In an ideal world, a concrete driveway should endure for the duration of your home’s existence. However, certain circumstances can reduce its longevity, leading to unattractive cracks, settling, or scaling. Have you observed any deterioration on your concrete driveway? To prevent further damage, it’s crucial to address the issue immediately before it escalates. With the right tools and knowledge, you can quickly fix up your concrete driveway and make it look like new again!
Instead of tearing out the driveway and starting over, it’s usually cheaper to repair your driveway as long as the concrete is still strong. If you’re not sure about your driveway’s condition, it’s best to hire a professional to inspect the concrete. They can then suggest any necessary repairs. Before fixing a driveway, first figure out what caused the damage and then decide on the best way to repair it. Your options for fixing your driveway vary depending on the condition of the concrete and your budget.
4 main types of concrete driveway damage
Cracked concrete driveway
This is the most common type of concrete problem we see. From hairline cracks to gaping cracks, we receive a lot of calls for filling cracks in cement.
Crumbling concrete driveway
This occurs when concrete cracks and pieces start to break off, weakening the section or the entire slab.
Root damage
Tree roots are notorious for causing cracks and uneven concrete, especially on sidewalks. But if you have a tree close to your concrete driveway, it can cause problems there, too.
Uneven driveway
This can be caused by shifting or eroding soil underneath, and causes one section of the driveway to rise up above another at a seam or crack.
Step-by-step guide on how to repair your concrete driveway
As long as your driveway is structurally sound, you can repair both minor and major defects without needing to tear it out and completely replace it.
1. Inspect the driveway
The first step in repairing your concrete driveway is to inspect the damage. This assessment will help you determine the necessary type and extent of repairs. For minor damage, such as small cracks or holes, you may be able to handle the repairs yourself. However, for more significant damage, like large cracks or sunken sections, it is advisable to hire a trusted contractor to carry out the repairs.
2. Clean the area
Remove loose debris, sweep the driveway thoroughly to remove any loose dirt, leaves, or debris. Wash the surface, use a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle or a pressure washer to clean the surface of the driveway. This will help remove any remaining dirt, grime, or moss.
For stubborn stains like oil or grease, apply a degreaser or a mixture of detergent and water. Scrub the area with a stiff-bristle brush to lift the stains. Rinse the driveway thoroughly with water to remove any cleaning agents and loosened debris. Allow the driveway to dry completely before proceeding with repairs to ensure proper adhesion of the repair materials.
3. Repair sunken sections if any
If your driveway slab is sinking in certain areas, it is likely caused by a poorly compacted subgrade or soil erosion. This issue can be resolved by restoring the slabs to their original position using a process called slabjacking. This involves pumping a mixture of sand, cement, foam and other additives beneath the slab.
4. Concrete resurfacing to cover larger cracks or surface problems
Large cracks or holes larger than ¼”, spalling (horizontal peeling or chipping of the surface) can be addressed with resurfacing or a concrete overlay. This means applying a thin layer of pavement material directly over the existing concrete. We recommend using Perma-Patch Black Fill®, the ultimate all-in-one solution for asphalt alligatoring.
Specially formulated to address even the toughest pavement challenges, Perma-Patch Black Fill® combines the robust functionality of a crack filler with the sleek finish of a surface sealer. This innovative asphaltic emulsion blend includes mineral fillers, recycled shingles, plasticizers, and HDPE fibers, designed to expertly fill wider cracks, repair alligatored areas, and provide a sealed, durable wear surface – all in a single application.
This method rejuvenates your driveway, making it look brand new without the additional work and expense of removal and replacement. Serving as a middle ground between patching and replacing, refinishing with an overlay offers a more durable and visually appealing repair than simple patching.
5. Patch or fill small cracks in concrete
Cracks or holes less than ¼” wide generally don’t pose a structural threat and can be filled or patched with Perma-Patch 6690 ColdFuze Gray, the first cold-pour crack sealant engineered to meet the rigorous ASTM D6690 specifications traditionally reserved for hot-applied products. This groundbreaking sealant is designed for efficiency and superior performance.
Preparing the concrete surface is straightforward – ensure cracks and joints are clean and dry to achieve an optimal bond. 6690 ColdFuze Gray can be applied using a nozzle for precision, or poured and spread with a squeegee or disk tool, ensuring complete coverage and protection. Filling a few small cracks or holes can be a straightforward DIY project using Perma-Patch 6690 ColdFuze, which can be purchased at your local hardware store.
6. Apply a sealer (optional)
If you wish, you can apply a sealer to your concrete driveway after completing all repairs. This will help protect the driveway from weather damage and staining. Perma-Patch Black Fill stands up to de-icing salts, gasoline, oil, and other automotive chemicals. The surface is ready for foot traffic in one hour and vehicular traffic in just two hours under optimal conditions. A minimum of 6-8 hours is recommended to accommodate power steering impacts, with 24 hours being ideal. Simply use a roller or brush to apply an even layer of sealer over the entire surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is asphalt better than concrete for the driveways?
Asphalt and concrete are both popular choices for many homes, each offering unique benefits suited to different environments or situations. Asphalt is more cost-effective, durable in cold weather, and easier to repair than concrete. It also provides better traction when wet, making it an excellent choice for areas with significant annual precipitation. Conversely, concrete is known for its longevity and resistance to wear. It requires less maintenance and retains its appearance over the long term, which can enhance your home’s value if you decide to sell. It’s important to research and determine which material – asphalt or concrete – best meets your family’s needs, as there is no one-size-fits-all solution for installing a new driveway.
Do oil stains need be cleaned before repairing or resurfacing my driveway?
You need to clean oil stains before you can do any repair, staining, or resurfacing.
Should I regularly seal my driveway?
Yes, regularly sealing your driveway is beneficial. Sealing helps protect the surface from weather damage, stains, and wear and tear. It can extend the lifespan of your driveway, maintain its appearance, and prevent cracks and other damage. Typically, it is recommended to seal a concrete driveway every 3-5 years, but this can vary based on the specific conditions and usage of your driveway.