Why Is My Concrete Driveway Sinking?
Sinking Concrete Driveway? Here's How to Fix It Without Breaking the Bank
An uneven concrete driveway is more than just a visual blemish — it’s often a sign of deeper, hidden issues beneath the surface. Over time, residential driveways can develop sinking slabs, cracks, and even dangerous tripping hazards. But why does this happen, and how can you fix it affordably while ensuring the problem doesn’t return?
At NV Waterproofing and Foundation Repair, we specialize in identifying the source of sinking concrete and restoring it using advanced solutions like PolyLevel® polyurethane foam. If you’re concerned about the condition of your driveway, read on to learn what causes these issues and how we can fix them effectively.
Why Concrete Driveways Sink, Crack, and Settle
The integrity of your driveway depends largely on the stability of the soil beneath it. When that soil shifts or erodes, the concrete above inevitably suffers. Here are the leading causes of sinking concrete driveways:
1. Poorly Compacted Soil
When your driveway is installed, the soil underneath must be tightly compacted to provide adequate support. Without proper preparation, the soil can settle over time, leading to uneven slabs and cracks.
2. Erosion from Water
Water is a major culprit behind sinking concrete. Rain, snowmelt, or improper drainage systems can wash away soil beneath your driveway, creating voids and leaving sections unsupported. This erosion weakens the stability of your driveway, causing concrete to sink and crack.
3. Freeze-Thaw Cycles
During freezing temperatures, water in the soil expands as it turns to ice, putting additional pressure on the concrete and soil. When temperatures rise, the ice melts, leaving voids beneath your driveway. This freeze-thaw cycle contributes to instability and damage over time.
4. Tree Roots and Soil Shifting
The growth of tree roots can lift sections of your driveway or disrupt the soil beneath it, while shifting soil due to natural settling can create uneven surfaces and cracking.
5. The Weight of Concrete
Concrete is heavy, and over time, the weight alone can compact weaker soils underneath, contributing to sinking and cracking.
Why Repairing, Not Replacing, Is the Smarter Choice
Many homeowners assume replacing a damaged driveway is their only option. But full replacement is often costly, disruptive, and doesn’t necessarily address the underlying soil issues. That means the same problems could resurface in your new driveway.
Instead of tearing out and replacing the concrete, concrete leveling with PolyLevel® polyurethane foam offers a better solution. Here’s why:
- Cost-Effective: Concrete leveling is often less expensive than full replacement, reducing material and labor costs.
- Minimally Invasive: The process avoids demolition, preserving your landscaping and saving you time and trouble.
- Fast Results: Your driveway can often be repaired and ready to use within a single day — no lengthy curing times required.
- Long-Lasting Solution: PolyLevel solves the root causes of sinking concrete, preventing further damage in the future.
The PolyLevel® Solution
PolyLevel is an advanced polyurethane foam designed specifically for concrete lifting and leveling. Here’s how it works:
- Injection: We inject the foam beneath the concrete through small, strategically placed holes.
- Expansion: The foam expands to fill gaps in the soil, lifting the concrete back into place.
- Stabilization: PolyLevel reinforces the area, preventing future settling and erosion.
Why Choose PolyLevel?
PolyLevel offers significant benefits over traditional methods like mudjacking or full replacement, including:
- Lightweight yet Strong: PolyLevel adds stability without adding unnecessary weight that could worsen soil settlement.
- Water Resistance: Unlike traditional methods, PolyLevel is water-resistant, so it won’t wash out or degrade over time.
- Durability: This foam withstands soil movement and freeze-thaw cycles, making it a reliable, long-term solution.
- Quick Repairs: PolyLevel cures quickly, allowing you to use your driveway just hours after installation.
Restore Your Driveway with NV Waterproofing and Foundation Repair
Repairing a sinking concrete driveway doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With NV Waterproofing and Foundation Repair’s expert team and advanced PolyLevel technology, we can restore your driveway to its original condition, improving curb appeal and ensuring long-lasting results.
Don’t wait until the problem worsens. Contact us today to schedule your free inspection and see how our concrete leveling services can protect your home and your investment.
Transform Your Driveway Today!
Call us 1-703-690-3889 or click here to book your free estimate and fix sinking concrete once and for all.
