A sinking driveway is more than just an eyesore. It can create trip hazards, damage your vehicle, invite water pooling, and lower your home’s kerb appeal. Across Plymouth, many homeowners notice dips or sunken patches forming months — or even years — after installation. But why does this happen, and what can you do about it?
Here’s a complete guide to the causes, repair options, and how to prevent sinking driveways in Plymouth’s weather conditions.
1. Common Reasons Why Driveways Sink
1.1 Poor Sub-Base Installation
The most frequent cause of a sinking driveway is an inadequate or poorly compacted sub-base.
If the base has not been laid to the correct depth or compacted with proper machinery, the surface will eventually shift or collapse under weight.
Signs:
- Dips forming in vehicle wheel tracks
- Uneven block paving or wobbly slabs
1.2 Heavy Rain and Poor Drainage
Plymouth receives significant rainfall throughout the year. Excess water can wash away the sub-base, weaken the soil below, or cause clay soils to expand and contract.
Signs:
- Water pooling in certain areas
- Sinking near drains or downpipe
1.3 Soil Movement
Soft or unstable soils, common in many coastal areas around Plymouth, can shift over time. If the driveway was installed without assessing ground conditions, sinking becomes more likely.
1.4 Vehicle Weight
Driveways are meant to withstand pressure — but only when built correctly. Parking heavy vans, caravans, or work vehicles on an under-prepared surface will speed up sinking.
1.5 Incorrect Installation of Block Paving or Resin
For block paving:
- Inadequate edge restraints
- Too much sand
- Insufficient jointing
For resin:
- Poor-quality base tarmac
- Incorrect resin depth
- Poor curing during cold, wet conditions
All of these can contribute to surface collapse.
2. How Plymouth Homeowners Can Fix a Sinking Driveway
The right solution depends on the cause and the driveway material. Below are the most effective methods.
2.1 Re-Levelling Block Paving
If you have a block-paved driveway, the sinking can often be repaired without replacing the entire surface.
Process:
- Lift affected block
- Rebuild the sub-base
- Re-lay and compact sharp sand
- Replace and re-level blocks
- Re-sand joints
This is an efficient and cost-effective repair if done early.
2.2 Sub-Base Reconstruction
If sinking is widespread or severe, the sub-base must be rebuilt.
This involves:
- Removing the existing blocks or surface
- Excavating weakened soil
- Installing a MOT Type 1 sub-base at the correct depth
- Compacting in layer
- Reinstalling the driveway surface
This method ensures long-term stability and prevents future movement.
2.3 Improving Drainage
To prevent water washout, drainage may need to be improved.
Common solutions include:
- Installing channel drains
- Adding soakaway
- Adjusting driveway fall (gradient)
- Switching to permeable block paving
Good drainage is especially important in Plymouth due to frequent rain and coastal weather.
2.4 Resin or Tarmac Overlay (If Suitable)
If the base is solid and only the top surface is worn or slightly uneven, an overlay can help.
Ideal for:
- Minor dips
- Ageing tarma
- Cosmetic improvements
A resin-bound overlay also improves slip resistance and appearance.
Note: an overlay won’t fix poor sub-base issues — those must be repaired first.
3. How to Prevent Your Driveway from Sinking Again
✔ Choose a qualified, experienced installer
The most reliable way to avoid sinking is to ensure your driveway is installed properly the first time. Skilled professionals follow correct excavation depths, compaction standards, and drainage requirements.
✔ Opt for high-quality materials
Low-grade sub-base or cheap paving materials won’t withstand long-term use.
✔ Ensure good drainage
Avoid water pooling by installing channel drains, soakaways, or permeable paving.
✔ Schedule annual maintenance
Especially for block paving:
- Top up jointing sand
- Clean surface
- Check for movement earl
✔ Avoid very heavy vehicles on weak areas
If you need to park vans or motorhomes, mention this during installation so the base can be reinforced.
4. When Should You Call a Professional?
You should contact a driveway specialist in Plymouth if you notice:
- Multiple sinking areas
- Water pooling after rain
- Loose or wobbly block paving
- Visible cracks in resin or tarmac
- A sunken driveway affecting your property entrance or garage access
Early repairs can save significant costs and prevent bigger structural issues.
5. Need Expert Driveway Repairs in Plymouth?
At Bespoke Driveways & Patios, we specialise in repairing and rebuilding sinking driveways across Plymouth and surrounding areas. Our team uses industry-leading techniques to rebuild your sub-base, improve drainage, and restore your driveway to a safe, level, long-lasting condition.
Whether your driveway needs a small re-levelling job or a full reconstruction, we can help.
Contact us today for a free site assessment.