What is Mudjacking?
Mudjacking is the process of raising and leveling sunken or settled concrete to its original position. For example, sidewalks, driveways, patios, and garage floors can become cracked and unleveled due to factors such as soil erosion and natural settling. To raise the existing concrete, we drill a series of 1 1/2 inch diameter holes around the fissures and then pump a cement slurry material beneath the settled concrete slab. This process allows us to position the raised concrete correctly and add tinted patching material via the drilled holes. Once the patch has hardened, the leveled and realigned concrete will be as stable as the other surrounding slabs. The great thing about mudjacking, you can use the mudjacked area as soon as the patches are dry, usually in a few hours.
For more information please visit our Mudjacking Services page.
Does Thiermann Mudjacking use Polyurethane Foam?
THIERMANN MUDJACKING DOES NOT USE POLYURETHANE FOAM
At Thiermann Mudjacking we do not use polyurethane foam. We are often asked why. The traditional concrete slurry method of mudjacking is tried and true if done correctly. It has been in use for Over 60 years. There is always the temptation to use a newer or “latest and greatest” method when one comes along in any field. We were tempted to change methods, as equipment used for polyurethane is much cheaper and far easier to transport. Before making the transition, we did some research, since we do not have a chemist or environmental expert on staff, we had to rely on government agencies and the industry professionals to reach a decision. Below, please find the statement of facts as provided by the Environmental Protection Agency and other experts. Direct links to these sites have been provided so you can read these findings for yourself. At Thiermann Mudjacking we have no opinion on whether other companies should use this material and method of concrete repair, We Do, However, feel it would be irresponsible of OUR company to switch to this process, given the expert evidence that if may be detrimental to the health and safety of our valued customer and employees.
1. Concrete that has polyurethane attached to it not be accepted at concrete disposed of at toxic waste facility. http://www.blackjackgroutpumps.com the homeowner’s responsibility to take the polyurethane foam from their home.
2. Exposure to its contaminants toluene diisocyanate, methylene chloride, hydro neurotoxins and carcinogens causing cancer in animals http://nepis.epa.gov
3. According to the EPA (www.epa.gov), many potential sources of household pe polyurethane products applied or manufactured in a home, including polyurethane foam
4. Polyurethane (even best foam) breaks down in 10-12 years under normal concrete.
5. Potential links between the use of Polyurethane foam and cancer. Studies can be found here: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1035481/
What type of equipment do you use?
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We do NOT use any heavy rock drills, instead, we use electric drills. This will help prevent concrete from cracking and dust from getting on your house and landscaping.
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All equipment has turf tires. This will prevent marking of lawn.
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We use state of the art equipment.
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We use a CEMENT SLURRY to fill our holes and raise the concrete.
How large are the holes you drill?
We drill 1 1/2″ (diameter) holes when we perform mudjacking services.
Can most concrete be raised?
Yes! Almost all concrete can be raised.
Will I be able to use the area immediately?
Yes! Approximately a few hours after mudjacking services, you will be able to use the area.
Is this process environmentally friendly?
Yes! The material we use to lift and support the concrete consists of naturally occurring materials. In addition, no concrete is removed and disposed of in a landfill.
Is concrete lifting economical?
Yes! In most instances, the cost of concrete lifting is 30% to 40% the cost of replacement.
Are there projects that cannot be lifted?
Yes, unfortunately, due to the condition of the concrete and other factors some projects may not be an appropriate fit for mudjacking. This is why it is important to hire someone with the experience we have.