Polyjacking is a concrete leveling technique that utilizes the injection of high-density polyurethane foam beneath a settled concrete slab. The process involves drilling small holes through the concrete, through which the two-part polymer is injected. The mixture reacts, expands, fills voids, and gently raises the slab back to its desired level. This method is an effective alternative to replacing entire sections of concrete that have sunk due to soil erosion or inadequate base compaction. The cost for this specialized work varies significantly based on technical and logistical factors unique to each project.
Typical Price Ranges for Polyjacking
The price for polyjacking is most frequently calculated on a per-square-foot basis. Homeowners generally pay between \$5 and \$25 per square foot for the service, reflecting the varying degrees of work required. Most contractors impose a minimum project charge, typically between \$900 and \$1,200, to cover the mobilization of specialized equipment and crews.
Project size and type heavily influence the total expenditure, with smaller jobs often having a higher cost per square foot due to the minimum charge. For instance, a small sidewalk repair might cost approximately \$1,015. A more substantial project, like leveling a large section of a residential driveway, can easily reach \$5,670 or more. Lifting a garage floor or a large interior slab, which involves more complexity, can sometimes exceed \$6,000 for extensive work. These figures are general industry averages and are subject to change based on the specific conditions of the concrete and the underlying soil.
Key Factors Determining Total Cost
The scope and severity of the concrete settlement are the most significant factors influencing the total cost. The depth of the void beneath the slab directly determines the volume of high-density polyurethane foam required for the lift. A slab that has sunk several inches due to a large wash-out will require significantly more material than one needing only a slight correction, leading to a higher material cost component.
The technical difficulty of the lift also plays a substantial role in the pricing structure. Labor often accounts for 70% to 80% of the total expense, and the time required for a precise, controlled lift impacts this cost. Lifting structural slabs, such as those supporting load-bearing walls or large machinery, demands a slower, more meticulous injection process to prevent cracking, thus increasing the labor time and total price.
The type of concrete slab and its accessibility further complicate the work. A small, easily exposed sidewalk panel is simpler to manage than a large interior basement floor. Access to the work area contributes to the final quote, as slabs in hard-to-reach locations require more time and specialized equipment maneuvering. Projects involving indoor spaces or limited overhead clearance often necessitate additional preparation and slow down the injection process.
Geographic location introduces cost variance based on regional labor rates and the local market price for the proprietary polyurethane foam material. Contractors in areas with a higher cost of living or limited competition may charge rates at the upper end of the established range.
Polyjacking Cost Comparison to Alternative Methods
The initial cost of polyjacking is positioned between its two primary alternatives: traditional mudjacking and complete concrete slab replacement. Mudjacking, which involves injecting a cementitious slurry mix, is typically the most budget-friendly option, with costs ranging from approximately \$3 to \$8 per square foot. The material cost of the specialized polyurethane foam is substantially higher than the sand and cement used in mudjacking, making polyjacking the more expensive choice upfront.
Polyjacking offers distinct advantages that justify the higher price when considering long-term value. The foam is significantly lighter than the mudjacking slurry, which reduces the load on the underlying soil and minimizes the risk of future settlement. The fast curing time of the polyurethane foam allows the leveled surface to be used almost immediately, often within 15 minutes. In contrast, the cementitious slurry requires a much longer period to fully cure and stabilize.
Compared to a full concrete replacement, polyjacking represents a considerable cost savings. A complete tear-out and repour of a sunken concrete surface can cost anywhere from \$4,500 for a small area to over \$18,000 for a large driveway. Polyjacking avoids the high expenses associated with demolition, debris removal, new material, and extensive labor, often costing 30% to 50% less than a full replacement. The non-invasive nature and speed of the repair also prevent the prolonged disruption and landscaping damage that often accompany a full concrete removal project.