PolyLevel vs Mudjacking: Which Solution is Best for Sunken Concrete?

Your concrete slabs are sinking...so now what? Some of the most difficult decisions, that require a lot of research, are ones involving your home. That is why we make it easier by providing you with all of the information you need on the two most popular ways of repairing unleveled concrete...PolyLevel and Mudjacking. In this blog, we will be comparing both methods and deciding which is more efficient, visually appealing, cost-effective, durable, and sustainable. 

Background Information

PolyLevel consists of a polyurethane foam formula designed to expand once injected underneath settling slabs. PolyLevel can expand up to 25-35 times its original size and hardens within 10-15 seconds (Technical).

Mudjacking consists of a slurry mixture containing water, sand, soil, or cement. It can take up to several hours to dry, depending on the weather conditions and the amount of slurry used to lift the slab.

Efficiency 

When deciding which is more efficient, we are considering which method would contain the least number of resources, effort, and waste. Let's dive into its installation process. 

PolyLevel Installation

Small 3/8-inch holes are drilled into the settling slab, and injection ports are placed into the holes. The crew then uses the injection gun, which is connected to a two-part polyurethane foam. Both parts are not mixed until it reaches the tip of the injection gun (Technical). As PolyLevel is injected beneath the slab, it quickly expands, lifting the settling slab. When the lift is complete, the holes are patched with cement. 

Mudjacking Installation

2-inch holes are drilled into the slab, and a slurry mixture, containing water, sand, and soil is created on-site. Once this has been created, the mixture is then hydraulically pumped through the drilled holes causing the slab to slowly lift. Once lifted, the holes are patched with cement. Another thing to consider is that mudjacking typically produces extra waste as it is very common to make too much of the mixture. However, PolyLevel is unlikely to have excess waste, because the foam does not expand and harden unless injected beneath the slab. Overall, PolyLevel requires fewer resources, allows for quicker application, and produces less waste. 

Visual Appearance 

When it comes to aesthetics, homeowners want a clean minimal disruption to their settling concrete. During the installation process, PolyLevel uses small 3/8" holes, which are barely noticeable once patched. However, mudjacking uses 2" holes, which can leave larger and more visible patches when the job is complete. With smaller holes and a more discreet process, PolyLevel ensures that work on your concrete slabs are undetectable. 

Cost-Effectiveness

Mudjacking is cheaper, making it a tempting option for homeowners on a budget. However, because it is less durable, it may need to be repaired multiple times, adding up costs in the long run. PolyLevel offers long-term value. It cures quickly, requires minimal maintenance, and comes with our 3-year warranty, so homeowners can save on repair costs over time. 

Durability and Longevity

PolyLevel is specifically engineered to be waterproof, highly durable, and resistant to harsh weather conditions. It can withstand shifting soils, making it a long-lasting solution for concrete lifting. Mudjacking is only effective short term as the slurry mix adds a lot of weight to the work area versus the lightweight foam of PolyLevel. Also, the mixture can break down over time, especially if the supporting soils continue to shift. Additionally, heavy rainfall can lead to re-sinking of the slab. 

Sustainability 

PolyLevel requires less material and because there's minimal waste, the environmental impact is low. It is also less disruptive and does not require large quantities of water and soil. Since the mudjacking mixture is made on-site, it is extremely common to make too much, which leads to more waste and excess materials. 

PolyLevel and Mudjacking both have their advantages and disadvantages. However, when we consider overall efficiency, visual appearance, cost-effectiveness, durability, and sustainability, PolyLevel is far superior. 

American Waterworks is a trusted family-owned company with over 35 years of experience in basement waterproofing, foundation repair, crawl space encapsulation, radon mitigation, and concrete lifting and leveling. Our expertise in concrete lifting will ensure your sinking slabs will remain level and secure. Click HERE and schedule your FREE no-obligation estimate and meet with one of our trained professionals to learn how we can help with your sunken concrete!

Resources

Technical information. (n.d.). PolyLevel. https://www.polylevel.com/technical-information.html