Why Is My Concrete Driveway Sinking?

 

Why Is My Concrete Driveway Sinking? 

 

An uneven concrete driveway is more than just an eyesore — it’s a sign of deeper issues below the surface. Over time, homeowners often notice their driveway slabs settling unevenly, forming cracks or even creating tripping hazards. But why does this happen? And more importantly, how can you fix it without breaking the bank? Let’s explore why residential concrete sinks, settles, and breaks — and why concrete lifting and leveling with PolyLevel® polyurethane foam from Keystone Basement Systems is the smart solution.

Concrete driveways sink for a variety of reasons, most of which can be traced back to the soil beneath them. Poorly compacted soil is one of the leading culprits. When a driveway is installed, the underlying soil must be compacted properly to provide a stable base for the concrete. If this isn’t done correctly, the soil can settle over time, causing the concrete above it to sink and crack.

 

Erosion is another common factor. Water from rain, snowmelt, or improper drainage can wash away the soil beneath your driveway. As the soil erodes, voids form, leaving sections of the driveway unsupported. Eventually, the concrete gives way, resulting in uneven slabs and cracking. Additionally, freeze-thaw cycles can exacerbate the problem, with expanding ice further shifting the soil and destabilizing the driveway.

 

Tree roots can also contribute to sinking or uneven concrete. As roots grow, they can push up parts of the driveway or disrupt the soil beneath it, causing sections to sink or crack over time. Combined with the natural weight of the concrete itself, these factors create a perfect storm for damage.

 

While many homeowners think replacing their driveway is the only option, it’s not always the best choice. Replacing concrete can be expensive, messy, and time-consuming because it typically requires extensive demolition followed by a long curing period. Worse, if the underlying soil issues aren’t addressed, the new driveway could experience the same problems.

 

That’s where Keystone Basement Systems and our concrete lifting and leveling with PolyLevel come in.

 

PolyLevel is an advanced polyurethane foam specifically designed to lift and stabilize sunken concrete. The process involves injecting the foam beneath the surface, where it expands to fill voids in the soil, lifts the concrete back into place, and reinforces the area to prevent future settling. Unlike the slurry used in mudjacking, which can degrade or wash out over time, PolyLevel is lightweight, water-resistant, and durable, making it an ideal long-term solution.

 

One of PolyLevel's biggest advantages is its installation speed and efficiency. Repairs can often be completed in just a day, and the driveway is ready for use shortly afterward. There’s no need to wait days or weeks for the concrete to cure — and because the process is minimally invasive, your landscaping stays intact.

Concrete leveling with PolyLevel from Keystone Basement Systems is also typically more cost-effective than replacement. It eliminates the need for jackhammering, debris removal, and extensive labor, reducing both time and expense.

 

And by addressing the root causes of sinking concrete, PolyLevel not only restores your driveway’s appearance but also prevents further damage, saving you money in the long run.

So, if your concrete driveway is sinking, cracking, or uneven, don’t rush to replace it. Understanding the root causes of these issues and choosing a durable, effective solution like PolyLevel from Keystone Basement Systems can save you time, money, and frustration. With concrete lifting and leveling, you can restore your driveway to its original condition and enjoy a smooth, stable surface that’s built to last.

 

With Keystone Basement Systems and PolyLevel, you can finally say goodbye to sinking concrete slabs and hello to a driveway that stands the test of time.

Call Keystone Basement Systems today to set up your free inspection!