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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.

Most states and municipalities don’t require concrete mudjacking companies to carry a specific license, but they usually need to have a general contractor’s license, and they should be fully insured. The only exception is if the mudjacking company provides foundation repairs as well, or if it offers mudjacking for home foundations. In that case, they will typically need a foundation repair contractor’s license. You can check state requirements and then use Angi’s license lookup tool to confirm that a company is properly licensed to provide mudjacking services in your area.

Mudjacking typically takes 24 to 72 hours (one to three days) to dry and cure completely before you can resume normal use. The total drying time can vary depending on the size of the project. Because the slurry mixture contains cement, it needs to harden fully to prevent the concrete slab from shifting under added weight. You should avoid walking on the concrete or placing heavy items like furniture or vehicles on the surface until it has fully set. Your concrete contractor can provide a precise timeline. As a point of comparison, if you opt for polyjacking, the polyurethane foam can dry in minutes, but it's recommended to wait about an hour before use.

On average, a mudjacking repair lasts between five and 10 years, though it can sometimes last for well beyond a decade under ideal conditions. Its longevity depends heavily on several factors, including the condition of the underlying soil, environmental conditions like freeze/thaw cycles and erosion, and whether the root cause of the sinking, such as drainage issues, is resolved. Because it doesn't always fix the underlying problem of loose soil, mudjacking is often considered a temporary solution. Proper maintenance and evaluation can help extend its lifespan.