The Best Way to Level a Driveway 

It can be easy to overlook the importance of your driveway in everyday life, but you depend on it more than you may realize. Exposed to the elements, your driveway is susceptible to damage over time, resulting in sinking and uneven slabs. 

A driveway that’s cracked and uneven presents serious risks of tripping, a decrease in the value of your property, and potential harm to your vehicle. The solution to these problems lies in concrete leveling, a method that involves the injection of materials beneath the concrete to restore it to its original level. 

There are various methods available for repairing and leveling your driveway, all of which we will explore in this guide. Discover the advantages and disadvantages of each method and how experts in concrete leveling in your area can assist you. 

Top 4 Ways to Level a Driveway 

Driveways require a solid base—namely, the soil beneath—to keep them secure. The ground frequently shifts or wears away, creating gaps into which the concrete slabs may readily descend.  

In the process of fixing or leveling your driveway, securing the ground’s firmness is crucial. Without this, identical issues will persist. Taking this into account is essential when deciding on the best-known driveway restoration technique suitable 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 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 Ways to Prevent Driveway Cracks from Worsening 

Though driveway cracks and uneven surfaces are widespread issues, below are several strategies you can employ 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 Dry Pro for Expert Concrete Driveway Leveling 

FAQs

What leads to the unevenness or sinking of driveways?

The unevenness or sinking of driveways can result from a variety of reasons, such as erosion of the soil underneath, insufficient compaction of soil prior to laying down the driveway, the gradual settling of the ground, and problems with water runoff or poor drainage. These issues can create empty spaces beneath the surface, resulting in parts of the driveway sinking or developing an uneven appearance.

What are the indicators that my driveway requires leveling? 

Indicators that suggest the need for leveling your driveway are noticeable cracks, surfaces that are not level with sections appearing higher than others, water gathering in pools, and potential tripping hazards. Observing any of these signs should prompt you to contact Dry Pro Foundation & Crawlspace Specialists for a complimentary inspection and further information on the advantages of driveway leveling.

What is the financial implication of leveling a driveway?

The cost to level a driveway is influenced by several aspects, such as the severity of the damage, the repair technique selected, and the expenses associated with labor, materials, and necessary permits. Prices for leveling a driveway typically vary between $800 and $4,000, or possibly more. The most accurate way to determine the cost for your specific driveway leveling needs is to contact Dry Pro Foundation & Crawlspace Specialists for a no-cost inspection and a quote that comes without any obligation.

Disclaimer: “Concrete leveling” means the process by which cracked, uneven concrete is stabilized, and in most cases lifted, by means of PolyRenewal™ polyurethane foam. [BRAND] does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make any and/or every square inch of your concrete perfectly level.