Polyjacking and mudjacking can both be effective solutions for sinking concrete, but they have key differences. Polyjacking, which uses expanding polyurethane foam, is often considered a better option because the foam is significantly lighter than the cementitious material used for mudjacking. This reduced weight puts less pressure on the underlying soil and lowers the risk of future sinking. Polyjacking is suitable for any sinking concrete slab, while mudjacking is typically only recommended for non-structural concrete, such as sidewalks, patios, pool decks, and driveways. The primary drawback of polyjacking is its cost, which can be up to four times higher than mudjacking—as much as $25 per square foot compared to a maximum of about $6 per square foot for mudjacking.

Yes, you can mudjack cracked concrete, but the cracks will need to be repaired once the concrete has been leveled. If the concrete is severely cracked in multiple places, replacement may be a better option, but for less severe cracking, mudjacking is a good solution as long as cracks are correctly caulked and sealed.

Mudjacking is usually reserved for light-duty slabs, like patios, driveways, and sidewalks. However, it can be an effective way to lift garage slabs and concrete around the perimeter of the home, which could harm your foundation if it’s not done properly. The risk of damage is why having a professional mudjacking company carry out the work is important. This type of slab or foundation repair is relatively inexpensive, especially if you consider that a DIY job requires that you pay to rent the necessary equipment.

Concrete leveling is absolutely worth it if you have sunken concrete slabs and want to restore them to level, especially if the slab is part of your home foundation. Concrete leveling is less than half the price of replacing concrete sidewalks, patios, walkways, and pool decks, and it’s about a quarter of the cost of replacing a foundation. If you also treat the underlying problem, it can be a worthwhile and permanent solution.