Mudjacking Cost: 5 Factors That Affect It

By: Kris Winters

April 10th, 2024

Mudjacking, also called slab jacking or concrete leveling, is an inexpensive way to raise and level sunken concrete slabs. Settling can occur on your driveway, patio, pool deck or sidewalk due to various reasons. These reasons include soil erosion, poor compaction, or fluctuations in moisture levels.

When faced with uneven concrete surfaces, mudjacking is a viable solution. However, before diving into the process, it’s essential to understand the factors that influence mudjacking costs.

1.  Extent of Settlement:

The cost of mudjacking depends on how much the concrete has settled. The price of mudjacking varies based on the amount of settling in the concrete. If there is a significant amount of settling, the cost will be higher. This is because more materials and labor are required to lift and level the concrete.

Minor settling may only need a small amount of lifting grout. Significant settling may require more materials and labor-intensive work. Additionally, extreme settling may require more specialized equipment and techniques, increasing costs. Contractors typically assess the extent and cause of the concrete settlement during their initial inspection to provide an accurate cost estimate.

2.  Size and Thickness of the Slab:

The size and thickness of the concrete slab play a crucial role in determining the cost of mudjacking. Larger slabs will naturally require more material and labor to lift and level compared to smaller ones. Moreover, thicker slabs may need additional injections of lifting grout to ensure proper leveling.

Contractors consider the size and thickness of the slab. This helps them determine the amount of material needed and the time required to complete the job. Generally, larger or thicker slabs will incur higher mudjacking costs.

3.  Accessibility:

Accessibility to the affected area influences the overall cost of mudjacking. If the concrete has settled in a difficult-to-reach area or is blocked by landscaping, structures, or utilities, it can be challenging to access. In that case, the contractor may need to allocate more time and resources to complete the job.

In such cases, additional equipment or manual labor might be necessary to access and maneuver around the area effectively. Contractors consider accessibility challenges when estimating costs for mudjacking, as they affect the process’s efficiency and complexity.

4.  Travel Distance:

1. The travel distance to the site of the mudjacking project directly impacts the overall cost. When calculating their pricing, contractors often factor in transportation expenses, including fuel and vehicle maintenance.
2. Longer travel distances require more time and resources, increasing labor costs and potentially extending the project’s duration. Additionally, distant locations may necessitate overnight stays for the crew, adding accommodation expenses to the total cost.
3. Homeowners should consider the distance of travel when getting quotes for mudjacking services. This factor can greatly affect the total cost.
4. To save money on mudjacking, consider hiring local contractors or grouping multiple projects together in one location. This can lower travel expenses and make the overall cost more budget-friendly. This can help reduce travel costs and make the overall cost of mudjacking more affordable.

5.  Additional Repairs or Preparations:

Additional repairs or preparations may be necessary before or after mudjacking, which can affect the overall cost. For instance, if the surrounding area of the settled concrete needs grading or drainage improvements to prevent future settling, these tasks will incur additional costs. However, it is important not to overlook these steps to enhance the longevity of the repaired concrete. It’s essential to consider supplementary repairs or preparations when budgeting for mudjacking.

Mudjacking costs depend on several factors. These include the extent of settlement in the slab, its size, accessibility, and the distance to the job site. By understanding these factors, homeowners can better assess the scope of their mudjacking project and budget accordingly.

Before beginning the mudjacking process, it is best to consult with experienced contractors. They can provide a thorough inspection and cost estimate to ensure accuracy. This step is important for the successful completion of the project. While mudjacking offers a cost-effective solution for uneven concrete surfaces, investing in professional expertise and quality materials is essential for long-lasting results.

Concrete Chiropractor’s team of experts has decades of experience in mudjacking concrete. We have helped thousands of homeowners avoid the cost of concrete replacement.

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