Driveway Leveling Methods
A concrete driveway is a critical feature of any home, yet it is often overlooked. Weather exposure, heavy loads, and aging contribute to wear and tear, leading to sinking and uneven surfaces. Concrete leveling methods potentially lift these surfaces back to their original position, creating a worry-free environment.
This page outlines various driveway leveling approaches, the pros and cons, and the value of professional concrete driveway solutions.
Top 4 Driveway Leveling Techniques
Several driveway leveling methods exist. The most common include:
Mudjacking
Mudjacking, also known as slabjacking, involves pumping a slurry material—mixed with cement, water, soil, and sand—underneath sunken concrete to raise it back to level.
Pros
- Fills gaps
- It forms a sturdy concrete base
Cons
- Slabs may not be 100% level
- Requires drilling large holes
- Does not thoroughly fill voids
- Challenging to manage the material flow
- Lengthy cure time
- Cannot use concrete for several days
- Adds extra weight to the soil and may cause sinking
- Temporary solution
Polyurethane Foam Injection
Polyurethane foam injections are called polyjacking, poly lifting, or PolyRenewal™ (Groundworks method). This foam is injected beneath the concrete, where it expands and lifts the slab.
Pros
- Smaller drill holes
- Fills voids completely
- Clean, mess-free process
- Quick curing (within 30 minutes)
- Allows same-day use of treated concrete area
- Environmentally friendly
- Smooth finish
- Lightweight foam minimizes added pressure on the soil.
- Longer-lasting results
Cons
- The concrete will be closer to its original level but not guaranteed to be completely level.
- Some surface cracks may remain visible.
Complete Slab Replacement
Complete slab replacement, which involves removing old slabs and repouring new concrete, may be the only solution for severely damaged, crumbling, pitted, flaking, or heavily stained surfaces.
Pros
- Brand new concrete slabs
- Smooth, seamless finish
Cons
- Requires heavy equipment and excavation
- Extended downtime (long cure time renders driveway unusable)
- Heavy cement weighs down unstable soil
- Future soil and slab settlement likely
- Expensive
Asphalt Overlay
For minor sinking and cracks, an asphalt overlay—an epoxy and sand slurry—can be used to fill voids and level the surface on top.
Pros
- Relatively inexpensive
- Less disruptive method
- It can fill potholes
- Smooth, seamless finish
Cons
- Adds weight to the soil
- Exacerbates underlying issues
- Unsuitable for severely damaged concrete slabs
- Concrete expansion joints may cause asphalt shifts over time, causing cracks and bumps.
Can I Fix My Sunken Driveway Myself?
Driveway leveling may seem straightforward, but it’s best left to professionals. DIY attempts are not recommended, as the process requires specialized tools and materials that are costly and difficult to access. Without proper expertise, handling heavy equipment and materials can also be hazardous.
Long-term repair also requires addressing the underlying cause of concrete driveway damage: unstable soil. Erosion can cause voids, sinking, and cracks. Proper concrete driveway repair, or leveling, requires addressing the underlying soil to prevent future issues.
For safety and peace of mind, trust Groundworks’ concrete leveling experts. Contact us for a free inspection and an estimate tailored to your needs and budget.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Driveway Damage
While driveway issues like cracks and unevenness are common, there are preventative actions you can implement to protect your concrete:
- Even Weight Distribution: Prevent cracking and sinking by avoiding parking heavy vehicles in the same spot repeatedly.
- Improved Drainage: Ensure your exterior drainage system, including gutters, downspouts, and landscaping, directs water away from your driveway to lessen water-induced damage.
- Regular Inspection and Upkeep: Regularly check your concrete driveway for signs of wear or change. Addressing problems early, with the help of concrete experts like Groundworks, can prevent more significant problems later.
Secure Professional Driveway Leveling Services from Groundworks
Your driveway’s condition significantly impacts your home’s safety, aesthetics, and value. Don’t overlook minor issues that could escalate into costly repairs. For professional advice and a free inspection, turn to Groundworks, your driveway leveling experts.
Groundworks is the trusted choice for homeowners nationwide, offering thorough inspections, tailored repair strategies, and durable solutions.
Contact us today to protect and enhance your concrete driveway.
Driveway Leveling FAQs
Concrete leveling can be performed in most weather conditions, but dry conditions are ideal. Long term cold, below zero, weather may also result in delays.
Regular maintenance includes cleaning, inspections, and ensuring proper drainage to prevent future sinking.
It depends on the method selected. Polyurethane foam injection addresses the soil instability or voids under the slab by stabilizing the soil beneath it.
Leah Leitow
Disclaimer: “Concrete leveling” means the process by which cracked, uneven concrete is stabilized, and in many cases lifted, by means of PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam. Groundworks does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.