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Yes, expanding foam (also known as polyurethane foam) can lift concrete. This approach, called polyjacking, involves injecting the foam rather than concrete slurry to fill voids and raise the concrete slab back into place. It’s often faster and requires smaller drill holes than traditional mudjacking, though it may come at a higher cost. Some contractors also prefer polyjacking over mudjacking for more damaged and delicate slabs.

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 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.

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.