A slurry of cement, sand, and water is injected beneath the concrete to lift and stabilize it.

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.

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.

A sinking foundation can be lifted, most often by installing piers to re-level and support the weight of the house. Depending on the cause and extent of the sinking, other methods to lift a foundation include underpinning and mudjacking. Consult a foundation repair pro to determine the best way to lift your sinking foundation.