Leveling a Concrete Driveway: Methods, Prevention, & DIY

Top 4 Methods for Driveway Leveling 

A dependable driveway relies on a solid foundation, primarily the stability of the soil beneath it. Over time, any shift or erosion in this soil can create voids, resulting in a sinking driveway. 

Therefore, ensuring the soil’s stability is crucial for the effective repair or leveling of your driveway. Keep this in mind as you choose the best repair approach. 

1. Mudjacking

What it is:

Also known as “slabjacking ,” mudjacking uses a slurry formula (cement, water, soil, and sand mixture) which 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  
• Long 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:

Driveway replacement involves demolishing old slabs and repouring cement  in its place which 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:

Asphalt overlay is used for minor sinking and cracks.  An epoxy and sand slurry used to fill voids and level the surface on top.  

Pros:

• Relatively inexpensive  
• 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  

Can I Fix My Sunken Driveway Myself? 

3 Strategies to Prevent Driveway Damage 

Driveway issues are not uncommon, but proactive measures can significantly stop concrete damage from getting worse: 

• Balanced Weight Distribution: Prevent stress and potential cracking or sinking by avoiding the continuous placement of heavy loads in one spot on your driveway. 
• Optimal Drainage: Ensure that your gutters and landscape design effectively divert water away from your driveway to prevent water-induced damage. 
• Routine Inspection and Upkeep: Monitor your driveway for early signs of wear or damage. Promptly addressing these signs with the expertise of concrete specialists can help avoid more extensive problems. 

Choose Professional Driveway Leveling with Innovative Basement Authority 

FAQs

Can all driveways be leveled? 

While many can, extreme damage or concrete crumbling may require replacement. A professional assessment can determine the best course of action. 

Is driveway leveling environmentally friendly? 

Methods like polyurethane foam injection are considered eco-friendly due to the materials used and the process’s ability to conserve the existing concrete.  

Will driveway leveling fix the cracks? 

Leveling can close or significantly reduce the appearance of cracks, but some may still be visible. Additional cosmetic repairs can be done to close the cracks.

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. Innovative Basement Authority does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.}