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As with any new construction, it is not uncommon for new driveways to settle into their existence. This can cause your driveway to sink a bit, maybe up to an inch. However, sometimes your driveway can begin to sink years after it was laid. If this happens, or if the sinking of your new driveway is around the 4-5” mark, it is time to schedule a repair and consider using foam leveling to do so.

It can be frustrating to see your concrete driveway start to sink. Even with the best care, your driveway can begin its downward descent. These are some of the reasons even the best cared-for driveways can start to sink.

Poor Construction

Although we all hope that our homes were built to the highest standards, realistically, we know that is not always the case. In some instances, shortcuts were taken or poor materials were used that will wear out faster than other, stronger materials. Additionally, construction techniques have greatly improved over the past 20 years. Homes with older construction dates will find their materials do not hold up to the same scrutiny newer materials do.

A driveway can sink due to the use of poor foundations. Regardless of the topcoat material used, all driveways should have a concrete or tarmac foundation. This will keep the driveway from compressing under the multitude of heavy vehicles that use it daily. Your driveway should also have some form of edging. Lining the edges with bricks, or a low retaining wall, will keep the material from shifting too much when it starts to settle.

Water

Nothing is as detrimental to a construction project than water. After all, it was only water that wore away rock and created the Grand Canyon! If water were to get under the concrete, it can easily wear away the soil underneath the driveway. Even the strongest foundation will give when the soil is eroded beneath it. As the foundation sinks, the driveway above it will sink as well.

Although newer construction materials are often made to be water-resistant, water can always find a way to seep in. Sometimes a broken underground pipe can leak significant amounts of water into the surrounding soil. Additionally, existing cracks in a driveway can provide an entryway for water to seep in.

New Construction

Many times, you do not think you have to worry about a newly-constructed driveway sinking. However, new construction is oftentimes more prone to sinking than older construction. This is because the soil hasn’t had time to adjust to all the new materials above it. Not only are there heavy construction vehicles constantly shifting the soil around, digging and installing pipes and wires underground can change the existing soil structure. Sometimes, this soil shift can cause a significant drop in the level of the driveway, so lifting the concrete becomes necessary.

Simple Repair

Noticing a sinking driveway can be disheartening, especially with new construction. Luckily, our foam-leveling procedure is quick and relatively painless to do. Don’t hesitate to contact us today for your free consultation on the state of your driveway. You can either fill out our easy online form or call us at (303) 883-3322. We look forward to hearing from you!

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