What Are the Causes of Driveway Unleveling?

Considerations

• Most asphalt and concrete driveways require regular maintenance to fix minor cracks, but large cracks, buckling, potholes, sizable dips and other forms of unleveling might be signs of a serious problem. Diagnosing the problem typically requires a professional’s experience, but you might be able to identify the problem yourself.

Poor Installation

• If the original installers didn’t create a proper slope, or if they didn’t prepare the ground underneath the driveway properly, water draining from surrounding areas could pool underneath, eventually weakening and shifting the top layer of concrete or asphalt. The installers could have prevented such problems by creating a water barrier using polyethylene sheeting or by recommending you hire a landscaper to improve the water drainage on your property.

Roots

• Tree roots extending under your driveway might push up, causing the driveway to buckle and eventually crack. The only way to fix the problem is to remove the root, which requires ripping up that section of your driveway. To avoid the problem in the future, remove any trees lining the driveway that have a tendency to grow quickly.

Hazards

• Uneven driveways present safety hazards. If water pools in low spots during the summer, slippery moss might grow. Pooled water in the winter can lead to ice formation, an equally dangerous walking hazard. Potholes, cracks and humps might trip people, especially at night when they are difficult to notice. Driveway problems also might damage your vehicles. If water pools next to your home’s walls, the water could leak into your basement and cause wood rot or other damage. Continual puddles also might degrade the surface of your driveway, especially if there is frequent freezing and thawing.