Concrete Driveway Leveling: The 4 Best Options for Repair

Top 4 Ways to Level a Driveway 

Driveways require a solid foundation—namely, the soil beneath them—to endure over time. The soil may settle or erode, creating gaps that the concrete slabs can sink into.  

To repair or level your driveway effectively, stabilizing the underlying soil is essential. Without addressing this, the same issues will persist. Considering the soil’s stability is crucial when selecting the most suitable driveway repair technique for your house. 

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 stained 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 is 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 

While it’s not unusual to see cracks and uneven surfaces in driveways, there are several strategies to prevent 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: Make certain that downspouts and nearby landscaping effectively channel water away from your driveway. 
• Regular Inspection: Routinely check your driveway for minor cracks or indications of shifting. Quickly tackle these problems by consulting with local concrete professionals to avert major issues. 

Contact Tar Heel Basement Systems for Expert Concrete Driveway Leveling 

FAQs

What leads to the unevenness or sinking of driveways? 

The unevenness or sinking of driveways can be attributed to a variety of factors, such as the erosion of soil, inadequate soil compaction prior to installation, the gradual settling of the ground over time, and problems with water runoff or drainage. These issues may cause spaces to form under the concrete, resulting in parts of the driveway sinking or becoming uneven. 

What indicators suggest that my driveway needs to be leveled?

Indications that your driveway might require leveling include noticeable cracks, an uneven surface where parts of the driveway are not level with others, water accumulation, and potential tripping hazards. Should you observe any of these conditions, it’s advisable to reach out to Tar Heel Basement Systems for a complimentary inspection and further information on the advantages of driveway leveling.

What is the cost range for leveling a driveway?

The cost to level a driveway is influenced by various factors, such as the severity of the damage, the repair method selected, and the expenses associated with labor, materials, and permits. Generally, the price for driveway leveling can vary between $800 to $4,000 or more. For precise pricing tailored to your specific leveling project, contacting Tar Heel Basement Systems for a free inspection and a no-obligation estimate is recommended.

Holly Richards-Purpura

Content Writer

Holly is a Content Writer for Groundworks who has written and edited web content for the foundation services industry for almost 10 years. With a background in journalism, her passion for the written word runs deep. Holly lives in Columbus, OH, with her husband. Along with educating homeowners, she also has a big heart for the Big Apple.

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