When your concrete surfaces start to sink or shift, it’s not just an eyesore—it can be a safety hazard. Uneven sidewalks, slanted driveways, or sunken patios can lead to trips, water pooling, and structural damage. Fortunately, concrete leveling offers a solution. But the question remains: which method is best—foam injection or mudjacking? At Polyco Spray Foam, the Concrete Lifting Experts in Louisiana, we specialize in advanced techniques to restore your concrete efficiently and effectively. Let’s explore both methods and help you decide what’s right for your property.
Understanding the Basics of Concrete Leveling
Concrete leveling, also known as slab lifting or slab jacking, is a process used to raise and stabilize sunken concrete. This is done by injecting a material beneath the surface to fill the gaps and lift the slab back to its original position. The two most common methods are mudjacking, which uses a cement-based slurry, and polyurethane foam injection, which relies on expanding foam. Both aim to achieve the same result, but they differ significantly in materials, process, and performance.
What Is Mudjacking?
Mudjacking is a traditional technique that’s been used for decades. It involves drilling large holes—typically around 1.5 inches in diameter—into the concrete slab. A mixture of water, soil, and cement (called “slurry”) is then pumped into the voids beneath the slab, lifting it back into place.
While mudjacking can be effective in certain applications, it has its downsides. The material used is heavy and can cause additional settling over time. It also takes longer to cure, meaning you may have to wait before using the surface. Additionally, because of the larger holes required, it can leave more visible scarring on the concrete surface.
What Is Foam Injection?
Foam injection, also known as polyurethane concrete lifting, is a more modern and innovative solution. In this method, small holes—usually less than 5/8 inch—are drilled into the slab, and a two-part polyurethane foam is injected underneath. As the foam expands, it fills voids, compresses loose soil, and gently lifts the concrete with incredible precision.
This method is lighter, faster, and more efficient than mudjacking. The foam sets quickly, often within 15 minutes, and it’s water-resistant, which helps prevent future erosion and soil instability. Since the holes are smaller and less invasive, the finished repair is also more aesthetically pleasing.
Comparing the Two Methods
When evaluating foam vs. mudjacking, it’s essential to look at several key factors:
- Weight of Material: Foam is significantly lighter than the cement slurry used in mudjacking. This means less stress on the underlying soil and a lower chance of future settling.
- Curing Time: Polyurethane foam sets within minutes, allowing for quicker use of the area. Mudjacking requires hours—or even days—to fully cure.
- Durability: Foam is more resistant to moisture infiltration and soil movement. Over time, this leads to longer-lasting results, especially in areas with drainage or erosion issues.
- Precision: Foam provides more controlled lifting, which reduces the risk of overcorrection or cracking.
- Aesthetic Impact: Smaller drill holes in foam injection leave less noticeable marks on your surface.
While mudjacking might be a more economical short-term fix, polyurethane foam injection offers greater value and durability over time—especially when performed by experienced professionals like the Concrete Lifting Experts in Louisiana.
Why Louisiana Homeowners Choose Foam Injection
Given Louisiana’s unique soil conditions and high humidity, foam injection is the superior choice for most residential and commercial properties. The expansive clay soils found throughout the region are prone to shifting, making lightweight, moisture-resistant foam the best long-term solution. At Polyco Spray Foam, we’ve helped countless homeowners and business owners stabilize their concrete foundations with lasting results. Our team is trained in the latest techniques and uses top-tier materials to ensure precision and performance in every job.
Choose the Right Method with the Right Team
When it comes to concrete leveling, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But for most situations—especially in Louisiana’s climate—foam injection stands out as the smarter, more reliable choice. It’s faster, cleaner, longer-lasting, and more effective at addressing the root causes of sunken concrete.
If you’re dealing with uneven surfaces around your home or business, trust the Concrete Lifting Experts in Louisiana at Polyco Spray Foam. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s lift your concrete with confidence.
