Options for a Sinking Driveway

What can you actually do to fix a sinking driveway? In fact, there are many ways to do it. These fixes range from completely ineffective to surprisingly effective. It’s best to use only the best options, so you don’t have to try and fix your sinking driveway again in a short period of time.

These are the most commonly used driveway repair options, along with a bit of information regarding their efficacy.

DIY Caulk Repair 

Some people, not knowing that cracks typically form due to an underlying problem, treat sidewalk cracks as nothing but a cosmetic problem. These individuals then want to use a DIY fix to treat that cosmetic problem.

Of course, it’s not a cosmetic problem. This is a structural problem that can have serious repercussions down the line if you don’t actually tackle the issue. Caulking the cracks doesn’t fix the real problems hiding under the surface. It just camouflages them.

If you’re a homeowner who’s starting to see cracks in the driveway, don’t assume you can fix it by plastering over the cracks. Talk to a JES expert who can help you fix whatever problems you’re truly facing.

Concrete Replacement 

In some situations, replacing the concrete is the only option. This is especially true if your concrete already has very significant cracks in it. You may not be able to lift the concrete by any other means, making replacement your only option.

This should be a last-ditch solution. Although it’s certainly effective, it’s also expensive and difficult. You’ll likely have to stay off the area for a pretty substantial amount of time, and in some situations, there’s no telling whether the new concrete will also suffer from similar problems.

Ideally, you want to try all other solutions before you opt for this one. If you’re worried that replacement may be your only option, get in touch with a JES expert, who can perform a free inspection and let you know your options.

Pressure Grouting 

This method, also called “mudjacking” or “slabjacking,” is one of the most popular methods of concrete leveling out there. What is concrete leveling? It’s a way to raise sunken concrete back to its original level.

Because it’s so popular, many people utilize pressure grouting when the concrete slab has no cracks and can rise back up to its original level. However, pressure grouting can be invasive and difficult to go through, and it’s actually not the only method of concrete leveling out there.

You may have some home repair companies suggest pressure grouting because it’s basically the only thing they know. If you’re looking for a better option, consider talking to a JES expert first to see your alternatives. 

Polyurethane Foam Injection 

This is another method of concrete leveling. With a polyurethane foam injection like PolyRenewal, you can raise the concrete back to its original level, but without running into most of the drawbacks of pressure grouting.

In recent years, polyurethane foam injection has become a preferred method of concrete leveling for many people who deal with driveway sinking and driveway repair. It’s faster, simpler, and often more effective than pressure grouting.

This is what JES uses because it’s an effective tool for concrete leveling. If you think your driveway could utilize concrete leveling to its advantage, talk to a JES expert to learn more about what you can do with polyurethane foam injection.