A cracked concrete driveway not only ruins the look of your property but can do more harm if left unattended. Over time, weather, heavy weights from big trucks, and soil movement can lead to your driveway cracking. Without taking any action in the initial stages, these cracks can spread further, render your driveway unsafe to use and costlier to repair.

Fortunately, a simple DIY repair to fix cracks in a concrete driveway, and homeowners do not require special equipment or professional skill to do so. With this detailed guide, Hernandez Lawn Care will walk you through a step-by-step process on how to properly Chicago repair driveway cracks and prevent further damage.

Why Do Concrete Driveways Crack?

Understanding why cracks in concrete driveways occur and what can stop them from occurring in the future. The most common causes are:

1. Freeze-Thaw Cycles

In cold regions, water permeates tiny cracks in the concrete. When it gets cold, the water freezes and expands, thus the cracks widen. Recurring to occur, this process weakens the driveway over time.

2. Heavy Vehicle Traffic

Concrete is long-lasting, but it is not indestructible. If a driveway experiences ongoing heavy use or equipment moving over it, the driveway will experience stress and pressure creating cracks.

3. Soil Movement and Erosion

The ground beneath the driveway will shift due to changes in moisture levels, producing uneven concrete settling. The movement results in cracking as the foundation is broken.

4. Poor Installation and Curing

If the concrete wasn’t mixed or didn’t harden upon while being installed, it will crack more easily. A driveway that was poorly made will deteriorate earlier than a sturdy driveway.

Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing Cracks in a Concrete Driveway

Sealing driveway cracks is important to its durability and appearance. Carefully go through the steps below for maximum effect.

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools and Materials

Begin by preparing all the tools and materials that you will be using. Getting them ready before starting work will make it simpler and quicker to do.

Tools and Materials Needed:

• Concrete crack filler (for minor cracks)
• Patching compound (for major cracks)
• Concrete bonding adhesive
• Hammer and chisel
• Wire brush
• Garden hose or pressure washer
• Caulking gun
• Trowel or putty knife
• Sand (for deep cracks)
• Concrete sealer (optional for protection)

Step 2: Thoroughly Clean the Cracks

Cleaning the cracks efficiently is the secret to a permanent repair. Filth, debris, or loose concrete in the cracks will prevent the filler from adhering well. 

• Clean Loose Concrete and Debris: Remove loose or flaking concrete out from inside the crack using a hammer and chisel. This gives a solid surface on which to apply the patch material.

• Brush Away Dust: Vacuum the crack with a wire brush and flush out any dirt or dust.
• Clean the Area: Clean a hose or pressure washer to eliminate any remaining particles. Allow the crack to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Use a Bonding Adhesive

For stronger bonding, a concrete bonding adhesive must be used before filling the crack. This will make the filler stick well and not peel off after some time.

• Use a Small Brush or Roller: Put the adhesive in the crack and along its edges.
• Let It Become Tacky: Check the container for the drying time. Most adhesives will become tacky within a few minutes before you apply the patch.

Step 4: Fill the Crack Depending on Its Width

The amount of filler you put in depends on how deep and how wide the crack is.

For Small Cracks (less than ¼ Inch):

• Apply a Liquid Crack Filler: Good-quality concrete crack filler can be easily applied rapidly from a caulking gun for accuracy.
• Smooth the Surface: Use a putty knife to level the filler so that it will even out and merge with the surrounding concrete.
• Let It Dry Thoroughly: Let the product within recommended drying time, normally several hours. Do not drive or step on it until fully cured.

For Wider Cracks (More Than ¼ Inch Wide):

• Fill Partially Deep Cracks with Sand: If extremely deep, filling with sand first will be saving filler and the base will be better.
• Apply a Patching Compound: Utilize a premixed store-bought concrete patching compound or mix your own according to the package directions.
• Press the Patch into the Crack: Pack the crack with the material, and press it firmly in with a trowel. Leave it slightly overfilled to allow room for shrinkage.
• Smooth the Surface: Use a trowel to even out the patch with the concrete surrounding it.
• Let It Dry: Larger repairs may take up to 48 hours to completely dry. Do not drive on the driveway until it is dry.

Step 5: Seal the Driveway for Long-Lasting Protection

Sealing your driveway after crack filling is a great step toward avoiding future damage. A sealer on the concrete forms a protective coating that resists water intrusion, staining, and weathering.

• Select a Top-Quality Concrete Sealer: Select a sealer specifically for exterior concrete surfaces.
• Apply Sealer Uniformly: Roll or spray a thin, uniform coat over the driveway.
• Allow It to Dry Prior to Driving: The majority of sealers take 24-48 hours to completely cure. Avoid walking or driving on the surface within that time frame.

Conclusion

Fixing cracks in your concrete driveway is a simple task if done correctly. With proper cleaning, the right materials, and a proper sealant schedule, you can give your driveway back its strength and extend its life.

If you require professional assistance, Hernandez Lawn Care is here to help! Our experts are skilled in concrete driveway repair and maintenance, delivering quality work. 

Call us today to book an appointment!