How To Repair Cracks In Your Concrete Driveway
Has your concrete driveway begun to develop cracks as a result of heavy traffic or extreme weather conditions? If so, you should know that you can often repair these cracks yourself without the need to hire a professional contractor. In order to accomplish this task, simply follow the step by step instructions below.
What You Will Need
- Pressure Washer
- Concrete Resurfacing Mix
- Bucket
- Plain Water
- Mixing Paddle and 1/2 Inch Drill
- Rubber Squeegee with Extended Handle
Step #1: Prepare The Concrete For Repair
Before you can repair the cracks in your concrete driveway, you will first need to remove all dirt and debris from in and around these cracks. In order to do this, you will need to wash the entire driveway using a pressure washer. Be sure to wash inside of the cracks when performing this task. If any debris is left inside the crack, it can prevent the repair materials from adhering properly.
If you encounter difficult stains or dirt buildup when cleaning your driveway, you may wish to add some masonry cleaner to your pressure water in order to easily do away with this stubborn dirt and debris.
Step #2: Fill The Cracks
Begin my mixing your concrete refinishing product with the appropriate amount of water according to the instructions on the packaging. This should be done in a large bucket using a mixing paddle that is attached to a 1/2 inch drill. Continue mixing the concrete until it resembles a thick batter.
Once the repair materials are ready, pour the mixture into the cracks. Using your flat edge trowel, force the mixture as deep into the cracks as possible in order to ensure a long lasting repair. Finally, use the flat edge of your trowel to smooth the surface of the repair.
Step #3: Create A Flawless Finish
Once the repair patch has been allowed to dry for several hours, you will need to mix another batch of concrete refinisher. This batch should be much thinner than the batch that was used to fill the cracks in your driveway.
After mixing the concrete, simply pour the mixture over the entire driveway and use a rubber squeegee to smooth the mixture out until you have created a uniform appearance over the entire driveway. Allow this coat of concrete to dry for at least one entire day before you resume use of your driveway in order to avoid damaging the finish before it can dry completely.
If you prefer that a professional do the work for you, contact a group like S&W Concrete.
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