Understanding the Problem: Driveway Sinking at Garage

If you’ve noticed your driveway sinking at the garage, you’re not alone. This is a common issue for many homeowners and can lead to serious problems if not handled quickly and properly. The area where the asphalt driveway meets the garage is particularly prone to sinking due to a variety of factors. Understanding why it’s happening and what can be done about it is key to preventing further damage and maintaining your property’s value.

The driveway sinking at the garage edge happens more often than you might expect. And while the problem may seem minor at first, it can quickly develop into a more serious issue impacting your home’s foundation or garage structure. Below are the most common causes of this problem:

Improper Base Installation

One of the leading causes of a driveway sinking near the garage is an improperly prepared base layer. For asphalt driveways to remain stable, a solid and compacted base must be laid before paving. When construction skips over necessary steps or uses substandard materials, the base can shift or settle over time. This is especially common in older driveways or driveways built by inexperienced contractors. Hiring experienced asphalt contractors is essential to ensuring proper installation from the start.

Water Infiltration

Water is a major enemy of asphalt. If water seeps between the garage and the driveway, it can erode the sub-base, wash away sediment, and cause the surface to sink. Poor drainage or heavy rainfall makes this issue worse. In colder climates like Wisconsin, freeze-thaw cycles can accelerate the damage, expanding cracks and weakening the area where the driveway and garage meet. Asphalt contractors often recommend proper grading and drainage systems to prevent these issues.

Soil Compaction and Settling

Over time, the soil beneath the driveway and garage naturally compacts and settles, especially if the ground wasn’t fully stabilized before installing the driveway. This settling creates a gap between the garage slab and the asphalt driveway, causing the sinking effect you may be seeing today. Asphalt contractors understand how soil conditions impact durability and can take preventive measures during construction or repairs.

Heavy Loads and Frequent Use

Driveways that regularly bear heavy loads such as RVs, trucks, or construction equipment are more prone to sinking. The consistent pressure can compress the base layer more than intended, especially near the garage where vehicles often stop, idle, or park. Reputable asphalt contractors will design the base layer and surface thickness to handle expected weight loads to reduce the risk of this issue.

Not all homeowners immediately recognize the issue of driveway sinking at the garage. Here are tell-tale signs that indicate the problem is starting or already advanced:

– Visible dip or depression near the garage door threshold

– Pooling water at the base of the garage during rain

– Uneven transition between garage floor and driveway

– Cracks forming near the joint between asphalt and the garage

– Difficulty opening or closing the garage door due to uneven support

A sinking driveway at the garage isn’t just about aesthetics or minor inconvenience. If ignored, it can lead to more serious issues such as:

– Foundation damage to the garage due to shifting support

– Water intrusion under the garage slab

– Increased wear and tear on vehicles from uneven surfaces

– Costly future repairs that could have been avoided with early action

Asphalt contractors stress the importance of early intervention. Even minor signs of driveway sinking should prompt an inspection before the problem worsens beyond simple repair.

At Asphalt Contractors Inc., we understand the frustration and potential hazards of a driveway sinking at the garage edge. Since 1979, we’ve helped homeowners and business owners across Southeast Wisconsin maintain their asphalt driveways with expert solutions tailored to each unique problem. Here’s how we approach the issue professionally:

Thorough Inspection and Diagnosis

Before taking any action, we examine the driveway and the soil conditions beneath it. This includes checking drainage patterns, evaluating the base material, and assessing the degree of sinking. An accurate diagnosis is the foundation for lasting repairs, and it’s one of the core values we bring to every project we undertake. As seasoned asphalt contractors, we make sure to get to the root of the issue before offering solutions.

Customized Repair Methods

Depending on the severity of the sinking and its cause, we may recommend one or more of the following solutions:

– Remove and replace the sunken section with proper base reinforcement – Install a drainage system to redirect water away from the joint – Use asphalt patching for minor sinks or cracks – Consider concrete transitions if higher load-bearing strength is required

Because we manufacture our own asphalt, Asphalt Contractors Inc. guarantees consistent material quality. Our in-house production also means cost-effective solutions for our clients without compromising durability. Having control over materials is one of the key advantages of working with experienced asphalt contractors like us.

Preventive Maintenance

Once we’ve fixed the current problem, our team can help prevent the issue from recurring. This may involve sealcoating to protect your asphalt from water damage, filling cracks before they worsen, and scheduling regular inspections. Our goal is to provide long-term value through proactive care rather than continuous repair. Our experienced asphalt contractors will give you guidance on maintaining your surface correctly for lasting performance.

If you’re experiencing a driveway sinking at the garage area, acting sooner rather than later is your best bet. Waiting can turn a relatively simple repair into a major one, costing you both time and money. With over four decades of paving experience, Asphalt Contractors Inc. is your trusted partner in diagnosing the problem and delivering high-quality, long-lasting solutions.

Why Choose Asphalt Contractors Inc.?

Based in Union Grove, Wisconsin, Asphalt Contractors Inc. brings over 40 years of experience in asphalt paving, maintenance, and repair. Serving Racine, Kenosha, Waukesha, Walworth, and Milwaukee counties, we are proud to be a full-service contractor with an in-house asphalt production facility. This means better control over materials, faster project timelines, and superior workmanship on every job. We don’t just fix your sinking driveway—we provide ongoing support to help you protect your investment year after year. Our certified crews use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure quality in every detail. When it comes to something as important as your property’s surface integrity, trust the expertise and reputation of Asphalt Contractors Inc. As one of the most reliable asphalt contractors in Wisconsin, we stand behind every job we do.

Concerned about driveway sinking near your garage? Don’t guess at the problem—get an expert opinion. Contact Asphalt Contractors Inc. today for a free inspection and no-obligation estimate. We’ll assess the cause, explain your options, and help you take the next steps toward restoring the safety and value of your driveway. As a trusted name in Southeast Wisconsin since 1979, Asphalt Contractors Inc. is committed to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Let us help you solve the problem of a sinking driveway and prevent future damage to your home. Reach out today and see the difference experience makes.

When you work with professional asphalt contractors, you’re not just getting a repair—you’re getting peace of mind. Licensed contractors ensure the job is done right the first time with proper materials and techniques that last. Whether you’re building a new driveway or repairing an existing one, hiring asphalt contractors is a smart investment in the future of your property.

Experienced teams, like those at Asphalt Contractors Inc., also offer longer warranties, higher-quality materials, and service backed by decades of hands-on knowledge. Our approach goes beyond a one-time fix—we focus on delivering long-term performance and satisfaction for homeowners and business owners alike. Choose asphalt contractors who value your time, your home, and your investment.

No matter where you are in the process—whether you’ve just noticed cracking or are seeing advanced sinking—now is the time to act. Reach out to Asphalt Contractors Inc., the asphalt contractors Wisconsin residents have trusted for over 40 years.