Why Does My Driveway Sink in Front of My Garage?
- Posted In: Apron Repair
- Published On: May 17 2025
- Written By: Seal King
- 0 Comments
A sunken garage apron—a section of driveway immediately adjacent to your garage door—can be more than just an eyesore. In Minnesota’s freeze-thaw climate, this issue can lead to water pooling, accelerated pavement damage, and even trip hazards. If you’ve noticed a dip or crack right where you enter your garage, you’re not alone. Understanding the root causes and knowing when to call in professionals like Seal King can save you time, money, and stress.
Your garage apron is the transitional slab of concrete (or asphalt) that sits between your driveway and the garage threshold. It bears the brunt of vehicle weight, water runoff, and environmental stress. Over time, this critical section can settle or sink, leaving a depression that traps water and debris.
Common Causes of a Sunken Garage Apron
Several factors contribute to apron sinking—often in combination:
- Soil Settlement Underneath: Poorly compacted base soil can shift under the weight of vehicles, creating voids where concrete settles.
- Freeze-Thaw Cycles: In Minnesota, water seeps into cracks, freezes, expands, and then thaws, gradually weakening the base and slab.
- Improper Drainage: If water isn’t directed away from your garage apron, it erodes the underlying soil, leading to settlement.
- Heavy Loads: Oversized vehicles or repeated heavy loads increase stress on the apron, exacerbating any existing weakness.
Signs You Need Garage Apron Repair
Even minor dips can worsen quickly. Keep an eye out for:
- Visible Depression or Slope: A noticeable dip that collects water or makes it hard to open your garage door fully.
- Cracking and Spalling: Surface cracks or crumbling edges indicate structural distress.
- Pooling Water: Standing water in front of the garage can seep into your foundation or lead to ice buildup in winter.
- Uneven Transition: A “thump” when driving over the apron signals a misaligned slab.
Why Professional Repair Matters
DIY fixes—like pouring new concrete over a sunken slab—rarely address the underlying issue. Professional repair specialists will:
- Assess the Base Conditions: By examining soil compaction and drainage patterns, they identify the true cause of settlement.
- Lift and Level the Slab: Techniques such as polyurethane foam injection can raise the apron back to grade without full replacement.
- Ensure Proper Drainage: Installing channels or regrading nearby surfaces keeps water away from the repaired area.
- Provide a Durable Finish: High-quality patching compounds and sealants withstand Minnesota’s temperature swings and traffic loads.
At Seal King, we combine local expertise with industry-leading materials. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Minnesota-Focused Solutions: We understand how our unique climate affects concrete and asphalt longevity.
- Advanced Repair Technologies: From foam leveling to precision grading, our methods minimize disruption and cost.
- Comprehensive Service: Beyond garage aprons, we offer sealcoating, crack repair, and full driveway restoration to protect your investment.
- Customer Satisfaction Guarantee: Our friendly, professional crews communicate clearly and finish projects on time.
Don’t let a sunken garage apron disrupt your daily routine or damage your property. If your driveway is sinking in front of your garage, reach out to Seal King today for a free inspection and repair estimate. With the right diagnosis and skilled workmanship, you can restore a smooth, safe, and durable apron that stands up to Minnesota’s toughest conditions.
