Concrete Leveling (foam jacking) pros and con vs. mudjacking
Both foam jacking (also known as polyurethane concrete lifting) and mudjacking are methods used to level and raise sunken concrete. Here are some pros and cons of each:
Pros of Foam jacking:
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Lightweight material: Polyurethane foam used in foam jacking is much lighter than the traditional mud used in mudjacking. This means it puts less pressure on the soil beneath the concrete, reducing the likelihood of further sinking or settling.
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Water-resistant: Polyurethane foam is water-resistant, which makes it a good option for concrete that's located near water or areas that get a lot of rainfall.
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Fast-setting: Foam jacking is a quick process that sets within minutes, so you can use your repaired concrete soon after the work is done.
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Smaller injection holes: Because the foam is injected through smaller holes, they're less noticeable and require less concrete patching than mudjacking.
Cons of Foam jacking:
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More expensive: Foam jacking is more expensive than mudjacking because the material used is more expensive.
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Not a DIY job: This is not a job for DIYers, as the equipment used is specialized and requires experience.
Pros of Mudjacking:
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Long-lasting: Mudjacking has been around for decades and has proven to be an effective method of leveling concrete.
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Cost-effective: Mudjacking is less expensive than foam jacking, which makes it a more affordable option for some homeowners.
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Eco-friendly: Mudjacking uses a mixture of water, soil, and cement, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Cons of Mudjacking:
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Heavy material: The mud mixture used in mudjacking is heavier than foam, which means it can potentially cause additional sinking or settling of the concrete.
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Longer curing time: Mudjacking requires a longer curing time before the concrete can be used again.
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Larger injection holes: Mudjacking requires larger injection holes, which means the patching process can be more noticeable and may require more concrete.
In summary, foam jacking is a newer technology that has some advantages over mudjacking, such as being lightweight, water-resistant, and fast-setting. However, it is more expensive and requires specialized equipment. Mudjacking, on the other hand, is a well-established method that is cost-effective and eco-friendly, but it requires a longer curing time and larger injection holes. Ultimately, the choice between the two methods depends on factors such as the location of the concrete, the severity of the sinking, and the homeowner's budget.
