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Concrete Driveway Repair

Suketu Mehta
Concrete driveways tend to develop cracks due to rough usage and various other reasons. Repairing the cracks on your own is a simple task. This article takes you through the steps for repair.
Most driveways are made of either concrete or asphalt. These days, concrete has become more popular due to the various decorative options it provides, making your driveway look beautiful without burning a hole in your pocket. The quality of materials used along with the workmanship will determine how long your driveway stays in good shape.
The concrete used to build your driveway is made of four basic ingredients: gravel, cement, sand, and water. Sand and gravel are held together tightly by the cement. This happens because there is a chemical reaction that takes place when water is added to the cement powder, which results in the formation of small crystals.
These crystals then form a mesh which holds all the irregular sand and gravel particles together. Thus, the more crystals formed, the stronger the bond becomes, and your driveway will last longer.
When cracks develop in the concrete, it needs a repair. Cracks in the driveway are caused due to very cold temperatures, the growth of roots of trees, or movement of the soil. Instead of spending money and getting a new one, you can easily repairs those cracks.

Materials Required

  • Cleaning solution
  • Trowel
  • Bucket with 5 gallon capacity
  • Hose
  • Mixing paddle
  • Concrete resurfacing mix
  • Extended handle
  • Water
  • Cordless drill
  • Pressure washer
  • Float
  • Broom
  • Rubber squeegee with a long handle

Instructions

Step 1

Using a power washer, clean the driveway. In the reservoir of power washer, add a masonry cleaning solution to the water. Pay attention where cracks are formed and remove dirt from these areas or the sealant may not stick well and hold the crack.

Step 2

Decide how much concrete mix is needed for cracks. Fill water and add cement resurfacer mix. It doesn't take long to prepare the mix, you can make more later if needed. Mix ingredients in the bucket with a cordless drill with mixing paddle attached till it is thick.

Step 3

Fill all cracks with the mixture you just prepared, and then use a trowel to push the mixture into the cracks. After the cracks are filled, drag a float over it so that the surface becomes smooth. Leave the cracks to dry for about 14 to 16 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 4

Next day, make water and concrete resurfacing mix mixture in the bucket. Thin it by adding water and less resurfacing mix. Spray water on driveway and pour the mixture. Use a rubber squeegee to spread it evenly. Ensure that mixture covers entire surface.

Step 5

To give the surface a textured look, sweep it with a broom. This will also make your driveway less slippery for the time that it is wet. Attach an external handle to the broom handle so that you can reach far away places. Leave it to dry for 6 to 8 hours, after which you can walk on it. Drive your car only after 24 hours have passed.
If you do it yourself, the cost of repair should be less as you would be spending only on the materials required to repair the cracks.
However, if you wish to get it done professionally, then the cost could be anywhere between USD 2-6 per square foot, depending on the extent of the damage and the overall area. If repaired properly, your driveway should last for 8 to 12 years without any problems.