Fixing Cracks in a Concrete Driveway

In many homeowners' minds, nothing looks or feels better than a freshly paved driveway, glistening in the sun without a single crack or break in its perfectly uniform surface. Unfortunately, this model of craftsmanship never lasts forever, which is why a little knowledge of driveway repair can go a very long way. From start to finish, the process is not difficult, but there are a few tips to make the process easier as well as some dangers to avoid.

Driveway Prep

The first step toward fixing that unsightly crack in your concrete is to thoroughly clean it out so that the patch can effectively make a bond. Although you might prefer a screwdriver and a broom to accomplish this task, if you're a technologically savvy homeowner, you might want to consider buying a pressure washer, hammer, and chisel to clean out the cracks and blow the debris clear. Be sure than any areas chiseled out leave an upside-down V shape to the opening, which will help to create a stronger bond, and wash the entire driveway clean to detect any new cracks that you might need to widen to accommodate the sealing compound.

Situation Analysis

When the driveway is ready to go, there are multiple patching options available to accomplish the repair, each of which are intended for a specific crack size:
Cracks under 1/4 inch will only require premixed concrete sealant to finish the job; press this into the crack and smooth over with a trowel, repeating the process after the patch dries to fill any areas where shrinkage occurs.
You can patch cracks that measure 1/4-1/2 inch with either mortar mix or concrete sealant, depending on your preference. In both cases, be sure to repeat the process as indicated for the smaller crack repairs.
Cracks that are larger than 1/2 inch will require premixed concrete; simply apply the mix as directed on the concrete package, and wait 60 minutes before leveling the surface of the patch to match the driveway.

Finishing Up

When the appropriate patches have been applied to each and every crack in the driveway, it is important to create the strongest and most durable bond between the cracked surfaces. To accomplish this, allow the patches to set, becoming firm or hard on the surface, and then gently spray them with a garden hose until the entire patch is wet. Next, place plastic sheets over each patched area, and set bricks or rocks over the plastic to ensure that it doesn't blow away. For the next few days, continue to remove the plastic, spray the patches, and cover them up again to achieve a slow-cured bond that will last longer and look better.

Optional Driveway Seal

Although driveway patches are effective and durable, they might not dry to the exact same shade as your driveway, causing them to be somewhat noticeable. To prevent this occurrence, and to protect the driveway from all kinds of weather and some kinds of wear, many homeowners choose to apply a driveway sealant over the entire driveway after they patch it. There are roll-on and spray-on sealants available at most hardware stores --- your finished driveway will sparkle and shine and be the new envy of the neighborhood.