Local Project · Kansas City Area
Driveway Leveling Fixes a Bad Step-Up at a Walkway
One section of this driveway had sunk enough to create an awkward step-up where it met the walkway. The goal was to improve the transition while keeping the existing concrete in place.
Settled concrete does not always need to be torn out. On this project, controlled polyurethane lifting brought the sunken driveway section closer to the walkway and produced a cleaner, safer transition.
The problem: a sunken driveway beside the walkway
A section of the driveway had settled and created a noticeable height difference at the adjoining walkway. Changes in elevation like this can be uncomfortable to walk across and may become a trip concern for homeowners and visitors.
The surrounding concrete was still serviceable, so replacing the entire section would have meant removing usable concrete along with the settled portion. The homeowner wanted a practical repair that addressed the uneven transition without unnecessary work.
The evaluation: lift what can be saved
Before lifting, we evaluated the slab condition, the amount of settlement and how the driveway met the walkway. Concrete leveling is most appropriate when the slab remains solid enough to raise and the primary problem is lost support or settlement beneath it.
We explained what the lifting process could reasonably accomplish and focused the scope on the area that needed correction. Every slab responds differently, so the objective is a controlled improvement rather than an unrealistic promise of brand-new concrete.
The repair: controlled polyurethane concrete lifting
Small injection ports were placed through the settled section. Polyurethane material was then injected beneath the driveway, where it expanded to help fill the void and raise the concrete in controlled increments.
The lift was monitored carefully as the driveway moved toward a better alignment with the walkway. Once the desired improvement was achieved, the injection ports were patched and the work area was cleaned.
The result: a smoother, better-blended transition
The driveway section was brought back closer to the walkway height, reducing the bad step-up and improving the appearance of the transition. Because the original slab stayed in place, the repaired area continued to blend naturally with the surrounding concrete.
The homeowner also avoided the demolition, debris removal, new concrete placement and longer disruption involved in complete replacement. The job stayed focused on the repair that was actually needed.
What this project shows homeowners
A sunken driveway or walkway edge is worth evaluating before scheduling replacement. When the concrete is in suitable condition, driveway leveling can improve an uneven transition while preserving the slab you already own.
Polyurethane lifting may also be appropriate for settled sidewalks, patios, porches and steps. Severely cracked, crumbling or structurally deteriorated concrete may still require replacement. Read our polyurethane concrete lifting guide to learn more about the process.
Have a driveway creating a trip hazard?
Metro Wide Concrete Leveling serves homeowners and properties throughout the Kansas City metro. Send photos, approximate measurements and the project address for a straightforward evaluation.
Qualifying work is backed by our 8-year warranty. Results vary based on slab condition, soil support, drainage and the amount of settlement.
Don’t Replace It... Raise It!
