As water pools around uneven concrete, it can threaten the slab’s structural integrity and cause it to fall into disrepair.
Not only are uneven concrete slabs aesthetically unpleasing, but they can also serve as tripping hazards and redirect water back to your foundation.
While many homeowners are liable to ignore the first signs of a cracked or sloping concrete slab, they’ll soon find out that the cost of replacing a slab far exceeds the cost of concrete lifting for easy repair.
So, how much can you expect to pay for concrete lifting in Northeast Pennsylvania, and is it worth it?
Concrete Lifting vs. Replacement Costs
Property owners have two choices when faced with sunken or damaged concrete: repair or replace the slab.
The problem with concrete replacement is that you’ll need to pay for double the labor to break up and remove the slab and then install the new mixture.
According to Angi, these costs can add up to anywhere between $6.50 to $16.50 per square foot. Compare this to the cost of concrete leveling, which typically costs half the price.
Concrete leveling requires about a quarter of the labor since most companies rely on special polyurethane mixtures that can be injected below the slab to fill any missing voids. This expanding foam mixture plugs any gaps in the concrete, thus stabilizing and leveling it.
If you’re worried about longevity, most polyurethane mixtures are guaranteed to last anywhere from 20-50 years.
However, homeowners generally have two options when it comes to concrete lifting: mudjacking vs. polyjacking. Both differ in quality and price, which we’ll discuss below.
How Much Does Polyurethane Lifting (known as Polyjacking) Cost?
Polyurethane lifting, also known as polyjacking, is a modern technique that involves injecting an expandable polyurethane foam under the concrete slab to level it.
This method is considered much more durable and generally requires less labor than mudjacking, saving homeowners on costs. Polyurethane also cures faster, as jobs take as little as a few hours to complete.
However, since polyurethane is a more expensive material and requires specialized equipment, it tends to have a higher price tag than mudjacking. According to Angi, the cost of polyurethane lifting ranges from $5 to $25 per square foot on average, though you can expect to pay at the lower end of that range.
How Much Does Mudjacking Cost?
Mudjacking, on the other hand, uses a slurry mixture of water, cement, and other additives that is pumped into the hole beneath the cement with a hydraulic pump. Mudjacking may also be done DIY, though it is an incredibly difficult process.
According to Angi, the cost of mudjacking is, on average, between $3 and $6 per square foot.
However, the one caveat of mudjacking is that it is a temporary solution; mixtures only last between 2 to 5 years–sometimes longer under ideal conditions. In snowy and wet climates like Northeast Pennsylvania, mudjacking does not provide a suitable long-term solution to your concrete repair needs.
Factors that Impact Concrete Lifting Costs
When shopping for a concrete leveling solution, it’s important to note that several factors will impact your final quote.
Materials
As previously discussed, polyurethane is a more expensive solution than mudjacking since it lasts longer and takes less time to cure.
Project
The scope and condition of your project will be the biggest determinant of its cost. An uneven walkway will be cheaper to repair than a sinking patio or driveway near the foundation.
Fee Structure
While most contractors charge a flat fee for concrete leveling, some charge hourly. Others may even add overage charges, which add extra cost if the amount of polyurethane initially quoted is not enough for your project.
Benefits of Concrete Lifting
When added up, polyurethane concrete lifting offers the most benefits when compared to slab replacement or mud jacking.
Cost-Effective
Polyurethane foam offers the best bang for your buck, providing an equilibrium between the affordability of mudjacking with the durability of slab replacement.
Quick and Efficient
Concrete lifting with polyurethane can be completed in a matter of hours, minimizing downtime and inconvenience for property owners.
Durability
Polyurethane foam is designed to withstand the elements and can support concrete for anywhere between 20-50 years.
Eco-Friendly
Concrete lifting reduces the need for demolition and disposal of existing concrete, as well as mixing new concrete, making it the more environmentally friendly option.
When totaled, the cost of concrete lifting is far outweighed by its benefits, especially when compared to many alternatives. While some homeowners may forgo this project for a few years, it will only add more cost to your project when you no longer have a choice.
FAQs
How long does polyurethane concrete lifting last?
Polyurethane lifting can last up to fifty years, if not longer. Longevity will depend on several factors, including weather, climate, and general maintenance.
Is concrete lifting covered by insurance?
In rare cases, concrete lifting may be covered by insurance, especially if the damage is caused by an event covered in your policy. However, most policies do not cover general wear and tear or concrete, and repair will need to be paid for out of pocket.
Can I DIY concrete lifting?
It’s generally not recommended to perform DIY concrete lifting. Not only is it dangerous, but it’s also highly expensive. Mudjacking may be possible by hand pouring the slurry underneath, but the results may suffer from this approach.
