Home Why Is My Concrete Driveway Sinking?

Why Is My Concrete Driveway Sinking?

A sinking concrete driveway isn’t just an eyesore—it’s a safety hazard and a potential sign of deeper issues below the surface. Whether caused by shifting soil, poor drainage, or erosion, sunken concrete can lead to cracks, pooling water, and even foundation problems if left unaddressed.

At SmartLevel Concrete, we specialize in concrete driveway leveling across Central Ohio. Let’s look at the most common causes of sunken driveways and what you can do to fix them.

Common Causes of a Sinking Driveway

1. Soil Erosion and Settlement

Over time, the soil beneath your driveway may erode due to rainwater runoff, poor drainage, or improper grading. As the soil shifts or washes away, voids form beneath the concrete slab—causing it to sink or crack.

Learn more about our concrete lifting and leveling services.

2. Poorly Compacted Fill Soil

If your driveway was installed over loosely compacted soil or backfill, it may settle unevenly under the weight of vehicles. This is especially common in new builds or areas with recent landscaping or foundation work.

See how we fix these problems with concrete driveway leveling.

3. Freeze-Thaw Cycles

In Ohio, winter weather can be brutal on concrete. Water that seeps into small cracks or beneath the slab can freeze, expand, and cause sections of your driveway to heave or sink over time.

4. Tree Roots

Roots from nearby trees can shift or displace soil beneath your concrete driveway, causing uneven settling. In some cases, the roots themselves lift or crack the slab.

5. Heavy Loads and Vehicle Traffic

Repeated stress from heavy vehicles, RVs, or delivery trucks can accelerate wear and tear—especially if the underlying soil is already compromised.

Signs Your Driveway Is Sinking

Noticeable dips or low spots
Cracks forming across the slab
Pooling water after rain
Tripping hazards near the garage or walkway
Separation between slabs or curb

If you’ve spotted any of these signs, don’t wait for the damage to worsen. A sinking driveway can quickly become more costly to fix if left alone.

Here’s how we handle cracked or sunken concrete with PolyLevel®.

H2: How to Fix a Sunken Concrete Driveway

The best solution for a sinking driveway is often concrete lifting with PolyLevel® polyurethane foam – a high-density material injected beneath the slab that raises and stabilizes it in just a few hours.

Unlike traditional mudjacking, PolyLevel is lightweight, water-resistant, and far more durable.

Compare PolyLevel vs. mudjacking.

H2: Benefits of Concrete Leveling with SmartLevel

Restores your driveway without full replacement
Quick installation (often done in one day)
No mess, no heavy equipment on your lawn
Long-lasting results backed by warranty

H2: Get a Free Driveway Inspection Today

If your driveway is sinking, cracking, or uneven, SmartLevel Concrete can help. We provide affordable, lasting solutions for homeowners throughout Columbus, Cleveland, and Central Ohio.

Our team will inspect your slab, identify the root cause, and recommend the best repair options.