Should I Repair, Resurface, or Replace My Concrete Driveway?
If your concrete driveway is cracked, uneven, or starting to sink, you’re probably wondering what to do next.
Quick Answer
Repair your driveway if the concrete is still solid but uneven.
Resurface it if the surface is worn or lightly cracked but level.
Replace it only if the concrete is badly broken or crumbling.
In many cases, professional polyurethane concrete raising (polyjacking) can restore your driveway’s level and appearance for far less money than a full replacement.
1. Concrete Driveway Repair
If your driveway is in good shape overall but one or more sections have sunk or become uneven, concrete repair is usually the best choice.
Most sinking happens when soil under the slab settles or washes away. The concrete itself is fine—it just needs to be lifted back up.
Benchmark Concrete Raising uses polyurethane foam injection, also called polyjacking, to fill empty space under the slab and gently lift it back to its original height.
Benefits of Concrete Repair
No demolition or tear-out required
Fast, clean process (often done in one day)
Driveway usable within hours
Long-lasting, stable results
More affordable than replacement
Best for: driveways that are solid but uneven.
2. Concrete Driveway Resurfacing
If your driveway is even but looks worn—maybe it’s faded, lightly cracked, or has surface scaling—resurfacing can refresh its appearance.
Resurfacing applies a thin layer of cement-based material over the existing slab to create a smoother, newer look.
Benefits of Resurfacing
Improves appearance
Covers minor surface flaws
Costs less than full replacement
Limitations
Resurfacing will not fix uneven or unstable slabs. If the concrete underneath is sinking, a resurfaced top layer will crack again.
Best for: driveways that look rough but are still flat and solid.
3. Concrete Driveway Replacement
If your driveway has major cracking, missing sections, or crumbling edges, it may be beyond repair. In these cases, replacement is the only lasting fix.
Replacement means removing the old slab and pouring new concrete. It’s the highest-cost option but sometimes the only safe, long-term solution.
Signs You Need a New Driveway
Large, deep cracks across slabs
Concrete breaking apart or flaking severely
Rebar or gravel showing through
Heaving or uneven sections too damaged to lift
Best for: driveways that are structurally failed or unsafe.
How to Decide What’s Right for You
Driveway ConditionBest OptionTypical CostLifespanSolid but uneven
Repair (Polyjacking) $$ 10–15+ years Even but surface-damaged
Resurface $$ 5–10 yearsCracked or crumbling
Replace $$$$ 20–30 years
If you’re not sure, start with a professional inspection.
Many Minnesota homeowners discover they can repair instead of replace, saving thousands while extending the life of their driveway.
Benchmark Concrete Raising provides honest evaluations and clear pricing. If your driveway can be safely lifted, we’ll show you exactly how. If it needs replacement, we’ll tell you that, too.
Why Minnesota Homeowners Choose Benchmark Concrete Raising
Family-owned and locally operated
Serving Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding suburbs
Hydro-insensitive polyurethane foam designed for our freeze-thaw climate
Fast, clean, and non-invasive repair process
Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden costs
Experienced team that stands behind every job
