How Long Does Mudjacking Last?
Let us level with you about this concrete repair method
Mudjacking is a method of leveling uneven or sunken concrete without having to replace the concrete slab. The process involves injecting a cement slurry underneath the slab through one or more holes, which lifts the slab back up to its original height. The injected material fills any voids or holes underneath the concrete, supporting the slab and allowing it to become level again. Mudjacking isn’t a permanent fix, though—learn how long you can expect it to last and what affects its lifespan.
How Long Does Mudjacking Last?
Mudjacking can last five to 10 years or more, but can vary depending on environmental conditions, materials used, drainage, and more. It’s less expensive than alternatives like polyurethane concrete lifting, but often doesn’t last as long as other methods. In ideal conditions and when properly performed and maintained, mudjacking can even last several decades, but its lifespan depends on a range of factors and conditions.
Factors Influencing How Long Mudjacking Lasts
Ideal mudjacking conditions aren’t always possible, but some factors can affect how long you should expect your mudjacking to last.
Soil Conditions
The composition and compaction of the soil underneath the affected concrete play a large part in how long mudjacking will last. Soil with a high clay content, loose soil, or shifting soil may reduce the time mudjacking lasts since these types of soil tend to be less stable, leading to concrete cracking and shifting.
Climate
Mudjacking’s longevity can be affected by the freeze/thaw cycle, which can cause expansion and contraction of the material under the concrete, creating unstable conditions that shorten how long mudjacking is effective.
Material
The slurry that’s injected under the concrete can vary in composition depending on the contractor, type of job, and local climate conditions. It commonly includes components like sand, clay, soil, cement, limestone, and water, but what’s included and the amount of each material can vary widely. The material used and its suitability for the soil and climate conditions can affect how long it lasts.
Drainage
Erosion is a major contributing factor in determining how long mudjacking will last, and the drainage conditions for the mudjacked area can make a big difference in its longevity. Finding and fixing the cause of the erosion that caused the concrete to sink in the first place can help mudjacking last longer, and poor drainage can speed up its deterioration.
Signs It’s Time to Mudjack
Not sure if your concrete needs leveling? These signs can help you tell if mudjacking is necessary:
Cracks in concrete more than 1/4 of an inch wide
Gaps between the driveway and garage
Concrete sections that are lower than surrounding slabs
Exterior features like steps, porches, or decks that are pulling away from the house
Concrete that’s unstable when weight is applied
How to Increase the Lifespan of Mudjacking
Long-lasting mudjacking begins with the right material and the correct process. DIY mudjacking requires specialized equipment and experience, so your best bet is to hire a local mudjacking pro to make sure the job is done right. Hire a concrete contractor with plenty of mudjacking experience to minimize the risk of improper injection or substandard materials and ensure the ground and concrete are prepared correctly.
Once your concrete has been lifted back to its original height, it’s important to redirect drainage so it doesn’t cause erosion around and under the concrete. Also, keep an eye out for burrowing pests, tree roots, and other factors that can cause voids in the soil. Regularly inspect your concrete for new cracks or signs of shifting.
Warranties for Mudjacking
Some mudjacking contractors who can level your concrete slab may offer warranties on the work, although warranty periods and coverage will vary. Ask your contractor if their work is warrantied and what any applicable warranties will cover. Because mudjacking isn’t meant to be a permanent solution, warranties may only extend for one or two years, and coverage may be limited.
Mudjacking vs. Replacing Concrete
In some cases, it may be safer and more cost effective to replace a concrete slab rather than using mudjacking to level it. If the slab’s structural integrity is compromised or it’s too damaged to properly level, replacement may be the better option. Ask a concrete pro to assess the damage and help you determine whether leveling or replacement is the best option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mudjacking costs range between $325 and $3,700, with most homeowners paying about $1,200 to level their concrete. Costs depend on the size of the slab, the amount of preparation needed, how much material needs to be used to raise the slab, and any additional necessary repairs.
It’s best not to perform mudjacking in the winter unless the ground temperature remains above freezing. Freezing temperatures can cause the slurry to harden too quickly, compromising its strength and longevity. Concrete is also more susceptible to cracking and splitting in cold temperatures, so there’s a higher risk of damaging the slab during the drilling and lifting process in winter.
