Mudjacking vs Polyjacking: Lifting Sunken Concrete
Mudjacking vs polyjacking compares two ways to raise sunken concrete slabs without replacing them. Both involve drilling holes in the slab and pumping material underneath to fill voids and lift it back toward level. Mudjacking uses a cement-based slurry, while polyjacking uses expanding polyurethane foam. Polyjacking typically costs more but uses smaller holes, weighs less, and cures faster.
Concrete calculator →How each works
| Feature | Mudjacking | Polyjacking |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Slurry of cement, sand, soil, or limestone | Two-part expanding polyurethane foam |
| Hole size | Larger, often about 1 to 2 inches | Smaller, often about 5/8 inch |
| Material weight | Heavy | Lightweight |
| Cure time | Often a day or more before traffic | Often minutes to hours |
| Cost | Usually lower | Usually higher |
| Water resistance | Can wash out or erode over time | Resists water |
Pros and cons
Mudjacking:
- Lower cost per job in many markets.
- Natural material.
- Heavier slurry can add weight to already weak soils, possibly causing more settling.
- Larger holes are more visible after patching.
Polyjacking:
- Fast cure; often drivable the same day.
- Light weight reduces load on soft soils.
- Small holes are less noticeable.
- Higher material cost.
- Foam is permanent and difficult to remove later.
When slab lifting works
- Slabs that are intact but sunken or tilted.
- Sidewalks with trip hazards.
- Driveway sections pulling away from the garage.
- Patio slabs pitched toward the house.
When it does not
- Badly cracked or crumbling slabs, which may break further when lifted.
- Ongoing erosion from leaks, poor drainage, or broken pipes, unless fixed first.
- Expansive clay that will keep moving.
- Very thin slabs.
Fix the cause, such as downspouts, leaking irrigation, or erosion, or the slab may sink again. See gravel base under a concrete slab for why base matters.
Cost considerations
Pricing usually depends on the size and number of slabs, how much material is needed to fill voids, and local rates. Get quotes for both methods if available, and ask about warranties.
How long the lift lasts
Results depend largely on soil and drainage. Many contractors claim polyurethane lifts last longer because foam resists washout, while mudjacking may need repeating sooner on wet soils. Neither fixes the underlying soil issue.
After lifting
- Seal joints and cracks to keep water out. See concrete driveway crack repair.
- Patch holes with matching concrete or grout.
- Improve drainage around the slab.
Bottom line
Mudjacking uses cement slurry and is usually cheaper, while polyjacking uses lightweight foam with smaller holes and faster cure. Both lift sunken slabs if the concrete is in good shape and the cause of settlement is fixed. Get quotes for both, and replace badly broken slabs instead.
Questions people ask
Is polyjacking better than mudjacking?
Polyjacking cures faster, weighs less, and uses smaller holes, but usually costs more.
How long does mudjacking last?
It depends on soil and drainage. It may need redoing sooner on wet or eroding soils.
Can I drive on concrete after polyjacking?
Often within hours. Confirm with the contractor.
Can cracked slabs be lifted?
Intact slabs lift best. Badly cracked slabs may break further.
Why did my concrete sink?
Common causes include poor compaction, erosion, leaks, and poor drainage.
Related guides
- Concrete Driveway Crack Repair: Fill, Seal, or Replace
- Gravel Base Under a Concrete Slab: Depth and Tons
- How Long Does a Concrete Driveway Last?
- Concrete Driveway Thickness: 4, 5 or 6 Inches?
As an Amazon Associate, AsphaltTons.com earns from qualifying purchases. Product links below are sponsored.