Sunken or uneven concrete can cause trip hazards, drainage issues, and early structural wear. Many property owners want a solution that restores concrete without the expense and mess of tearing it out. Polyurethane concrete raising is a proven way to lift and stabilize existing slabs using expanding foam injected beneath the surface.
How Polyurethane Concrete Raising Works
Polyurethane concrete raising, sometimes called polyjacking, uses a chemical foam injection method to lift sunken slabs. The goal is to raise the concrete back to its original level and fill the voids underneath.
Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Small holes are drilled through the slab.
- Two materials, known as A and B components, are mixed during injection.
- The chemical reaction expands into dense foam, lifting the concrete evenly.
- Once the area is level, the holes are patched and sealed.
This foam expands rapidly and provides a stable, long-lasting base under the concrete. It can support heavy traffic areas like driveways or garage floors once cured.
Key Takeaway: Polyurethane foam expands under the slab to create uniform pressure and lift, allowing us to level the concrete precisely without replacing it.
When Polyurethane Concrete Raising is the Right Solution
This method works best when the concrete slab is still structurally sound and not severely cracked or deteriorated.
Suitable Applications
- Driveways and sidewalks with slight settlement
- Basement or garage slabs that remain intact
- Patios or steps with minor unevenness
It’s especially effective when the slab’s surface is in good shape, but the soil underneath has compacted or washed out. The expanding foam fills these voids and stabilizes the base.
When It’s Not Recommended
Polyurethane concrete raising is case-by-case. In some areas, like older neighborhoods such as Brookside or Waldo, basement slabs can be too thin for this process. These “paper-thin” floors lack the strength to handle the expansion pressure from the foam. Severely cracked or broken concrete may also need full replacement instead of lifting.
Pro Tip: Always have a professional evaluate the condition of the slab first. Our team checks slab thickness, cracks, and soil stability before recommending any lifting method.
Need expert help with concrete lifting? Contact Olson Foundation Repair for a free consultation. Our team can evaluate your slab and determine if polyjacking is the right solution for your home.
Polyjacking vs. Mudjacking
Both polyjacking and mudjacking aim to lift sunken concrete, but they use different materials and produce very different results.
Material Difference
Polyjacking uses two liquid materials, an A and a B component, that react chemically to create an expanding foam. Mudjacking, on the other hand, uses a heavy cement or mud-based slurry that fills the space beneath the slab.
Because the foam is lightweight and consistent, it provides a more uniform lift and puts less pressure on the soil. The heavier mudjacking mixture can sometimes lead to future settlement as the soil compresses again.
Consistency and Results
Mudjacking mixtures can vary in quality. If overmixed with water or made with chunky aggregates, the material may not distribute evenly. This inconsistency can lead to uneven lifting or shorter-lasting results.
Our experience has shown that polyurethane concrete raising delivers cleaner, more predictable outcomes. The foam mixes consistently and creates a strong bond beneath the slab, ensuring it stays level for years.
Key Takeaway: Polyjacking provides more control and precision than traditional mudjacking, resulting in smoother surfaces and longer-lasting performance.
Why Homeowners Prefer Polyurethane Concrete Raising
Homeowners appreciate that polyurethane concrete raising is efficient, clean, and minimally invasive. There’s no need for large equipment, and the process doesn’t disrupt the surrounding landscape.
- Minimal Downtime: Surfaces can be used soon after completion.
- Smaller Holes: Injection holes are much smaller than mudjacking holes.
- Lightweight Material: Reduces stress on weak soil and prevents resettling.
Final Thoughts
Polyurethane concrete raising offers a reliable, long-term fix for uneven slabs that don’t need full replacement. It’s ideal for homeowners who want a precise, clean, and lasting repair solution.
At Olson Foundation Repair, we use proven polyjacking methods that provide consistent results across driveways, patios, sidewalks, and basement floors.
Ready to restore your concrete? Contact Olson Foundation Repair today for a free inspection and quote.
