If you have a home, you likely have a driveway, and unless the weather is always perfect in your neck of the woods, chances are that driveway has some cracks in it. Concrete driveways can expand, contract, have large roots under them and plenty of other factors to cause them to crack. Luckily, there are some straightforward ways you can fix these cracks without calling a professional or having the entire driveway redone. Here is how to repair cracks in a concrete driveway.
Repairing Cracks in a Concrete Driveway
Consider Resurfacing
Not too long ago you only had the option of replacing your concrete driveway if it was riddled with cracks. Now though you can use resurface your driveway with different layers with cement mixtures. You just mix the cement with water and spread on a top coat over the driveway. Much cheaper than a driveway replacement but will likely not last as long.
How to Patch and Repair Concrete Cracks
If you only have a few cracks, you can quickly take care of them yourself with these simple steps.
- Pick clear, sunny days to work on your repair.
- Clean the crack of any debris such as loose concrete or pebbles with a wire brush. The cleaner your crack is, the more likely the patch will stick.
- Fill in the crack with the proper agent. You can use simple caulking for tiny cracks, but you need to use concrete sealer or a concrete mix for larger cracks. Make sure your filler is meant for the type of driveway you have, or you could be looking at a much bigger repair.
- Allow the patch or repair to dry and cure. The patch kit or mixture should have instructions on how long the product takes to cure. Do not let the spot get wet or put pressure on it this time. Keep any vehicles off of it at this time.
- Once the sealer or mix has cured, you can apply a water-sealer meant for concrete on top. This will make the patch last much longer.
With a little effort and the proper materials, just about anybody can repair cracks in their concrete driveway. So, the next time a crack pops up don’t fret, you can fix it!
FAQs About Repairing Cracks in a Concrete Driveway
What causes concrete driveways to crack?
Concrete cracks most often form from temperature changes, moisture expansion, or soil movement beneath the surface. In Denver, freeze-thaw cycles and shifting clay soils are the leading culprits.Should I repair small cracks myself or call a professional?
Small surface cracks can typically be sealed using DIY patching products available at most hardware stores. If cracks are wide, uneven, or spreading, it’s best to contact a professional like AAA Concrete Raising for evaluation.How long does a concrete crack repair last?
When applied correctly and protected with a sealer, most concrete crack repairs can last five years or more. Regular maintenance and sealing can extend that lifespan even further.What’s the difference between resurfacing and replacing a driveway?
Resurfacing adds a new cement layer over existing concrete to improve appearance and cover light cracks. Replacement involves removing the entire slab and pouring new concrete when structural damage is severe.How can I prevent new cracks from forming?
Keep your driveway sealed every few years and ensure proper drainage to prevent water from seeping below the surface. Avoid using harsh deicing salts and keep heavy loads away from slab edges to reduce stress on the concrete.