Average mudjacking cost

Mudjacking costs $4 to $9 per square foot on average to level a sunken concrete slab without the expense of replacement. The total cost depends on the project size, accessibility, and location. Smaller repairs typically cost more per square foot due to minimum charges, while larger projects may benefit from economies of scale.

Most mudjacking contractors charge minimum job fees of $300 to $700

*Many contractors charge minimum job fees ranging from $300 to $700.

What is mudjacking, and how does it work?

Mudjacking, also called slabjacking or concrete leveling, is a repair technique that lifts settled concrete back to its original position. A contractor drills small holes in the sunken slab and pumps a specialized mixture underneath to fill voids and raise the concrete.

The process involves injecting a slurry mixture—typically made of water, soil, sand, and cement—under high pressure. As the material fills empty spaces beneath the slab, it lifts the concrete gradually until it reaches the desired height. The holes are then patched, and the surface is ready for use within 24 hours.

Mudjacking prices by project

Mudjacking costs vary depending on the specific project and the amount of concrete that needs leveling. The table below shows the average cost for common residential projects.

*Many contractors charge minimum job fees ranging from $300 to $700.

What affects the cost of mudjacking?

Several factors influence mudjacking prices beyond just the square footage of the repair:

Size of the repair (what you can and can't see)

The visible surface area tells only part of the story when calculating mudjacking costs. Underground voids beneath the concrete slab may extend beyond the sunken area you can see, requiring more fill material and labor than initially expected.

Contractors often discover additional settlement issues once they begin the injection process. Extensive voids or multiple low spots across a single slab can increase the material requirements and the number of injection holes needed, driving up the overall cost.

Minimum charges

Most mudjacking contractors charge minimum service fees ranging from $300 to $700, regardless of the project size. These minimum fees include the costs of getting things ready, moving equipment, and the standard labor for setting up and finishing even small projects.

Fill material

The type of fill material used affects both the cost and longevity of the repair. Traditional mudjacking uses a cement-based slurry mixture, which is the most economical option and suitable for most residential applications.

Some contractors offer alternative materials like polyurethane foam (polyjacking) or specialized engineered fills that cost more but provide benefits like lighter weight, faster curing, or superior stability. These premium materials can double or triple the per-square-foot price.

Amount of settling

The depth of the concrete settlement directly impacts the amount of fill material needed and the complexity of the lifting process. Slabs that have dropped 1 to 2 inches require less material than those settled 4 to 6 inches or more.

Severely settled concrete may need multiple injection points and careful monitoring during the lifting process to prevent cracking. Extreme settlement cases sometimes push the repair beyond economical mudjacking solutions, making replacement a more practical option. Complete concrete slab replacement costs $6 to $15 per square foot on average.

Accessibility

Easy access to the repair site keeps costs down, while difficult locations increase labor time and equipment needs. Driveways and sidewalks near the street typically cost less to repair than backyard patios or areas requiring equipment to pass through narrow gates.

Contractors may charge extra for projects that require extensive setup, working in tight spaces, or navigating obstacles like landscaping, fences, or overhead structures. Remote locations far from material suppliers may also incur additional delivery fees.

Location

Labor rates and mudjacking material costs vary by location. Homeowners in metropolitan areas and regions with higher costs of living typically see rates at the upper end of the price range. Rural areas often have lower labor costs but may have higher material delivery charges if suppliers are located far away.

Surface work

Preparation work adds to the total project cost. Contractors may need to clean the concrete surface, remove obstacles, or cut away damaged sections before beginning the mudjacking process. Heavily stained or deteriorated concrete may require additional cleaning or patching after the lifting is complete.

Additional costs

Beyond basic leveling, your project may require additional work that increases the final bill. These extras can add 10% to 30% to your base mudjacking costs. Be sure to discuss all potential additional work up front to avoid surprise charges when you receive your final bill.

If poor drainage or soil erosion caused the original sinking, the same issues will affect the repaired slab unless corrected. Installing proper drainage, maintaining gutters and downspouts, and preventing water accumulation near the foundation adds to your costs but helps ensure your mudjacking repair lasts as long as possible.

Mudjacking vs. polyjacking

Both mudjacking and polyjacking lift settled concrete, but they use different materials and techniques. Polyjacking, also called foam jacking, uses lightweight polyurethane foam instead of traditional cement slurry to lift concrete.

Traditional mudjacking is cost effective for most residential projects, especially larger areas. Polyjacking costs more but makes sense for projects requiring minimal disruption, areas with weak underlying soil, or when aesthetics and cure time are priorities worth the extra investment.

Signs your concrete needs mudjacking

Mudjacking can help you address problems before they worsen. Common indicators include:

• Visible gaps between concrete slabs and adjacent surfaces like buildings or other slabs

• Pooling water on your driveway, patio, or sidewalk after rain

• Uneven surfaces creating tripping hazards

• Doors or windows in adjacent structures becoming difficult to open or close

• Cracks forming or widening near settled areas

• Sloping or tilting of concrete sections

Acting early typically costs less than waiting until the settlement becomes severe. Small adjustments require less material and labor than major concrete lifting projects.

Mudjacking FAQs

How long does mudjacking last?

Properly executed mudjacking lasts 5 to 10 years or longer, depending on the soil conditions and drainage. The repair's longevity depends more on addressing the underlying cause of settlement than on the mudjacking process itself.

Is mudjacking worth it compared to concrete replacement?

Mudjacking often costs 30% to 50% less than tearing out and replacing concrete, making it an excellent value for structurally sound slabs that have simply settled. However, mudjacking isn't suitable for severely cracked, crumbling, or damaged concrete. If your slab has significant structural problems, replacement may be the better long-term investment despite the higher upfront cost.

How disruptive is the mudjacking process?

Mudjacking is minimally invasive and usually completed in a few hours for typical residential projects. The concrete is ready for light foot traffic within 24 hours and full vehicle use within 2 to 3 days.

The process creates some noise during drilling and pumping, and you'll need to avoid the work area during repair. However, there's no demolition debris, no lengthy cure time like new concrete requires, and minimal disruption to landscaping or adjacent structures.

What's the difference between mudjacking and slabjacking?

Mudjacking and slabjacking are two names for the same process. The terms are used interchangeably in the industry, both referring to lifting settled concrete by pumping material underneath. In some cases, slabjacking is used as a catch-all term for all types of concrete leveling, not just mudjacking.

Getting estimates for mudjacking

When searching for a mudjacking contractor near you, be sure to:

• Compare estimates from at least three different mudjacking companies.

• Request written estimates that break down costs by labor, materials, and any additional services.

• Hire a mudjacking company that is licensed, insured, and has been in business in your area for 5+ years.

• Check for positive reviews on HomeGuide and Google.

• Ask for references from previous clients with similar job details.

• Be wary of quotes significantly lower than competitors, as they may indicate inexperienced contractors or the use of inferior materials.

• Don't pay in full until the job is complete, including the final cleanup.

Questions to ask a concrete contractor

Asking the right questions during your consultation can help you evaluate contractors and understand what you're paying for. Consider these important questions:

• How many years have you been performing mudjacking repairs?

• Are you licensed and insured?

• What type of fill material do you use?

• Do you guarantee your work?

• Can you provide references or photos of similar projects?

• What's included in your estimate?

• How long will the project take?

• Do you address the underlying cause of settlement?

• Are there permits required, and who obtains them?

• What payment schedule do you require?