How To Fix Concrete Driveway

Check out this handy guide about How To Fix Concrete Driveway! Whether you’re dealing with cracks, potholes, or uneven surfaces, these step-by-step instructions will help you get your driveway back in top shape.

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Are you a homeowner with a cracking or crumbling concrete driveway? In this blog post, you’ll learn how to fix a concrete driveway step-by-step, saving you from long-term damage. 

While concrete driveways are one of the best and most long-lasting driveway materials, they can still be susceptible to weathering and cracking due to the elements. While frustrating, it’s something many homeowners have to deal with at one time or another. 

Thankfully, due to the commonality of this problem, companies have created many products that make DIY repairs to your concrete driveway easier than ever. 

But first, why do concrete driveways get cracks or start to crumble, to begin with? And can you do anything as a homeowner to prevent it from happening?

What Causes Damage To Concrete Driveways?

As mentioned above, even though using concrete for driveways is one of the best materials, it’s still prone to weathering. Things like moisture from rain and snow can cause the concrete to crack or crumble over time. Heat is also a primary culprit in causing cracks in your driveway. 

During summer, the hot temperatures can make the concrete expand, leading to small cracks that can eventually weaken it and cause it to crumble. 

Here are some of the other most common issues that can result in problems with your concrete driveway. 

• Old Concrete
• Uneven Concrete
• Unrepaired Small Holes
• Unrepaired Concrete Cracks
• Uneven Weight Load From Heavy Vehicles
• Heavy Loads
• Freeze-Thaw Cycles
• Tree Roots
• Nearby Large Trees
• De-Icer
• Oil

Preventative Measures for A Concrete Driveway

The good news is that with proper maintenance of your concrete driveway, you can help prevent the need for a concrete driveway repair. Here’s how. 

First and foremost, you’ll want to ensure you keep up with regular maintenance. Cleaning the entire driveway with a pressure washer at least once a season will help remove salt and de-icer from the winter or other dirt and debris that can cause damage. 

You can also do everything you can to keep the ground underneath your driveway even. This can include removing tree roots, doing regular pest control, and ensuring proper drainage from your home. 

Finally, you’ll want to check for any signs of wear or damage, such as fine surface cracks, large cracks, crumbling around the edges or on the surface, and broken pieces. If you spot any of these issues, do your best to address them immediately before they worsen or create more significant problems. 

How To Fix An Uneven Or Cracked Concrete Driveway

Whether you have an uneven driveway, a cracked driveway, or both, these repair steps are the best option to extend the life of your existing driveway and reduce the chances of significant damage. 

Step #1 – Clear The Debris From The Surface

First, you’ll want to remove debris from the area with a stiff broom, leaf blower, garden hose, or pressure washer. Doing this will give you a better look at the damage and ensure the repair material will adhere properly. 

Step #2 – Fill In Any Small Cracks or Holes With A Concrete Patching Compound

Once the area is clean and dry, you can fill in any smaller cracks or holes you see in the concrete with a patching compound. 

To get the best results, it’s recommended to use a putty knife. 

Apply the patching compound to the surface level of the concrete, and then use your putty knife to smooth everything out. Be careful to remove as many air bubbles as possible. 

Step #3 – Fill in Larger Cracks With A Concrete Crack Filler

You’ll want to use a concrete crack filler or repair kit for larger cracks. You can find these online or at your local hardware store, such as Home Depot. 

These kits come with a two-part system, with one part being the actual filler and the other being the sealer. 

To apply, use a putty knife to fill the crack with the filler. Once that’s done, you can use a brush or sponge to apply the sealer over any filled cracks or holes. 

Be sure to follow any of the instructions included with your kit, as some have slightly different application methods. 

Step #4 – Repair Uneven Sections

You can use a concrete leveling compound if your driveway has uneven sections. These come in a ready-to-use formula and are designed to fill any low spots on the concrete that may have been caused by settling or shifting. 

Apply the leveling compound to the affected area and smooth it with a trowel. Let it dry as directed before applying any sealer. 

Step #5 – Seal The Whole Driveway

If you would like to add a sealant to the surface of the concrete, make sure it’s one specifically formulated for concrete. This helps protect it further against the elements and moisture.

To apply sealer, use a brush or roller to coat the driveway with two thin coats. Make sure to let each coat dry completely before applying the second one. 

Once your sealant is dry, you’ll have a beautiful, fixed concrete driveway that should last for years! 

How To Fix A Crumbling Concrete Driveway

Another common problem with concrete driveways is that they are susceptible to crumbling. While this is a common problem, the repair can be more complicated than just filling in cracks. 

If you aren’t comfortable doing these repairs yourself, consider hiring a professional to do it for you. 

But if you are confident in your DIY skills, here are the steps to take. 

Step #1 – Clear Debris From The Driveway

The first step is to use a broom, leaf blower, or pressure washer to clear away any debris from the driveway’s surface. If there are any cracks or holes in the driveway, you can repair these at the same time by following the steps outlined above. 

Step #2 – Remove Any Loose Pieces Of Concrete

Before you can make the necessary repairs, you will need to chip away any loose pieces of concrete. You can do this with a hammer or chisel. 

Since there will be lots of little concrete pieces and dust, it is recommended that you wear safety glasses while doing this! 

Step #3 – Add A Concrete Leveling Compound 

Wherever you have removed the concrete, you can use a leveling compound to fill in the gaps. Mix up the compound using the instructions on the package and then apply it with a trowel. 

Be sure to let the compound dry completely before moving on to the next step; otherwise, it won’t adhere properly. 

If the space where the concrete crumbled away is large and can’t be fixed with a leveling compound, consider using a patching material instead. 

Step #4 – Seal The Driveway

Finally, you’ll want to seal the driveway after making repairs, as this will help protect it from the elements and moisture. 

Use a sealant explicitly formulated for concrete driveways, then apply two thin coats with a brush or roller, allowing each coat to dry completely in between applications. 

Best Driveway Repair Products

If you’re looking for the best driveway repair products, here are some of the most popular choices among consumers. 

1. Red Devil Pre-Mixed Concrete Patch
2. ConSandTrate Concrete Crack Filler
3. Sikaflex Self-Leveling Sealant
4. DAP Ready-Mixed Concrete Patch
5. DAP Liquid Cement Crack Filler

When To Hire A Professional For Concrete Repair

While you should be able to repair most minor cracks and crumbling problems yourself, hiring a professional may be a good idea if the damage is extensive. This can include large driveway cracks, sunken concrete slabs, or crumbling sections. 

A professional will be able to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best way to repair it. They may suggest a specialized technique to raise sunken sections of the concrete surface or a new driveway altogether. Either way, they can provide a thorough and long-lasting repair. 

And there you have it – some tips for how to fix concrete driveway, whether cracking or crumbling. With the right products and some elbow grease, you can have your driveway looking like new in no time! 

Looking for my DIY Advice? Check out 5 Ways That You Can Finance Home Improvement Projects.