Concrete Mudjacking questions, answered by experts
Pros often use mudjacking or polyurethane foam injection to level a sunken concrete patio. Both methods lift the slab by filling voids beneath it. After properly compacting the soil beneath it to prevent future settling, the concrete may need to be removed and re-poured for severe sinking.
Mudjacking is your best bet for leveling concrete on a tighter budget. It’s less expensive than foam or grout mixture. For smaller, surface-level issues, you could also use a self-leveling compound, which creates an even surface over existing concrete—it’s a budget-friendly option suitable for DIY enthusiasts.
Address drainage issues, avoid heavy loads, and seal cracks to prevent future settling.
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.
The average cost for mudjacking is around $1,200, though prices can range from $300 to $3,400. On a per-square-foot basis, you can expect to pay between $3 and $8, with an average of about $5 per square foot. The final cost depends on several factors, including the square footage of the concrete, the type of slab, its accessibility, whether it is load-bearing, and the type of material used to lift it. Generally, lifting a driveway, small patio, or sidewalk is less expensive than lifting a slab foundation or garage floor.
The Battle Mountain, NV homeowners’ guide to concrete mudjacking services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
DIY mudjacking is an advanced task, but learning how to raise a concrete slab is great to know for many scenarios. Let's take a look at how to DIY mudjack.