Cement and Concrete Repair Options: Why PolyLevel® Outperforms Mudjacking and Replacement

Sunken or cracked cement slabs, such as driveways, patios, or sidewalks, pose safety hazards, detract from curb appeal, and lower your home’s value. Michigan homeowners often wonder: should I replace the cement, go with mudjacking, or choose a modern solution like PolyLevel® concrete leveling? Let’s break down each option, their drawbacks, and why PolyLevel® is the best long-term fix.



Should I Replace My Cement or Concrete if It’s Cracked or Sunken?
Replacing cement or concrete means tearing out the old slab and pouring new material. While it may feel like a fresh start, this approach comes with significant drawbacks, not just financially, but environmentally too. The cement industry is responsible for roughly 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions, more than the entire aviation sector. And with new slabs poured on the same unstable soil that caused the issue, replacement often fails to be a lasting solution.

Cons of Replacing Cement:
• Expensive – Full replacement costs significantly more than repair.
• Time-consuming – Demolition, pouring, and curing can take days to weeks.
• Not permanent – New cement is poured on the same weak soil that caused the old slab to sink, meaning the cycle of settlement can start again.

What Is Mudjacking, and Is It a Good Way to Fix Cement Slabs?
Mudjacking involves drilling large holes into the slab and pumping a mixture of cement, soil, and water beneath it to lift the surface. This method has been used for decades but comes with drawbacks.

Cons of Mudjacking:
• Heavy material – The slurry is heavy and can actually cause further settlement over time.
• Large drill holes – Leaves noticeable patches on the cement surface.
• Short-term solution – The material can wash out or erode, leading to further soil erosion and increased sinking.
• Messy process – Brings mud and water under your slab, sometimes worsening soil conditions.

Why Is PolyLevel® Cement Leveling Better Than Mudjacking or Replacement?
PolyLevel® is a high-density polyurethane foam injected under the slab through small, penny-sized holes. As it expands, it lifts and stabilizes the cement or concrete. NexusPro® complements this by sealing cracks and joints to prevent water from getting underneath and causing further settlement.

Benefits of PolyLevel® and NexusPro®:
• Lightweight – Won’t add stress to weak soils under your cement slab.
• Quick-curing – Surfaces are ready to use in minutes, not days. Minimal disruption – Small drill holes are nearly invisible.
• Long-lasting – Waterproof material won’t wash away or erode.
• Environmentally friendly – Requires fewer resources than full cement replacement.



Real Results with PolyLevel Cement Repair for Jackson, MI Homeowners
Lee and Janet had been dealing with a settling cement garage floor for more than 20 years. Over time, the problem became worse, and they finally decided it was time to stabilize the cement and make their garage safe again. When our specialist Zac met with them, he walked through the project step by step and set realistic expectations for what could be achieved. That honesty and clarity were what really stood out to Lee and Janet; they appreciated having a contractor who valued transparency. Janet, whose family runs a flooring contracting business, said she especially respected working with a team whose morals and integrity aligned with her own. As part of the cement repair project, Lee and Janet also wanted to replace their exterior concrete steps. Our team helped them plan for long-term stability by removing the old steps and repairing and leveling the cement beneath, ensuring a strong foundation before they rebuilt.

Solutions Installed for Lee & Janet:
• PolyLevel® – Lifted, leveled, and stabilized their sunken cement garage floor.
• NexusPro® – Crack & Joint Sealant – Sealed cracks and joints to protect the cement slab from future water intrusion.

Now, after more than two decades of struggling with their garage floor, Lee and Janet finally have a safe, stable, and long-lasting solution they can trust.



Related - Sinking concrete created tripping hazards for a Fowlerville, MI, family. In the video above, see how our team quickly restored the driveway, steps, and sidewalk with expert concrete repair.

Where Can I Get Cement and Concrete Repair in Michigan?
At Ayers Basement Systems, we help homeowners across Michigan and Northern Indiana restore their cement driveways, concrete sidewalks, garage floors, and patios. From Detroit to Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo to Traverse City, Lansing to Muskegon, our solutions are faster, cleaner, and longer-lasting than mudjacking or cement replacement.

Schedule your free inspection today and see how PolyLevel® can restore your cement and concrete surfaces while protecting your home’s safety and curb appeal.