Mudjacking Explained: A Powerful, Proven Solution for Sunken Concrete in Alberta
Sunken or uneven concrete surfaces can be more than just an eyesore — they can lead to trip hazards, drainage issues, structural damage, and costly long-term repairs. Whether it’s a cracked sidewalk, a sloping garage floor, or sunken slabs in a warehouse, concrete settlement is a common issue across Edmonton and throughout Central and Northern Alberta.
Fortunately, there’s a proven, cost-effective solution that avoids the need for demolition and replacement: mudjacking — and Osco Mudjacking & Construction Ltd. is widely recognized as one of the most trusted and experienced providers in the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Mudjacking is a proven, cost-effective alternative to concrete replacement. It is ideal for lifting sunken concrete slabs in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
- Osco has over 70 years of experience restoring concrete with minimal disruption using customized cementitious grout and precise methods.
- Osco offers mudjacking and polyjacking, ensuring the right solution for each project, backed by professional crews and Alberta-wide service coverage.
What Is Mudjacking?
Mudjacking (also known as slab jacking) is a time-tested concrete lifting method involving pumping a custom grout mixture beneath settled concrete. This grout fills voids in the subbase, stabilizes the underlying soil, and raises the slab back to its original level.
Unlike full replacement, mudjacking is fast, minimally disruptive, and environmentally sound — and has been used effectively for decades across residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Why Osco Mudjacking Is Alberta’s Go-To Concrete Lifting Specialist
Founded in 1952, Osco Mudjacking & Construction Ltd. is Western Canada’s longest-serving concrete repair and pressure grouting company. With over 70 years of field-tested experience, we are proud to be a locally owned and operated company based in Edmonton, serving a wide area across Northern and Central Alberta.
What sets Osco apart is not just our history — it’s our commitment to precision workmanship, tailored solutions, and exceptional service. Whether it’s a sunken driveway in a private residence or a major lifting job at a refinery or parkade, we deliver fast, reliable, and budget-conscious results.
The Osco Mudjacking Process: Precision from the Ground Up
At Osco, our mudjacking process is engineered for long-term performance and minimal disruption. Here’s how it works:
1. Drill and Inject
We begin by drilling small holes (1″–1.5″) into the affected slab. Our crews then pump a specially formulated cementitious grout into the voids beneath the concrete. This mix — a blend of sand, cement, water, and carefully selected additives — spreads evenly to fill empty pockets and support the slab.
2. Compaction of Subbase
As the grout is injected, it compacts the loose or eroded soils below, reinforcing the ground and reducing the risk of future settlement. This step is key to ensuring structural integrity and long-lasting results.
3. Controlled Lifting
Once the subbase is stabilized, we carefully continue injecting grout until the slab begins to rise. Using advanced monitoring equipment and highly skilled technicians, we make precise, incremental adjustments to achieve an even lift.
Why Osco’s Cementitious Grout Is Superior
Our in-house formulated grout offers:
- High Flowability – Reaches all voids, even under large or heavily settled slabs.
- Custom Strength Ranges – Adjustable compressive strength (0.5 – 5 MPa) based on the project.
- Eco-Safe and Inert – Resistant to moisture, chemicals, oils, and UV exposure.
- Quick Turnaround – Most surfaces are ready for regular use on the same day.
When Is Mudjacking the Right Choice?
Mudjacking is ideal for various applications, particularly when budget, speed, and minimal disruption are critical. Osco regularly performs mudjacking for:
- Residential Projects – Driveways, sidewalks, patios, basement floors, and garages.
- Commercial & Industrial Slabs – Warehouses, office buildings, plant floors, and parking lots.
- Municipal Infrastructure – Sidewalks, bridge approaches, parkades, and community amenities.
It is especially effective for large concrete surfaces with extensive voids or in high-traffic areas that require fast return to service.
Mudjacking vs. Polyjacking — Know the Difference
Unlike many contractors, Osco offers traditional mudjacking and polyurethane foam lifting (polyjacking). While polyjacking uses expanding foam and is great for small-scale precision jobs, mudjacking remains the preferred method for larger slabs and deeper voids, offering:
- Greater stability in moisture-prone environments
- Superior compaction and coverage
- Reusability of injection points without redrilling
- No curing time — surfaces are immediately serviceable
Let our team guide you on the best lifting solution for your site conditions and budget.
The Osco Advantage: Experience, Dependability, and Results
At Osco, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every mudjacking job begins with a thorough on-site assessment, followed by a precise, competitive quote and a custom repair plan. Our team of experienced crews and specialized equipment ensures:
- Efficient, high-volume production — up to 200% more coverage per day
- Tailored mix designs to suit your specific concrete issue
- Service across residential, industrial, and municipal sectors
- Fast mobilization across Edmonton and beyond
We’ve proudly completed thousands of projects — from refinery floors and airport runways to subdivision sidewalks and heritage building basements — all with the same commitment to craftsmanship and integrity.
Summary
Concrete settlement can lead to costly and hazardous problems, but mudjacking offers a reliable, efficient solution. Osco Mudjacking & Construction Ltd., a trusted name since 1952, specializes in lifting sunken concrete by injecting custom grout beneath slabs to fill voids and stabilize the soil. This method restores surfaces without demolition, with results ready the same day. Serving Edmonton and all of Central and Northern Alberta, Osco tailors each project using specialized equipment, high-performance grout, and decades of experience — making them Alberta’s go-to contractor for durable, budget-conscious concrete repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mudjacking?
Mudjacking is a technique that lifts and stabilizes sunken concrete by pumping a cement-based grout underneath the slab.
How is Osco’s mudjacking process different?
Osco uses a custom grout mix to compact subbase soils, providing precise, controlled slab lifting with minimal disruption.
What types of projects is mudjacking ideal for?
It’s perfect for driveways, sidewalks, warehouses, parkades, and other large slabs needing quick, cost-effective repair.
How does mudjacking compare to polyjacking?
Mudjacking is better for larger areas and deep voids, offering superior compaction and moisture resistance.
How long does it take for surfaces to be usable after mudjacking?
Most surfaces are ready for use the same day — with no curing time needed.
Concrete Issues? Let’s Lift You Back on Solid Ground
If your concrete is sinking, cracking, or creating hazards, don’t wait. Avoid costly full replacements by lifting it the smart way — with Osco. Contact our team today, and let us show you how easy and affordable professional mudjacking can be.