Generally speaking, push piers—or steel piers—are the best option for underpinning, as they reach down to solid bedrock to find support for your foundation rather than relying on soil, which could be subject to the same issues as the soil directly below your foundation. However, the best underpinning method for your home depends on your location, how far down the bedrock is, and the type of soil in your area. Helical piers are usually the best option for sandy soil or in areas where the bedrock is too deep to use steel piers.

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.

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.

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.