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.

Concrete blemishes such as chipped steps or small cracks are fixable with patching. For bigger jobs, including driveway repair and cracks wider than a 1/4 of an inch, patches will only serve as a temporary fix. Resurfacing is ideal when the surface is showing more widespread wear—like if it’s pitted, rough, or has lots of cracks. Resurfacing gives your concrete a fresh, like-new appearance without needing a full replacement.

When the concrete is severely cracked, sinking, or otherwise structurally unsound, replacing it might be your best option. Replacement ensures the safety and longevity of the surface in this case.

The biggest downside to resurfacing concrete is its lifespan. Concrete resurfacing lasts for five to ten years, on average, while a new concrete slab would last for 20 to 30. The cost of concrete resurfacing is much lower, but you get more value from full replacement. Resurfacing also doesn’t address any underlying issues with your slab, so you may need additional repairs, like mudjacking.

Concrete resurfacing and concrete overlay are terms often used interchangeably to describe the process of applying a new, thin layer of pre-blended concrete over an existing slab. This process enhances the durability and appearance of the concrete, giving it a fresh look without the high cost of a full replacement. The new layer is typically between 1/4-inch and 1-inch thick, significantly less than the 4 inches required for a new slab, and can be stamped, colored, or textured for a custom finish.

While the terms are often considered the same, their meaning can sometimes vary by contractor. Some may use "overlay" to describe a thicker application that adds structural integrity, while "resurfacing" might refer to a thinner layer intended for cosmetic upgrades. Other common names for this process include concrete restoration, concrete refinishing, and concrete rejuvenation.