A smooth, level driveway is something most homeowners take for granted—until it isn’t. If you’ve noticed your driveway sinking, cracking, or pulling away from your garage or sidewalk, you’re likely dealing with concrete settlement. But why does it happen?
At Sealtite Insulation & Slabjacking, we specialize in identifying the causes of sinking concrete and fixing it the right way—with polyurethane foam lifting. Let’s explore why your driveway may be settling and what you can do about it.
Top Reasons Driveways Sink
1. Soil Erosion
Over time, water from rain, sprinklers, or poor drainage can wash away the soil beneath your driveway. This erosion creates voids under the concrete slab, leaving it unsupported—and eventually, it starts to sink.
2. Improper Soil Compaction
If the soil wasn’t properly compacted before the concrete was poured (especially common in newer subdivisions), it can gradually compress under the weight of the slab and your vehicle, causing the concrete to settle unevenly.
3. Freeze-Thaw Cycles
In regions like Central Illinois, winter weather takes a toll. Moisture in the soil freezes, expands, then thaws and contracts—repeatedly. These cycles can shift the ground beneath your driveway, leading to sinking, cracking, or heaving.
4. Heavy Loads
Repeated pressure from vehicles, especially heavy trucks or RVs, can stress the slab and the soil underneath. If the base isn’t strong enough, it can give way under the weight.
5. Natural Soil Movement
Even without water or load issues, soil can settle or shift naturally over time. This is particularly true with clay-heavy soils that shrink and swell with changing moisture levels.
Signs Your Driveway Is Sinking
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Gaps between the driveway and garage floor
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Cracks that run across the slab or along the edges
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Pooling water where the concrete has dipped
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Uneven or sloped sections that weren’t there before
Don’t wait too long—minor sinking can lead to major damage if left unaddressed.
The Solution: Polyurethane Foam Lifting
At Sealtite, we lift settled concrete driveways using high-density polyurethane foam—a modern, clean, and long-lasting fix. Here’s how it works:
- Tiny injection holes (about the size of a nickel) are drilled into the sunken slab.
- Expanding polyurethane foam is injected beneath the concrete.
- As the foam expands, it fills voids and lifts the slab back into place.
- The foam cures in minutes, and the driveway is ready for use shortly after.
Why Homeowners Love Polyurethane Lifting:
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Fast and non-invasive
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Long-lasting and waterproof
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No need for replacement or messy demolition
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Affordable compared to replacing your driveway
Get Your Driveway Back in Shape
Since 2004, Sealtite Insulation & Slabjacking has helped homeowners across Central Illinois restore safety, function, and curb appeal to their concrete surfaces. Our expert team uses top-of-the-line equipment and products to deliver lasting results—backed by a commitment to quality and honest service.
📞 Call us at 855-692-3626
🌐 www.sealtiteinsulation.com
Don’t let your driveway sink your curb appeal. Let Sealtite raise it right.