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Mudjacking typically takes 24 to 72 hours (one to three days) to dry and cure completely before you can resume normal use. The exact time can vary depending on the size of the project. Because the slurry mixture contains cement, it must fully harden to ensure that added weight from walking, furniture, or vehicles won't shift the concrete slab. A professional contractor can advise you on when the surface is safe to use. For comparison, if you use polyjacking instead, the polyurethane foam can dry in just a few minutes, but it's best 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.

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.

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.