Mystery of the ‘Mud-Jacked’ Driveway

by Paul Bianchina
Before complete overhaul, consider options
DrivewayQ: My cement driveway is about 25 years old and certain spots became “mud-jacked” about nine years ago due to “settling”.
It is settling again in some areas and I’m wondering whether I should spot fix it again or redo the whole driveway and while at it make sure the foundation (adequate rebar, gravel etc.) is set up right.
What’s your advice?
A: Whenever I hear about the same problem occurring twice, I’m almost always in favor of doing some additional investigation, and that would be my thoughts in your case as well. It sounds like there might be some groundwater problems, poor compaction or other issues that are going on under the slab, and I’d want to get those looked at before proceeding with another repair.
Before tearing up the entire driveway, you might want to dig up the areas that are settling and then have an experienced, licensed excavator or concrete contractor come out and take a look at things. They may be able to do a little additional digging and investigative work and determine what’s causing the settling, and if it’s an isolated condition you may still be able to make repairs rather than doing a complete replacement.
If you opt for a complete replacement of the driveway, talk to the contractors about what your options are. In addition to concrete, you might want to consider paving stones or some other material that allows for greater expansion and contraction, as well as being more resistant to freeze/thaw cycles.
Remodeling and repair questions? E-mail Paul at [email protected].
See Paul Bianchina’s feature, Spring Into Home Maintenance.
American Apartment Owners Association offers discounts on products and services for landlords related to your real estate investment including REAL ESTATE FORMS, tenant debt collection, tenant background checks, insurance and financing. Find out more at http://www.joinaaoa.org./
For questions about our blog, contact our editor at [email protected].
To subscribe to our blog, click here