Sinking Asphalt Driveways: Repair Steps, Causes & Prevention

A sinking asphalt driveway is more than just an eyesore—it’s a sign of underlying issues that worsen over time if left unaddressed. 

Whether it’s improper installation, soil erosion, or drainage problems, a sunken driveway leads to more severe structural issues and costly repairs. Fortunately, you can take steps to diagnose and fix a sinking asphalt driveway,‌ saving time and money in the long run.

This guide will walk readers through the causes of a sinking asphalt driveway, how to identify the problem, and various repair options. From simple DIY fixes to more complex professional solutions, you will gain the knowledge to tackle this common issue and restore your driveway’s functionality and appearance.

Causes of a Sinking Asphalt Driveway

Several factors contribute to a sinking asphalt driveway. Learning about these causes is important for determining the best action and preventing future issues. Recognizing these causes empowers you to make informed decisions and helps craft effective long-term preventative strategies.

Improper Installation

Poor installation is one of the most common causes of a sinking asphalt driveway. When installers fail to properly compact the underlying soil or use inadequate base materials, it leads to settling and sinking over time. Additionally, if the asphalt is poured too thin, it may not be able to withstand the weight of vehicles, causing it to sink in certain areas. 

This issue also arises from using low-quality materials or not following the recommended guidelines for pavement construction. The consequences of improper installation may not be immediately apparent, but they sometimes manifest over months or years, gradually eroding the driveway’s integrity.

Soil Erosion and Drainage Issues

Improper drainage leads to soil erosion beneath the driveway, causing it to sink. When you don’t direct the water away from the driveway, it seeps underneath and washes away the supporting soil. 

This is particularly problematic in areas with heavy rainfall or snowmelt. It becomes necessary to assess the surrounding landscape to be sure that water efficiently diverts from the driveway. You should make certain that you direct downspouts away from the driveway and that the surrounding landscape slopes away from the paved surface. 

Implementing drainage systems or rainwater management solutions significantly helps in curbing erosion-related sinking.

Underground Utility Problems

Sometimes, the cause of a sinking driveway is from issues with underground utilities. A broken water main or sewer line creates voids beneath the driveway, leading to settling and sinking. 

In these cases, addressing the underlying utility problem is imperative before repairing the driveway surface. Occasional checks and timely interventions prevent these underground issues from escalating into major driveway concerns.

Signs of a Sinking Asphalt Driveway

Identifying the signs of a sinking asphalt driveway early helps you address the issue before it becomes more severe. Being vigilant about subtle and overt signs provides a significant advantage in preventing larger repair projects later.

Visible Depressions or Dips

The most obvious sign of a sinking driveway is the appearance of depressions or dips in the surface. These areas may collect water after rainfall, further exacerbating the problem. Pay particular attention to areas that remain wet long after the rest of the driveway has dried, as these are signs of significant underlying issues.

Cracks and Fissures

As the driveway sinks, it causes stress on the asphalt surface, leading to cracks and fissures. These cracks may start small but quickly expand if left untreated. Addressing these imperfections early prevents water ingress and the associated damage that it might cause.

Uneven Surface

A sinking driveway may develop an uneven surface, making it difficult to park vehicles or walk on safely. This unevenness is particularly noticeable along the edges of the driveway. Watch out for areas where tires frequently spin or skid, as these are signs of differential settling in your driveway.

Diagnosing the Cause

Before attempting any repairs, diagnosing the root cause of the sinking driveway is key. This step will help determine the most effective repair method and prevent future issues. Determining the underlying reason for the damage informs the repair process and helps implement preventive strategies.

Inspect the Drainage

Check the area around the driveway for proper drainage. Look for signs of water pooling or erosion near the affected areas. Make certain that downspouts direct water away from the driveway and the surrounding landscape slopes away from the paved surface. Regularly clean and maintain gutters and downspouts to prevent water buildup and soil erosion.

Check for Underground Utility Issues

Contact local utility companies to check for leaks or issues with underground pipes or lines near the driveway. This step is necessary for safety and helps identify hidden problems contributing to the sinking. Be proactive in asking for regular assessments, especially in older neighborhoods where utility infrastructure might be aging.

Speak to a Professional

We suggest talking to a geotechnical engineer or a professional driveway contractor for difficult cases or when the cause isn’t clear right away. These experts perform soil tests and provide a more detailed assessment of the underlying issues. Their expertise is particularly valuable when the driveway shows multiple symptoms of sinking or other interconnected issues.

Repairing a Sunken Asphalt Driveway

Once you identify the cause, you can choose from several repair options depending on the severity of the problem and your budget. Choosing the right repair method restores the driveway’s appearance and guarantees long-term durability.

Patching Small Areas

For minor sinking or depressions, patching your asphalt driveway is an effective and affordable solution. This method involves filling the recessed area with an asphalt patch material and compacting it to match the surrounding surface. 

While this DIY project is for small areas, larger patches may require professional help. It’s important to carefully follow instructions for patching materials to establish a seamless fix that blends with the rest of the asphalt.

Mudjacking or Slabjacking

Mudjacking, or slabjacking, is used to lift sunken concrete slabs. While typically used for concrete driveways, it is also effective for asphalt in some cases. 

This process involves drilling small holes in the sunken area and pumping a mixture of cement, water, and other materials underneath to raise the surface. This method is especially useful for larger areas where general patching would be insufficient.

Full Driveway Reconstruction

A full driveway reconstruction may be necessary in severe cases or when the underlying issues are large. This involves removing the existing asphalt, addressing soil or drainage issues, and repaving the driveway. 

While this is the most expensive option, it provides a long-lasting solution and addresses underlying problems. Investing in thorough reconstruction considerably extends the lifespan of your driveway and minimizes maintenance needs over time.

Preventative Measures

After repairing a sinking asphalt driveway, taking steps to prevent future issues is important. Incorporating proactive preventative measures helps protect your investment and save money on future repairs.

Regular Maintenance

Performing regular maintenance on the driveway helps identify and address potential problems early. This includes filling in cracks, sealing the surface every few years, and cleaning the driveway. Regular inspections also spot potential warning signs before they turn into costly repairs.

Improve Drainage

Establish proper drainage around the driveway by maintaining gutters and downspouts, and grading the surrounding landscape to direct water away from the paved surface. Landscape solutions like French drains or permeable pavements further aid in effective water management.

Avoid Heavy Loads

Limit the weight of vehicles on the driveway, especially during the first few months after installation or repair. Heavy loads cause premature settling and damage to the asphalt surface. Consider distributing weights evenly or applying load restrictions to protect the new surface.

When to Call a Professional

While some minor driveway repairs are DIY projects, certain situations require professional help. You should consider hiring a professional when:

• The problem is recurrent despite previous DIY attempts
• The sinking is severe or widespread
• There are signs of significant soil erosion or drainage issues
• The cause of the sinking is unclear or‌ related to underground utilities
• The repair requires specialized equipment or materials

Professional contractors have the expertise and tools to address complex driveway issues effectively and safely. Their involvement confirms that repairs meet industry standards and you do them with appropriate quality assurance.

Final Thoughts About Fixing a Sinking Asphalt Driveway

Addressing a sinking asphalt driveway quickly saves you from more extensive and costly repairs in the future. By knowing the causes, recognizing the signs, and knowing the available repair options, you can make informed decisions about maintaining your driveways.

While some minor repairs are DIY projects, it’s important to recognize when professional help is needed. Whether you choose to fix a simple patch or a full rebuild, fixing a sinking driveway makes the property look better and keeps it safe and long-lasting.ajor reconstruction work in public rights-of-way.