Mudjacking Vs Polyjacking: Which Saves Time and Money?

Uneven concrete creates tripping hazards and hurts curb appeal. Two fast options for concrete leveling can fix sunken concrete without full concrete replacement.

Mudjacking uses cement grout to lift slabs. Polyjacking uses lightweight polyurethane foam. Each method has different costs, cure times, and long-lasting results for concrete repair. This guide compares tools, materials, prices, and durability so you can choose with confidence.

Read on for clear answers that save time and money.

What Is Mudjacking?

Mudjacking uses pressure grouting to raise a sunken concrete slab. Pressure grouting means pumping a thick cement mix through small holes to fill empty spaces. The slurry fills voids from water erosion or soil settling under many types of concrete.

How is mudjacking done and what materials are used?

Mudjacking lifts concrete slabs with a pumped mixture. The steps are simple and fast.

1. Crews drill 2-inch injection holes in the slab. These are larger than polyjacking holes.
2. Technicians pump a slurry of Portland cement, soil, and water using pressure grouting machines.
3. The slurry flows into voids and supports the slab as it lifts.
4. Workers watch levels and lift slowly to avoid cracks or shifting.
5. The mix cures in 24 to 48 hours, forming a firm, stone-like base.
6. Teams patch the holes with matching concrete to blend the repair.
7. According to Pinnacle Foundation Repair, this process fits large sidewalks, driveways, and garage floors where a quick cure time keeps downtime low.

This method uses basic materials and proven gear for void filling and lifting at homes and businesses.

What are the main benefits of mudjacking?

Lower cost is the big draw. Most jobs run $500 to $2,000, which is far less than replacing the slab.

The mix uses sand, water, and Portland cement. These natural ingredients make it a more eco-friendly choice for many driveways and walks.

Work is quick with little disruption. Crews can lift a slab in hours. The heavier slurry also compacts loose soil and adds support.

When done by trained contractors, results can hold up to daily traffic and tough weather.

Quick lifts at half the price keep your sidewalk open, says Mike Jensen of Concrete Pros USA.

Old concrete stays in place, so less waste ends up in landfills. Mudjacking is a smart fix for uneven sidewalks near trees and for busy driveways.

What are the drawbacks of mudjacking?

Mudjacking can be messy. Slurry spills may stain walks, garage floors, and nearby landscaping. The 2 inch holes leave visible patches that can hurt curb appeal.

The heavy mix adds weight to weak soil. That can push the soil down and allow more sinking later. High pressure does not always reach every hidden void, which can leave soft spots.

The slurry may shrink while curing. If the ground keeps moving, repeat repairs are likely.

Mudjacking does not fix the root cause of soil erosion or unstable dirt. Storms and freeze-thaw cycles can bring the problem back. Many owners look at foam next, since it can last longer.

What Is Polyjacking?

Polyjacking lifts concrete by injecting expanding polyurethane foam under sunken slabs. The foam expands, fills gaps, and raises the slab back to level.

How is polyjacking done and what materials are used?

Polyjacking levels concrete fast with polyurethane foam. The process is clean and precise.

• Specialists assess the slab with laser levels and plan injection points.
• Small holes the size of a dime or penny are drilled where needed.
• Expanding polyurethane foam is injected with portable pumps and hoses.
• The foam grows within minutes, fills voids, and lifts the slab to grade.
• Two-part foams react underground and form a lightweight, water-resistant base.
• Foam hardens in 15 minutes to one hour, so traffic can resume quickly.
• Compact equipment speeds setup and cleanup across multiple jobs.
• Foam weighs far less than cement grout, which reduces soil stress.
• The closed-cell foam blocks water from flowing under the slab, which helps prevent repeat settling.

What are the main benefits of polyjacking?

Speed stands out. You can use a repaired driveway, sidewalk, or garage floor in about 15 minutes. The holes are tiny, so the finish looks clean.

The foam is waterproof and resists erosion. That gives better long-term stability in wet or clay soils.

Precision lifts reduce movement of nearby soil. The injection can also tighten loose dirt, which builds a stronger base for years.

You get long-term results without messy cleanup or long wait times.

Polyjacking works on patios, steps, and high-traffic commercial areas. It is a strong pick when downtime must be short and results need to last.

What are the drawbacks of polyjacking?

Polyjacking costs more because foam and gear are pricey. Typical projects run $1,000 to $3,000, or $5 to $25 per square foot.

It is not a DIY job. Skilled pros must measure, drill, inject, and control the lift.

The foam is synthetic and does not biodegrade. Poor technique can over-lift a panel and cause damage.

Some deep voids may remain if not carefully mapped. The chemicals heat up as they react, so proper safety gear and ventilation are required.

Fewer contractors offer polyjacking than mudjacking in some areas, which can affect scheduling.

Mudjacking vs. Polyjacking: Key Comparisons

Mudjacking and polyjacking differ in cost, speed, strength, and environmental impact. See how they stack up for your project.

How do mudjacking and polyjacking compare in cost?

Mudjacking averages $3 to $8 per square foot. Many small slabs run $500 to $2,000. One or two panels often cost about $1,600. Typical jobs average near $2,700. Large sites can top $7,000.

Polyjacking runs higher, $5 to $25 per square foot. Many jobs total $1,000 to over $3,000. Small fixes can be around $900. Standard repairs land near $2,500. Big work can pass $7,500.

For big areas like long driveways, mudjacking is often cheaper. For small targets like repairing front steps, polyjacking can save on setup time and labor.

Both options cost far less than replacing the slab. Basic replacement often starts near $4,500 and can double on larger projects.

What are the differences in curing time and efficiency?

Speed matters for busy homes and lots. Polyjacking foam hardens in 15 minutes to an hour. You can drive or walk on it the same day.

The holes are smaller, so the area looks cleaner. Setup and cleanup are faster.

Mudjacking needs 24 to 72 hours to cure before use. The mix weighs about 100 pounds per cubic foot, which suits large pads on stable subgrade.

It uses bigger holes that need patching. Polyjacking often wins for tight timelines. Mudjacking fits heavy-duty pads where weight support is key.

Which method lasts longer and is more durable?

Polyjacking can last up to 50 years. The polyurethane foam does not absorb water, which helps it resist erosion and settling.

Mudjacking depends on the soil beneath. The heavy slurry can settle again over time, which may cause new dips or cracks.

Many mudjacking jobs have limited warranty coverage. Polyjacking often comes with a lifetime guarantee from contractors such as PolyLevel.

In wet or freeze-prone areas, foam usually holds firm. Mudjacked slabs may move again if erosion continues under the panel.

How do mudjacking and polyjacking impact the environment?

Mudjacking uses soil, sand, water, and Portland cement. These materials are common and do not harm plants or groundwater when placed correctly.

That said, heavy trucks and pumps can disturb soil structure at the surface.

Polyjacking foam is synthetic and does not break down. Care is needed to avoid chemical spills during installation.

Smaller holes and lighter gear reduce site damage compared to full removal. Both methods create less waste than tearing out and replacing a slab.

How Will Mudjacking and Polyjacking Change in 2025?

Contractors expect faster shifts in concrete leveling through 2025. Polyjacking continues to grow as more crews learn the process. Some companies, including Thrasher, use polyjacking as their primary method.

Industry updates in early 2025 show many firms plan to reduce mudjacking work. The reason is longer cure times and rougher patches.

Stone slurry grout may gain attention as new tools reach the field. It could offer a middle ground on some projects.

Foam chemistry keeps improving. New blends aim for less settling and longer life, which reduces upkeep for owners.

Modern pumps and better training also cut labor hours. Improved soil testing helps choose the right method and lowers the chance of repeat repairs. Cost, strength, speed, finish quality, urgency, and soil conditions will still drive the choice in 2025.

People Also Ask