Crack Repair: Concrete Driveway Repair
You can diagnose the issues with your driveway and determine whether or not you will be able to fix it yourself by looking at the size of the cracks and where they are located.
To make repairs to a driveway that has cracks, which option should I choose: do-it-yourself projects or hiring a professional?
Even though concrete is without a doubt one of the most long-lasting building materials available, it is still possible for it to develop cracks and other types of problems over time. Repairing cracks in a driveway can generally be accomplished by a homeowner on their own with only a moderate amount of effort. In order to figure out how to move forward, the first step is to determine the kind of crack you’re dealing with and the source of the damage that caused it.
Does a cracked driveway indicate that there are problems with the foundation?
Cracks in the driveway could be an indication that there are issues with the foundation. In point of fact, it tops the list of priorities. The concrete that makes up a driveway is typically poured in such a way that it directs water away from the building’s foundation.
How can I fix the concrete driveway that I have?
Remove debris. If a crack is less than a quarter of an inch in width, it is a good candidate for simple resurfacing, and you should also wash the driveway. Applying water to the driveway with a pressure washer, filling the cracks with a mixture of concrete and water, letting the driveway dry, and then resurfacing it will help prevent slips.
Is it possible to resurface a concrete driveway that has cracks?
Resurfacing or a concrete overlay, which is a thin layer of cement-based material applied directly over the existing concrete, can cover larger cracks or holes (greater than 14″ in diameter), spalling (horizontal peeling or chipping of the surface), and discoloration. Resurfacing is also an option for covering spalling.
How much of a distance should there be between the expansion joints in a concrete driveway?
In most cases, the distance between expansion joints should not exceed two to three times, measured in feet, the total width of the concrete (in inches). Therefore, expansion joints for a concrete slab that is 4 inches thick should not be more than 8 to 12 feet apart from one another.