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.

Mudjacking can be an expensive foundation repair process, but in many cases, it’s well worth the investment. This is especially true if you’re lifting a portion of sunken foundation slab back into place. In that case, mudjacking can help avoid major structural damage and even home collapse by restoring the integrity of your structure with minimally invasive procedures. Mudjacking a concrete patio, walkway, or sidewalk can be worthwhile because it removes tripping hazards and makes your outdoor area more aesthetically appealing.

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

It’s best not to perform mudjacking in the winter unless the ground temperature remains above freezing. Freezing temperatures can cause the slurry to harden too quickly, compromising its strength and longevity. Concrete is also more susceptible to cracking and splitting in cold temperatures, so there’s a higher risk of damaging the slab during the drilling and lifting process in winter.