A smooth, even driveway is not just aesthetically pleasing; it boosts curb appeal, provides safer parking, and can help prevent damage to your vehicle. However, driveways can become uneven over time due to various factors. This post will guide you through the essentials of driveway leveling, an important service offered by Signature Polyjacking.
What Is Driveway Leveling?
Driveway leveling, or concrete leveling, is the process of correcting uneven concrete surfaces. It is a practical alternative to digging up the old driveway and replacing the concrete, saving time and money while restoring the surface’s functionality.
At Signature Polyjacking, we use polyurethane foam to raise and stabilize your driveway. We inject the foam beneath the driveway, which expands and hardens to lift the concrete back to its original position or as close as possible.
What Causes Concrete Driveways To Become Uneven?
Several factors contribute to the gradual unevenness of concrete driveways:
- Soil Erosion: Rainwater or garden irrigation can erode the soil beneath your driveway over time. As the soil washes away, it can cause the driveway to sink or become uneven, making it unsightly and potentially hazardous for vehicles and pedestrians.
- Poor Compaction: If the soil wasn’t compacted adequately before the driveway was poured, it might settle unevenly over time. This settling can lead to various issues, including cracks and dips in the surface, which can compromise the driveway’s integrity and may require costly repairs.
- Tree Roots: Roots from nearby trees can grow under the driveway and push the concrete upward, creating cracks and causing unevenness in the surface. This can be particularly problematic if the trees are large and their extensive root systems lead to severe damage.
- Freeze-Thaw Cycles: In regions with cold climates, the freeze-thaw cycle can cause the ground to expand and contract during seasonal changes. This constant movement can lead to concrete settling unevenly, resulting in cracks and uneven surfaces that can worsen over time if not addressed promptly.
- Expansive Soil: Expansive soil contains a lot of clay and because of this it swells as it absorbs moisture and then shrinks as it dries out. This creates movement under the driveway and can, over time, cause it to become uneven.
- Improper Installation: It happens. If your driveway wasn’t installed correctly, it could easily become uneven eventually.
How Is Driveway Leveling Done?
The driveway leveling process involves several key steps to ensure an effective and lasting result.
- Drill small holes: The first step involves drilling small, dime-sized holes into the uneven concrete slab.
- Inject foam under the slab: The polyurethane foam is carefully injected under the slab using these holes. As the foam expands, it fills voids beneath the slab, exerting gentle pressure and lifting the concrete back to its desired position.
- 15 minutes later, the slab is ready for use: The foam quickly hardens, effectively stabilizing the area and creating a solid foundation to prevent future settling.
This infographic provides more detail on the polyjacking process:
How Does Polyurethane Foam Compare To Mudjacking?
Polyurethane foam is a superior alternative to mudjacking for several reasons, including the following:
- It’s lightweight: Unlike mudjacking, which uses a heavy cement slurry mixture that adds weight to the soil, polyurethane foam is very lightweight.
- It cures quickly: Polyurethane foam cures quickly, typically within 15 minutes, allowing the slab to be ready for use again in no time, which significantly reduces downtime.
- It’s water-resistant: Polyurethane foam is also more resistant to water. Unlike the slurry used in mudjacking, it won’t wash away.
How Long Does Driveway Leveling Last?
The lifespan of a leveled driveway depends on several factors, such as the quality of the materials used, the skill of the contractor, and the amount of traffic it sees. Of course, regular maintenance and making any necessary repairs are key to ensuring its longevity.
Is Concrete Lifting Foam Suitable For All Uneven Driveways?
Concrete lifting foam is an excellent solution for most uneven driveways. However, replacing the slab might be the better option if the concrete is severely cracked or deteriorated. Signature Polyjacking can provide a professional assessment to help determine the best approach.
Cost Of Leveling A Driveway
The cost of driveway leveling can vary significantly based on several factors, including the size of the area that requires leveling, the extent of the unevenness, and regional pricing norms that can influence labor and material costs. Generally, a larger area with considerable unevenness will incur higher costs due to the increased labor and materials needed to achieve a level surface.
Unless there’s severe damage, driveway leveling is typically more cost-effective than replacing an entire driveway, which involves digging up the old driveway and pouring a new one. By choosing to level rather than replace, homeowners can save money while improving the safety and appearance of their driveways.
Can You Level Your Driveway On Your Own?
While the DIY option might be tempting, we recommend professional driveway leveling. Proper equipment and expertise are crucial to ensure the job is done safely and effectively. DIY attempts at driveway leveling may end with unsatisfactory results and could cost more in the long run if professional intervention becomes necessary.
Ways To Prevent Concrete Driveways From Becoming Uneven
- Proper Drainage: It’s crucial to ensure that water drains away from your driveway effectively. This helps prevent soil erosion, which can undermine the stability of your driveway over time. Consider installing drainage systems or grading the landscape to direct water flow appropriately.
- Tree Management: When planting trees, be mindful of their placement in relation to your driveway. Planting them at a safe distance will help avoid root intrusion, which can cause cracks and structural damage to your driveway. Research the mature size of trees to make informed decisions.
- Regular Maintenance: Inspect your driveway regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks or uneven surfaces. Addressing these issues promptly not only prolongs the life of your driveway but also ensures safety for vehicles and pedestrians.
- Compaction: During the installation of your driveway, ensure that the soil is adequately compacted. This step is essential for creating a solid foundation that can withstand weight and prevent sinking or shifting over time. Proper compaction techniques will significantly enhance the durability and longevity of your driveway.
Take Action Today!
Don’t wait for the unevenness to worsen. Ensure your driveway remains safe and visually appealing with professional driveway leveling. Contact Signature Polyjacking today for a consultation and take the first step towards a smoother, safer driveway!
