The Best Way to Level a Driveway 

Top 4 Ways to Level a Driveway 

Driveways require a solid base—like well-compacted soil—to provide stability. However, the ground may shift or wear away over time, creating gaps that the concrete panels may readily fall into.  

In the process of repairing or leveling your driveway, stabilizing the underlying earth is critical. Without addressing the stability of the soil, the same issues will persist. Taking this into account is crucial when deciding on the best driveway repair technique for your residence. 

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 is 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 is 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 is 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 Ways to Prevent Driveway Cracks from Worsening 

Driveway cracks and irregularities frequently occur, however, here are several strategies to prevent them and safeguard your concrete: 

• Weight Distribution: Avoid heavy loads on the driveway—such as vehicles continuously parked in the same spot—that could cause pressure points, leading to cracking or sinking.  
• Proper Drainage: Ensure downspouts and surrounding landscaping drain water away from your driveway. 
• Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect the driveway for small cracks or signs of movement. Address these issues promptly with the help of local concrete experts to prevent significant problems. 

Contact Foundation Support Specialists for Expert Concrete Driveway Leveling 

FAQs

What are the reasons behind driveways becoming uneven or experiencing sinking?

The unevenness or sinking of driveways is attributable to various causes, such as the erosion of soil, inadequate soil compaction prior to the installation of the driveway, the gradual settling of soil with time, along with issues related to excessive water runoff or poor drainage. These issues may create voids under the concrete, leading to the sinking or unevenness of parts of the driveway.

How do I recognize if my driveway requires leveling? 

Indicators that your driveway might need leveling are noticeable cracks, disparities in surface level where parts of the driveway are elevated compared to others, accumulation of water, and potential tripping hazards. Observing any of these conditions suggests it might be time to reach out to Foundation Support Specialists for a complimentary inspection and further information on the advantages of driveway leveling.

What is the financial outlay for leveling a driveway?

The cost associated with leveling a driveway is influenced by numerous aspects, such as the severity of the damage, the repair technique selected, and the expenses related to labor, materials, and necessary permits. Typically, the price for leveling a driveway can vary, starting from $800 and potentially exceeding $4,000. The most accurate way to determine the cost for your specific driveway leveling needs is to initiate contact with Foundation Support Specialists for a cost-free inspection and a non-binding estimate on the repair.

Phillip Mazzotta

_{*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 Support Specialists does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.}