post, we will discuss why you should replace your concrete instead of mudjacking it.
Mudjacking, also known as slab jacking or concrete jacking, is a process of raising sunken concrete by pumping a cement slurry underneath it. This is typically used to fix driveways, sidewalks, patios and more. While this can be an effective way to repair the problem of sunken concrete, there are several dangers associated with mudjacking.
First, mudjacking can lead to additional settling over time. If the slurry is not evenly distributed, the area can sink again shortly after being raised. Additionally, if the pressure of the slurry is too great, it can create voids in the underlying soil and cause additional settling.
Another danger associated with mudjacking is that it requires holes to be drilled in the existing slab. This can weaken the slab and make it prone to cracking or breaking in the future. In some cases, this weakening can cause the slab to settle more quickly than before.
Finally, mudjacking does not address any underlying structural problems that may have caused the sinking in the first place. The weight of vehicles and other heavy objects can cause soil compression and ultimately cause the concrete to settle. Mudjacking does not address this issue, so it could continue to cause problems with the surface.
When it comes to concrete repair, replacing your concrete is often the better option than mudjacking. The primary advantage of replacing concrete is that it eliminates any potential damage to the underlying soil that can occur during mudjacking. Additionally, when replacing concrete, you are not just repairing a problem but taking preventative action to ensure that the same issue doesn’t occur in the future.
Replacing concrete also offers several advantages over mudjacking when it comes to the aesthetic value of your property. For example, when you replace concrete, you can choose to use a material with more appealing colors and textures, such as stamped concrete or pavers. This will make your property look more attractive and modern.
Another advantage of replacing concrete is that it is a more reliable method of repair than mudjacking. Since mudjacking involves pumping a mixture of sand and cement into the ground, it is difficult to ensure that the mixture is evenly distributed and will remain in place for a long period of time. With concrete replacement, however, you can be sure that your new surface will stay in place for many years to come.
Finally, replacing concrete offers peace of mind because it is a much safer option than mudjacking. Mudjacking can cause a lot of stress on existing foundations, and there is always a risk of shifting or settling when using this method. When you replace concrete instead, you are ensuring that the surface is properly supported and won’t pose any safety risks.
Replacing concrete is a process that requires careful planning and the right tools. The process starts with the removal of the existing concrete. This can be done by jackhammering or saw cutting, depending on the size of the area and what tools are available.
Once the concrete has been removed, the area should be inspected for any damage to the subbase material. Any repairs should be made prior to laying the new concrete.
The next step in the process is to prepare the subbase by tamping and leveling the area. This will create a solid foundation for the new concrete to rest on.
Once the subbase is ready, a form is created to hold the concrete in place. The form should be checked for accuracy and then filled with concrete using a hand trowel or machine. Once the concrete is in place, it should be leveled and smoothed using a screed board and a float.
Finally, the new concrete should be cured and allowed to set before any foot traffic or machinery is allowed on it.
Replacing concrete may seem like an intimidating task, but with careful planning and the right tools, it can be completed with relative ease. By replacing your concrete instead of mudjacking, you will ensure that your foundation remains stable and secure for many years to come.
When considering the cost of replacing your concrete, it’s important to take into account both the materials and labor associated with the project. The price for replacement will depend on several factors such as the size of the area, the complexity of the project, the type of material being used, and any additional features like decorative borders or patterned concrete. On average, you can expect to pay between $14 and $20 a square foot for replacement, demolition, and disposal.
In comparison, mudjacking is typically less expensive because it does not require as much work. Mudjacking involves drilling holes in the slab and pumping a concrete mixture under it. Although mudjacking can be an effective solution for some concrete repair issues, it often has a limited lifespan. This means that you may end up having to replace the concrete after a few years, which could end up costing more than if you had replaced it from the start.
If you are looking for a longer-term solution for your sunken concrete, then replacing it is likely your best option. The cost may be higher than mudjacking in the short-term but it could save you money in the long-term by avoiding costly repairs down the road. If you are now considering replacing your concrete contact us.
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