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How do I fix my driveway?

Frequently Asked Questions and Explanations about driveways

Why does my concrete sink?

Q: My driveway is uneven and sinking in areas, it is starting to crack. Why is my driveway sinking?

A: There a few reasons why concrete will sink overtime. It could be multiple or just one of the reasons listed. 

* Poor Compaction. 

Poor Compaction at the time of construction is a common problem. The lack of oversight, knowledge, budget, or experience play major roles into this common issues. If a contractor isn’t told directly to compact the soil to a certain compaction percentage, concrete could be placed on top of un compacted native soil. Budget and time may also play a key role when selecting not to compact. 

 * Poor Soil Conditions.

Much like compaction, poor soil conditions could result in the inability to compact or allow water to penetrate under the slab, as well as absorb water creating expansion. Penetration could be caused by a sandy soil, expansion could be caused by a soil heavy with clay. The correct mix would be a blend of both with rocks added. Hydrated and compacted before placement of the concrete. This method helps with keeping concrete from sinking but it does add cost to the construction the the structure. 

* Tree Roots.

Trees next to driveways continue to grow and with the growth of the tree roots they tend to grow under the concrete and push up on the driveway. This will cause lifting or sinking issues. 

* Erosion 

Rain water, irrigation, and water leaks can erode soil that is supporting concrete. Improper placement of downspouts can also allow water to erode soil from underneath concrete driveways and allow the concrete to sink. To prevent this, homeowners need to extend drainage from the driveway as much as possible. Ensuring construction joints and cracks are sealed with a flexible joint sealant will also prevent water from washing out the soil creating voids and allowing the concrete to sink.  

Q: What is the best way to fix my sinking driveway?

A: You have a few options when considering concrete repairs. 

* Replacement

Replacing your concrete is an option. This option is the most costly with the most down time. Depending on the location city permits may need to be pulled.

* Mud Jacking 

Mud jacking is the process of drilling 1 1/2″ Holes in your concrete. Injecting a heavy cement clay mixture that pushing the concrete up. This Process is cheaper than replacement but could sink again shortly after due to the weight of the mud and the conditions of the soils.

* Polyurethane lifting

 Polyurethane lifting is where a 5/8″ or 3/8″ holes are drilled on the concrete. A two part polyurethane foam is injected under the concrete. The foam spreads for 5-9 seconds and then starts to expand. Using the weight of the concrete as leverage, the foam will compact the soil to the point where the weight of the concrete is less than the compaction rate of the soil and the concrete will start to rise.

Q: How long does the foam last under the concrete?

A: Concrete lifting using polyurethane foam has been around since 2006 so there isn’t a definite life to the foam that we are aware of yet. Polyurethane is made of recycled plastics and itself is a “plastic” so it’s safe to say that the foam will be there if the concrete above it is there.

Repaired Driveway 500 x 400
Repaired Driveway 500 x 400
Repaired Driveway 500 x 400

Q: Can oils or cleaning chemicals breakdown the polyurethane?

A: The biggest breakdown of polyurethane is by UV rays.

 

Q: If my driveway has cracks in it can it still be lifted?

A: In most cases yes. The cracks will need to be sealed to prevent water from entering under the slab and washing away soils or moistening the clay.

 

Q: How long does the process take?

A: Depending on the amount of lifting needed the average driveway can take between 4 to 8 hours.

 

Q: How big are the holes that are drilled, and will they blend in once it has been patched over?

A: We us 5/8 (Dime Size) and 3/8 (1/2 Dime Size). All based on the application that is needed to be used.

 

Q: When can I park on and use my driveway after it has been repaired?

A: You can park and use your driveway 15 minutes after we have completed the project.

 

Q: Do you offer a warranty?

A: We offer a free 2-Year Limited Warranty.