How do the three methods compare?
Swipe the table sideways to see all columns.
| Polyjacking (foam) | Mudjacking (slurry) | Tear-out and replace | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fill weight | About 2 to 4 lbs per cu ft | About 100 to 150 lbs per cu ft | New 4-inch concrete slab |
| Hole size | 5/8 inch | About 1 to 2 inches | No holes. Old slab is removed |
| Ready to drive on | About 15 minutes | About 24 to 72 hours | About 7 to 10 days |
| Durability | Water resistant. Does not wash out | Slurry can erode or wash out with water | New slab, but the soil below can still settle |
| Mess | Small patched holes | Larger patched holes, more cleanup | Demolition, haul-off and forms |
| Relative cost | $6 to $12 per sq ft here ($650 minimum) | Varies. Often lower than foam | Usually costs more, plus days of demo and cure time |
Mudjacking prices vary by contractor, so we do not list one. Our foam lifting rate is $6 to $12 per square foot with a $650 minimum.
Why does fill weight matter on East Valley clay?
A slab sinks because the soil under it could not hold it up. Mudjacking adds heavy slurry on top of that same soil. Sources put mudjacking slurry at about 100 to 150 pounds per cubic foot, against about 2 to 4 pounds for foam. The Arizona Geological Survey warns that much of Arizona has expansive or collapsing soils. Adding very little weight is a big advantage there.
Which method lasts longer?
Sources agree that foam usually lasts longer, but they do not agree on exact years. Cured foam is water resistant and does not wash out. Cement slurry can erode when water runs under the slab, which is common with leaks and monsoon storms. In every method, fixing the water problem matters as much as the fill.
Which method makes less mess?
Polyjacking leaves the fewest marks: small 5/8-inch holes that are patched. Mudjacking uses larger holes, often 1 to 2 inches, and more patching. Replacement means breaking up the old slab, hauling it away, and living with forms and fresh concrete for days.
When is replacement the better choice?
Replace the slab if it is broken into many small pieces, if it is crumbling, or if you want a new shape or finish. Lifting works best when the slab is solid and the problem is the empty space under it.
Frequently asked questions
Is polyjacking worth the extra cost over mudjacking?
Foam material costs more than cement slurry, so some mudjacking quotes come in lower. Foam weighs far less, uses smaller holes, and is ready in about 15 minutes. It also resists washing out. On settling clay and backfill, those points often make foam the better value over time.
Is polyjacking the same as foam jacking or slab jacking?
Polyjacking, foam jacking and polyurethane foam lifting all mean the same thing: lifting concrete with expanding foam. Slab jacking is a general term that some people use for both foam and mudjacking. Mudjacking always means a cement or soil slurry. Ask any contractor which material they use.
How long does each method take before I can drive on it?
With foam, you can usually drive on the slab about 15 minutes after the lift. Mudjacking slurry needs about 24 to 72 hours, depending on the source. A new replacement slab needs about 7 to 10 days before you park on it, according to the Concrete Network.