When concrete surfaces start to sink, crack or become uneven, homeowners often ask the same question: What’s the best way to fix it? At Mid Michigan Concrete Lifting, we offer modern, long-lasting solutions that restore your concrete quickly and efficiently. Today, we’re breaking down the key differences between two popular methods—mudjacking and polyurethane foam injection—so you can make an informed choice for your home.
What is Mudjacking?
Mudjacking is the traditional method of concrete levelling. It involves drilling large holes into the affected slab and pumping a heavy mixture of cement, soil and water (known as “slurry”) beneath it. As the slurry fills gaps and voids, it raises the concrete back into place. While this approach has been used for decades, it comes with a few notable drawbacks.
Limitations of Mudjacking
The biggest downside to mudjacking is its weight. The slurry mix is heavy, and over time it can cause additional settling in unstable soil. The material is also prone to shrinking and washing out, which means the fix may not last as long. Large drill holes, slow cure times and messy clean-up can add to the inconvenience.
Why Polyurethane Foam is a Better Alternative
Polyurethane foam lifting uses a lightweight, expanding foam that is injected through small holes drilled into the concrete surface. The foam expands to fill voids, lifts the slab and hardens within minutes—often allowing for same-day use of the surface.
This method is more precise, less invasive and significantly lighter than mudjacking. It also creates a waterproof barrier that helps protect the area from future erosion. At Mid Michigan Concrete Lifting, we specialize in polyurethane foam lifting because it offers long-term stability without the drawbacks of older methods.
Benefits of Foam Lifting Over Mudjacking
- Smaller holes: Foam only requires ½-inch injection holes compared to mudjacking’s 1- to 2-inch holes.
- Faster results: Foam cures in as little as 15 minutes; mudjacking can take hours or days to set.
- Longer-lasting: Foam resists water infiltration and breakdown, offering superior durability.
- Cleaner and lighter: Foam lifting leaves less mess and puts minimal pressure on soil.
Which Method is Right for You? If your concrete is uneven, cracked or sinking, foam lifting is typically the most efficient and effective choice—especially for driveways, sidewalks, patios and garage floors. It’s also ideal for homeowners who want a fast, clean repair that doesn’t disrupt their yard or schedule.
Our team has seen firsthand how outdated methods like mudjacking can fall short in Michigan’s soil conditions. That’s why we proudly use polyurethane foam for all our concrete lifting services across the region. The results speak for themselves.
Concrete Lifting Services Michigan Homeowners Can Count On
Not sure what type of repair your home needs? Contact us for a free quote and site assessment. We’ll walk you through the options and help you decide the best fix based on your budget, timeline and long-term goals.
