Last Updated on December, 2024
Concrete cracks are never a pretty sight. They make your driveway weaker and allow water to seep through, leading to severe issues in the long run.
If you spot cracks in your driveway, you should take action today. How, you ask? This article has all the answers.
Read on to find out!
Quick Summary
- Cracks in concrete driveways can lead to significant issues, such as water damage and foundation problems, if not addressed quickly.
- The guide outlines a clear approach to inspecting, cleaning, filling, sealing, and finishing cracks, ensuring a durable fix.
- While some cracks can be repaired by homeowners, more complicated or large-scale issues may require a professional to ensure the job is done correctly.
5 Steps to Repair Concrete Driveway Cracks
Here is a simple 5-step guide to repairing cracks in your concrete driveway.
Step 1: Inspect and Prep Your Driveway Surface
First, inspect your entire driveway to identify all the concrete cracks. Those smaller than ¼-inch are generally harmless. For larger cracks, use a ruler or tape to measure them.
Next, widen the crack with a cold chisel to form a backward-angled cut. Clean loose material inside the cracks with the chisel and a hammer. Use the same tools to remove loose concrete around the affected areas.
Afterwards, clear debris from the driveway surface with a stiff wire brush.
Use a garden hose or a pressure washer to clean the surface and finish the process.
Step 2: Repair Cracks With Crack Filler
You can start filling the cracks once the concrete surface is completely dry. The specific material and approach will vary depending on the crack size.
Use a paintbrush to apply a thin coat of bonding adhesive for small cracks. Mixing three parts sand and one part cement will make a good primer. This will keep the repair material firm and prevent future cracking. Next, fill the crack with caulk or epoxy filler.
Use a trowel to fill the crack, but avoid overfilling the surrounding concrete.
If you’re using self-levelling caulk, apply non-sag caulk to the edges of the crack first. Add soapy water while the non-sag caulk is wet to smooth it out.
To fill cracks wider than ¼-inch, use a vinyl concrete patching compound. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prepare the concrete patch mixture before pouring it into the cracks. Then, smooth the compound with a trowel or putty knife to level the driveway surface.
Vinyl concrete patching is also the recommended filler for hairline cracks instead of caulk.
If you are dealing with deep cracks (½-inch or more) or wide expansion joints, fix a backer rod into the crack before pouring the concrete filler of your choice.
Step 3: Seal the Concrete Cracks
After the cracks and control joints have been filled, the next step is to seal them.
First, remove dirt or debris from the surrounding surface and wet the slab. Next, create a finer concrete mix than the one used to fill the cracks and spread a thin layer with a rubber squeegee.
Apply even pressure to avoid lap marks on your driveway.
Step 4: Add a Textured Finish
Next, add a textured finish, so the repair work doesn’t stand out on the driveway surface. You can do this with a broom with an extended handle. You can also add texture by sprinkling sand on the caulk. Do this soon after the caulk has been smoothened, so the sand can set in it.
Step 5: Leave Your Concrete Driveway to Dry
Once you’ve repaired the cracked concrete, let the compound cure.
The manufacturer will generally specify the average drying time. We recommend waiting 6 hours before walking and 48 hours before driving on the driveway.
Relevant guides:
Tools and Materials Needed for Concrete Driveway Crack Repair
Here’s what you’ll need to repair cracks in a concrete driveway:
- Crack filler or caulk
- Caulking gun
- Chisel
- Hammer
- Wire brush
- Backer rod
- Trowel
- Dry sand
- Concrete patching
- Spray bottle of soapy water
- Gloves
- Safety goggles
Tips to Keep in Mind When Repairing Cracked Concrete Driveways
Along with the main steps, here are some additional tips for repairing cracks in your driveway.
Hire a professional: You should only do this as a DIY project if you have prior experience. If not, hiring a contractor is the way to go.
Take additional measures when using concrete patching or mortar: Concrete and mortar are vulnerable to cracking. Be sure to use the proper ratio of materials when creating the mixture and shield it from the weather until it is fully cured.
Fix unevenness before starting repair: If your driveway is uneven, level it out before repair begins. Doing this afterwards might undo the caulk job and lead to further concrete cracking.
Why You Should Fix Concrete Cracks Quickly?
While a small crack here and there isn’t too concerning, large cracks in your driveway can pose several risks.
They may start as a tripping hazard but can widen and damage your vehicle’s tyres, causing them to blow out. Moreover, concrete openings allow water to seep into your property’s foundation, resulting in potholes and unevenness in your driveway.
As such, it’s essential to promptly address your existing cracks to avoid them multiplying and increasing the cost of repairs.
Conclusion
Concrete driveway cracks might go under the radar for some homeowners, but they are a serious concern that needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.
By following our guidelines, you can fix cracks and keep your driveway in good condition for many years.
Good luck!
