A useful comparison does not declare one product the winner. It asks how material, injection control, access, void, water and price fit the actual slab. A provider that offers only one method can still be suitable, but should explain why that method fits and where it does not.
What goes below the slab?
Mudjacking places a pumpable cementitious or aggregate slurry. Polyurethane lifting places an expanding product. The product difference affects holes, equipment, placement, use timing and price.
Ask for the real slurry or foam description. Generic “mud” and “poly” labels do not support density, water, strength or cure claims.
How do the main fields compare?
| Field | Mudjacking | Polyurethane lifting |
|---|---|---|
| Injection holes | Usually larger | Usually smaller |
| Material | Pumpable slurry | Expanding product |
| Price sources | Often lower | Often higher and wider |
| Large void | Slurry volume may be economical | Product quantity can raise price |
| Visible surface | Larger patches | Smaller patches |
| Use timing | Mix and site specific | Product and site specific |
| Main control question | Slurry placement and access | Expansion and product control |
The table is a starting point. Require the provider to fill in actual product, hole pattern and use window.
What do 2026 prices show?
HomeAdvisor reports $3–$6 per square foot for mudjacking and much higher foam examples on some surfaces. Angi’s July 2026 guide reports $3–$6 for mudjacking and $5–$25 for foam.
Those are national source figures. A small Peoria job may be driven by a minimum charge. A large void, difficult access, public edge or separate water work can change either method. See the 2026 cost guide.
When may mudjacking fit?
Slurry may fit accessible, serviceable larger panels where hole size and placement are acceptable. It can be economical when volume matters. Ask how the provider handles open edges, drains, cracks and unknown voids.
Cold or frozen conditions may limit the schedule. Ask the provider to state the planned date, material and use window.
When may polyurethane fit?
Foam may fit visible surfaces, smaller-hole needs, tight access or a provider’s controlled injection plan. Ask for the product data used for expansion, water and return-to-use claims.
Small ports alone do not justify the premium. Slab condition, target, void, drainage and provider skill remain part of the decision.
When is neither method right?
Replacement may be clearer for severe surface loss, unstable fragments, failed reinforcement, buried utility work or geometry that cannot drain safely. Grinding may suit a small stable lip. Joint sealing may limit water entry. Each option does a different job.
Building walls and footings need a separate assessment. Neither flatwork method should be presented as a general foundation repair.
How does water affect both methods?
Follow roof and yard water before choosing material. Lifting can change surface flow, while downspouts, drains, ditches and eroded edges may need separate work. No fill product makes a bad water route irrelevant.
Ask the provider to draw current and proposed water arrows. Add drainage and joint work as separate rows.
What should both bids share?
- identical panel list and crack map;
- current and target elevations;
- fixed edges and expected residual lip;
- material and injection pattern;
- equipment and hose route;
- hole patches and cleanup;
- product or mix-specific use timing;
- water and base prerequisites;
- response to hidden void or incomplete lift; and
- exclusions and written work terms.
Without those fields, two totals do not represent the same result.
Can both methods appear on one property?
Yes. A provider may propose slurry for accessible driveway panels and foam for a visible patio. Price each group separately and explain the reason. A mixed plan should not hide duplicate setup charges or omit one method’s terms.
Make a one-line choice note
Write the chosen method, product or mix, and the reason. Keep it short. “Small ports on visible patio” is useful. “Better product” is not.
Add the target and water task. Save the note with the quote. If the method changes, ask the provider to update the reason and price.
Frequently asked questions
Is polyurethane worth the higher price?
It can be when its product, holes, access or use window solves an address need. Compare the same target and related work before deciding.
Does mudjacking always last less time?
No useful lifespan can be set from method alone. Product, base, drainage, installation, loads and future movement all matter.
Can either method be used in winter?
Conditions and products control the schedule. Ask the provider to state the temperature and ground limits for its actual system.
Which quote should I choose?
Choose only after the panel list, target, material, water work, exclusions and provider terms are clear.