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The 4 Best Ways to Level a Concrete Driveway

The significance of a driveway in daily life cannot be overstated. But, being constantly exposed to the elements, driveways are prone to wear and tear, leading to issues such as sinking and uneven surfaces. 

For homeowners, the repercussions of a damaged driveway extend beyond aesthetics; they encompass potential tripping hazards, diminished property value, and harm to vehicles.  

The solution lies in concrete leveling, a repair technique that involves the injection of a material beneath the concrete to restore its original elevation. 

This guide will explore various strategies for repairing and leveling your driveway, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each method, and illustrate how expertise from local concrete leveling professionals can be invaluable. 

Top 4 Methods for Driveway Leveling 

A long-lasting driveway needs a strong base, mainly the soil underneath, which should stay firm over the years. But, this soil can shift or wash away, leaving gaps that cause the driveway to sink.  

To fix or level your driveway properly, it’s essential to make sure the soil is stable to avoid these problems in the future. Keep this in mind when choosing the best way to repair your driveway. 

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  

Is It Possible to Repair My Sunken Driveway on My Own? 

concrete work in progress

While these repair methods might seem simple, they’re best left to professionals. 

We don’t advise trying to level your concrete driveway by yourself. The techniques involved need specific tools and materials that are not only hard to get but can also be expensive. Operating heavy machinery and handling these materials can be risky without proper training. 

It’s safer to let experienced professionals handle the work. Reach out to your local concrete leveling specialists for a complimentary inspection and a free estimate tailored to your specific repair needs. 

3 Strategies to Stop Driveway Damage 

Driveway cracks and uneven surfaces might be frequent issues, but there are proactive steps you can take to safeguard your concrete: 

  • Balanced Weight Distribution: To prevent pressure points that lead to cracks or sinking, try to avoid placing heavy loads, like vehicles, in the same area of your driveway for extended periods. 
  • Enhanced Drainage Solutions: Make sure that your gutters and the landscape around your driveway are designed to channel water away from the surface, reducing the risk of water damage. 
  • Consistent Monitoring and Maintenance: Keep an eye on your driveway for any early signs of cracking or shifting. Early detection and intervention, with the assistance of professional concrete specialists, can avert more severe issues down the line. 

Get Professional Driveway Leveling Services from Foundation Systems of Michigan 

fsm employee meeting with a homeowner

Your driveway plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety, look, and value of your home. Ignoring small issues can lead to bigger, more expensive repairs down the line. For expert guidance and a free inspection, turn to the concrete leveling experts at Foundation Systems of Michigan. 

With more than 16 years of experience in driveway leveling across Michigan, we’re the go-to choice for homeowners seeking thorough assessments, personalized repair plans, and durable outcomes.  

Contact us to safeguard your property and rejuvenate your driveway. 

FAQs

Driveways can become uneven due to soil settlement or erosion underneath the concrete, heavy loads, or extreme weather conditions causing the concrete to shift or sink. 

Look for a company with experience, positive reviews, proper licensing and insurance, and a warranty on their work. Ask for an estimate and compare services. 

Remove any vehicles or obstacles from the driveway. The leveling company may provide additional instructions based on your specific situation.

Leah Leitow

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 Systems of Michigan does not guarantee that PolyRenewal™ can make your concrete perfectly level.

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