Over time, the concrete foundation under your home or in your basement can begin sinking. A homeowner’s nightmare, a sunken foundation has a serious impact on the structural integrity of your home. Repair approaches vary from contractor to contractor, with slab jacking being a proven solution. Slab jacking is a concrete-raising system that can undo problems that stem from poor installations and save your home from collapse.

Slab Jacking FAQ

What is slab jacking?

Slab jacking, also called concrete lifting and mud jacking, is a foundation repair approach that lifts sunken concrete back into place. It has been successfully used to restore homes, older commercial buildings, and municipal structures since the early 20th century.

How does slab jacking work?

During slab jacking, foundation stabilization contractors pump a substance—usually a mixture of sand, clay, and limestone or polyurethane foam—through porous concrete to “push” it upward and back into place. Contractors first drill holes into your sinking foundation and then inject the mixture or foam to fill the empty pockets beneath it. It’s a minimally invasive process that has lasting results.

Why not pour new concrete?

You may wonder if pouring a new layer of concrete over a sunken foundation is a viable solution to their problem. While this technique will work, it’s significantly more expensive than slab jacking. If a remove-and-replace approach is taken, you’ll also have to pay more and deal with down time during demo and construction. Slab jacking can be performed as soon as holes are drilled.

Will slab jacking prevent future sinking?

With proper foundation care, slab jacking is a lasting solution. You’ll need to stick to a maintenance plan that immediately addresses minor cracks in your foundation and keeps your basement dry. Don’t let the ground around your foundation become oversaturated, and install a drainage system to drive standing water away. If you have trees, install a root barrier, and schedule a home inspection each year.

 

If you’re facing foundation issues, the team at Hydra-Ject, of Lebanon, OH, can help. They offer a variety of foundation repair services, including slab jacking, crack injections, and brick sealing. With over 20 years of experience, they bring skill and expertise to every job they tackle. Rely on their superior craftsmanship to get the lasting results you need. Call (513) 615-5456 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about their company.