Why Is My Concrete Driveway Sinking?

Why Is My Concrete Driveway Sinking?

Why Is My Concrete Driveway Sinking?

There are a few reasons why a concrete driveway may sink. One possibility is that the soil underneath the driveway is not stable, which can cause the concrete to crack and sink over time. If this is the case, the driveway may need to be repaired or replaced. Another possibility is that the weight of the concrete is too much for the soil to support, and it will slowly sink over time. In this case, adding more soil or using a stronger foundation may help to fix the problem.

Another possibility is that the soil underneath the driveway is eroding, which can cause the concrete to sag.

Again, another possibility is that the concrete itself is not strong enough to support the weight of vehicles and other objects, and it is slowly sinking under its own weight. If your driveway is new, it may not have had enough time to cure properly, which can also lead to sinking

In either case, the only way to fix the problem and prevent it from getting worse is by jacking up the concrete and reinforcing the ground underneath it.

Erosion from rainwater is a common problem in areas with high rainfall. When rainwater seeps into the ground, it can slowly erode the soil beneath the concrete, causing it to sink. A large root beneath the concrete can also cause sinking, as the root rots over time and loses its support.

In either case, jacking up the concrete or reinforcing the ground underneath it is the only way to fix the problem and prevent it from getting worse.

If you have access to heavy equipment, a backhoe can be used to elevate the slab’s edge so that you can shovel gravel or crushed limestone beneath it to fill the vacuum. If not, you’ll need to dig around the sides of the slab to obtain access underneath the walkway, then use a hydraulic jack to raise the slab up.

Hiring a business to “mudjack” the walk into place is another more expensive method. This entails drilling 112″ diameter holes in the concrete and pumping in cement to level the slab. After that, the holes are filled with concrete.

Can You Sandblast A Concrete Driveway?

Yes, you can sandblast a concrete driveway. Sandblasting, also known as abrasive blasting, is the process of cleaning or roughening a hard surface with highly compressed air and an abrasive substance such as sand, glass, or plastic.

It’s a quick and easy process to remove paint, glue, or dirt from concrete, which is sometimes done to prepare it for fresh paint or other coatings, including new layers of concrete.

It can be used to clean concrete lightly or to cut deeper into it for non-slip treatments or exposed aggregate finishes. It may create distinctive textures or patterns, as well as an excellent coating bond.

Sandblasting is a technique that is frequently used on parking garages, patios, walkways, driveways, highways, and bridges. A sandblaster is a strong equipment that requires focus as well as appropriate clothes to use. Sandblasting paint from concrete should be done carefully for the best results.

Put on safety glasses, gloves, and a breathing mask. Ear protection is also advised.

Can You Skim Coat A Concrete Driveway?

Yes, you can skim coat a concrete driveway. Although concrete driveways are durable and long-lasting, they can acquire small cracks and chips as a result of weather, an insecure base, and poor-quality concrete.

Skim coating your driveway will substantially enhance its appearance if it has numerous chips that detract from the overall appeal of your front yard.

Pouring a thin layer of new concrete over the old surface can smooth out any chips or pits and allow you to add color.

Skim coating concrete requires the application of two coats of finish. Thin Finish is the initial layer, and it should be 1/8 inch thick. If you’re using an acid stain, combine it with a base color.

Spray the driveway with water to ensure that the finish forms a solid connection with the concrete. Apply the Thin Finish with a squeegee and let it dry.

For every 55 pound bag of Thin Finish, the second coat is mixed with a quart less water than the first coat, and then the base color is added.

Spread the heavier mixture into a 1/8-inch thick layer with a flat metal trowel. If desired, add the acid stain after the finish has dried for a day.

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