The Best Ways to Level a Concrete Driveway

The importance of a well-maintained driveway is often underestimated, yet it’s vital to everyday life. Constant exposure to weather can lead to wear and tear, resulting in cracks and uneven surfaces. 

For homeowners, a damaged driveway is more than an eyesore; it’s a safety risk that can decrease property value and potentially damage vehicles. 

Concrete leveling is the answer, utilizing a method that injects material under the concrete to lift it back to its original position. 

This guide will delve into different methods for fixing and leveling your driveway, outline the pros and cons of each, and show why professional concrete leveling services are crucial. 

Top 4 Ways to Level a Driveway 

A durable driveway requires a solid foundation, particularly the soil beneath it, which needs to remain stable. Shifts or erosion in the soil can create voids, causing the driveway to sink. 

For effective driveway repair or leveling, ensuring soil stability is essential. Remember this when deciding on the best repair method for your driveway.

1. Mudjacking

What it is:

Also known as “slabjacking ,” Slurry (cement, water, soil, and sand mixture) is pumped underneath sunken concrete to raise it back to level.  

Pros:

• Fills up gaps and forms a sturdy base for concrete  

Cons:

• Requires large holes  
• Does not fully fill voids  
• Difficult to control material flow  
• Lengthy cure time  
• Cannot use concrete for several days  
• Added weight on top of soil  
• Temporary solution 

2. Polyurethane Foam Injection 

What it is:

Also known as “polyjacking,” “polylifting,” or PolyRenewal™ (our method), Polyurethane injection involves injecting a specially formulated foam material under the concrete which expands and lifts the slab.  

Pros:

• Lightweight foam  
• Smaller drill holes  
• Completely fills voids  
• Cures quickly (within 30 minutes)  
• Environmentally friendly 
• Stabilizes underlying soil  
• Smooth finish  
• Lasting results  

Cons:

• Slabs may not be 100% level  
• Visible cracks may remain  
• Variable soil conditions can impact its stability  

3. Replacement

What it is:

Removing old slabs and repouring cement may be necessary with severely damaged, crumbling, pitting, flaking, or staining concrete 

Pros:

• Brand new concrete slabs  
• Smooth finish  

Cons:

• Requires heavy equipment and excavation  
• Extended downtime (long cure time and inability to use driveway)  
• Heavy cement on top of unstable soil  
• Future soil and slab settlement likely  
• Expensive (sometimes costing $5,000 or more)

4. Asphalt Overlay  

What it is:

For minor sinking and cracks. An epoxy and sand slurry used to fill voids and level the surface on top. 

Pros:

• Relatively cheap
• Less disruptive method  
• Can be used to fill potholes  
• Smooth, consistent finish  

Cons:

• Added weight to soil  
• Worsens underlying issues  
• Not suitable for severely damaged slabs  
• Concrete’s expansion joints can cause shifting asphalt over time, leading to cracks and bumps  

FAQs

What causes driveway unevenness? 

Uneven driveways can result from soil settling or erosion, heavy usage, or extreme weather, leading to concrete shifting or sinking.

How do I select a driveway leveling company?

Choose a company with a solid track record, positive feedback, the right credentials, and a service guarantee. Request an estimate and compare offerings.

How should I prepare my driveway for leveling?

Clear the driveway of vehicles and any obstacles. The leveling company might give you more specific prep instructions.

Leah Leitow

Content Writer

Leah is a Content Writer for Groundworks with nearly ten years of experience working in the foundation repair industry. Her experience ranges from working with homeowners to find the right solution to training inspectors and staff. In her background as a Michigan journalist, she gained invaluable insight into people's lives throughout our state. Leah lives in metro Detroit with her husband and two sons.

_{Disclaimer: “Concrete leveling” means the process by which cracked, uneven concrete is stabilized, and in many cases lifted, by means of PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam. Foundation Recovery Systems does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.}