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Why Is My Asphalt Driveway Sinking?

Asphalt driveway sinking is not a problem you should ignore. Also known as subsidence, the gradual sinking of a paved surface indicates deeper, underlying structural problems. Failing to address the issue could result in eventual pavement failure. So, what’s causing your Morgantown WV asphalt driveway to sink? Read on to learn more about the most common causes.

How Does Improper Driveway Construction Lead to Sinking?

Driveway paving is a complex process, but you expect contractors to do things right and produce a strong, reliable surface. Asphalt driveway costs can be substantial, so most homeowners assume that paving companies will put the money they’re putting into the project to good use. Unfortunately, not all contractors can deliver the results you deserve. Whether due to negligence, cutting corners, or a lack of experience, some contractors make mistakes that lead to future problems, including sinking.

One culprit is building your pavement on soil rich in organic material. If a contractor fails to perform soil tests, they may not realize the soil contains tree roots, stumps, buried vegetation, and other organic matter that slowly decomposes. As that material breaks down, the soil will settle and cause your Morgantown WV asphalt driveway to do the same.

Another issue no homeowner expects after paying for asphalt driveway costs is base failure. Like any structure, asphalt driveways need a strong foundation to last. If paving companies don’t properly prepare and compact the base, it can slowly weaken and fail, causing your pavement to sink.

Can Sinking Be a Byproduct of Leaking Utility Lines?

Is your asphalt paving sitting on top of utility lines, such as water mains or sewer lines? If so, that could be the problem. These utility lines carry a significant amount of water and waste. If they were to leak, subterranean erosion could occur. The soil erodes, weakening the driveway paving above. The remaining soil settles, and your asphalt driveway in Morgantown can sink.

Can an Asphalt Driveway in Morgantown Sink Due to Poor Drainage?

Poor drainage is an asphalt driveway repair issue that can wreak havoc over time. All paved surfaces need drainage to manage water runoff. Asphalt is resilient, but it doesn’t hold up to standing water. That’s why skilled paving companies grade the subgrade, base, and final asphalt layer. That subtle slope helps direct water away and into nearby drainage infrastructure.

Drainage issues can cause water to collect, saturating the surrounding soil. Eventually, it will erode, allowing water to seep beneath your asphalt paving and causing further damage. Eventually, that erosion weakens the underlying soil, leaving your driveway unsupported. That’s when the surface sinks.

Even improperly placed drainage downspouts can cause issues, so pay attention to how water flows on and around your asphalt driveway in Morgantown.

Will Neglecting Asphalt Driveway Repair Cause Sinking?

Another potential culprit of sinking asphalt paving is a lack of timely repairs. As part of your larger driveway paving maintenance routine, you should invest in regular sealcoating and annual crack repairs. If you don’t fill and seal cracks or address any unexpected damage like potholes, water can easily infiltrate the surface and erode the foundation layers.

Timely asphalt driveway repairs are critical, as damage can accelerate foundation failure. When that happens, issues can manifest as subtle depressions, but they’ll slowly graduate to full-blown subsidence concerns.

What Can I Do to Address Sinking?

If you notice your Morgantown WV asphalt driveway sinking, contact repair professionals as soon as possible. Asphalt driveway repair companies can perform a thorough assessment to determine the root cause and develop solutions to restore your pavement’s safety and reliability.

At BlackTop Paving & Asphalt Sealcoating, we bring years of experience to the table. Our goal is to offer reasonable asphalt driveway cost while providing the services property owners and managers need to keep their investments in excellent shape. Our services include new asphalt paving, resurfacing, repairs, sealcoating, parking lot striping, crack repairs, snow plowing, dirt work, and more. No matter your needs, you can expect industry-leading standards backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Give BlackTop Paving & Asphalt Sealcoating a call today to learn more and request a free quote for your asphalt driveway project. You can reach us at (304) 592-5509, email Erskineblacktopservices@gmail.com, or submit our online form.