Concrete Repair Cost (Cracks, Resurfacing, Lifting & Replacement)
Last updated: February 2026
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Run project numbers with the Concrete Driveway Calculator.
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For related planning context, read Concrete vs Gravel Driveway.
Practical repair pricing ranges, decision rules, and long-term cost tradeoffs for homeowners and contractors.
For driveway-specific slab specs, reference the Concrete Driveway Thickness Guide. If you are estimating lifecycle timing before repair bids, use How Long Does Concrete Last and align repair windows with the Concrete Curing Time Calculator.
Quick takeaway
- Minor crack sealing often starts around $3-$10/lf.
- Resurfacing often lands near $3-$10/sq ft.
- Full replacement commonly runs $8-$20/sq ft.
Direct answer
Concrete repair usually runs $3 to $10 per linear foot for crack sealing, about $3 to $10 per sq ft for resurfacing, and roughly $8 to $20 per sq ft for full replacement. Lifting methods often land near $5 to $25 per sq ft depending on slab condition. For mix pricing context behind replacement bids, review concrete cost per yard.
Repair Cost Table
| Repair Type | Typical Cost Range | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crack sealing | $3-$10/lf | Narrow, non-structural cracks | Fast and low-cost; not a fix for settlement or slab movement. |
| Crack stitching / epoxy | $500-$2,500+ per repair zone | Wider, active, or deeper crack lines | Higher cost but stronger than simple sealants when done correctly. |
| Patching / spall repair | $5-$20/sq ft | Localized surface damage and broken edges | Prep quality controls lifespan; poor bonding leads to repeat failures. |
| Resurfacing / overlay | $3-$10/sq ft | Cosmetic wear and shallow scaling on stable slabs | Won't solve major heaving or base failure. |
| Lifting (mudjacking / poly) | $5-$25/sq ft | Sunken slabs with otherwise salvageable concrete | Poly often costs more; method choice depends on voids, access, and moisture. |
| Full replacement | $8-$20/sq ft | Severe damage, repeated failures, structural instability | Highest upfront cost, but can reset long-term maintenance cycle. |
Repair vs Replace
- Choose repair when: defects are localized, slab elevation is mostly stable, and base failure is limited.
- Choose replacement when: there is widespread cracking, repeated settlement, severe spalling, or multiple failed past repairs.
- Choose replacement sooner when: projected repair cycles over 10-20 years approach full replacement cost.
- Check utility: if function and safety are compromised, replacement often has better long-term value.
400 sq ft and 800 sq ft examples
400 sq ft patio (surface wear): resurfacing at $3-$10/sq ft is about $1,200-$4,000. Full replacement at $8-$20/sq ft is about $3,200-$8,000.
800 sq ft driveway (settlement + cracking): lifting at $5-$25/sq ft is about $4,000-$20,000, depending on lift method and void conditions. Full replacement at $8-$20/sq ft is about $6,400-$16,000.
Use exact dimensions and thickness assumptions in the Concrete Driveway Calculator before comparing repair and replacement bids.
10-20 year cost perspective
Repeated low-cost fixes can become high-cost ownership if underlying drainage, soil support, or slab design problems are unresolved. A slab that needs major repair every few years may exceed replacement value over a 10 to 20 year period.
Compare cumulative expected repairs, maintenance downtime, and resale impact against a single replacement scope. If you are near replacement cost already, replacement usually provides a cleaner long-term reset.
Common mistakes
- Choosing the cheapest patch without diagnosing base or drainage issues.
- Comparing unit prices only and ignoring prep, access, and finish blending.
- Resurfacing slabs with active movement or unresolved settlement.
- Skipping multi-year cost comparisons before approving repeat repairs.
- Ignoring alternatives and lifecycle tradeoffs from this Concrete vs Gravel Driveway.
For quick quantity planning while scoping options, use the Concrete Slab Calculator.
Related Concrete Guides
- How Long Does Concrete Last
- Concrete Slab Reinforcement
FAQ
How much does concrete crack repair usually cost?
Most minor crack sealing jobs land around $3 to $10 per linear foot. Wider, moving, or structural cracks can cost much more when epoxy injection or stitching is needed. Final pricing depends on depth, access, and prep work.
Is resurfacing cheaper than replacing concrete?
Yes, resurfacing is usually cheaper upfront than full replacement. It works best when the slab is mostly stable and damage is surface-level. If the base is failing or slabs are heaving, resurfacing can fail early.
What is the cost difference between mudjacking and polyjacking?
Mudjacking is often lower cost per square foot, while polyjacking is usually priced higher. Poly can offer cleaner installation and lighter fill material with fast cure. The better option depends on slab condition, void size, and site access.
When should I replace concrete instead of repairing it?
Replacement is usually the better investment when there is major settlement, repeated movement, widespread spalling, or multiple failed repairs. Repair is better for localized defects on an otherwise sound slab. The key is whether the slab remains structurally stable.
How long do concrete repairs typically last?
Repair lifespan varies by method and root cause. Well-executed crack repairs and lifting can last years, but unresolved drainage or base issues shorten performance quickly. Durable results depend on fixing cause, not just symptoms.
How do I estimate repair costs for a 400 or 800 sq ft slab?
Start with unit pricing by repair type, then add prep, mobilization, and finish blending costs. Larger slabs often reduce per-square-foot pricing, but total cost still rises with area. Comparing repair totals against replacement bids gives the clearest decision.
Can repeated repairs cost more than replacement over time?
Yes, repeated short-cycle repairs can exceed replacement value over a 10 to 20 year window. This is common when underlying drainage, soil movement, or thickness issues are never corrected. Track cumulative spend before approving another patch cycle.