Asphalt and concrete driveways do not last forever and frequently require minor fixes. The methods for filling cracks is similar with both driveway kinds, but it’s important to get products that are especially created for your own driveway. A tacky black hydrocarbon retains aggregates in asphalt together, whereas cement retains aggregates in concrete together. Because of this, you should choose crack fillers or patches designed for either concrete or asphalt — each product only works on one form. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label.
Filler for Small Cracks
Pick a pourable filler for small cracks, according to Bob Vila. Both concrete and asphalt pourable fillers include a bottle that has a narrow pointed opening so you can direct the flow of material to the small crevice. Always remove dirt and weeds from the crack before adding filler. It’s very important to shake the bottle vigorously to ensure the contents are sufficiently mixed. Cut the tip of the bottle lid so that it’s slightly smaller than the width of your crack. You do not want to overfill the crack since it is going to enlarge as it dries. Asphalt filler also grows in hot temperatures and retracts in chilly weather. Use a gloved finger to smooth and flat the filler. Most manufacturers recommend allowing the filler to dry for 24 hours before applying another coat. Wait at least 24 to 48 hours before walking or driving on the fixed driveway surface, according to Lowe’s.
Stone-Grade Filler
For larger cracks, then elect for a stone-grade crack filler. This filler is thicker and has more aggregate and less liquid than small crack fillers. Stone-grade filler is not pourable and have to be applied with a small trowel or specially designed crack-filler tool. Clear broken pieces of concrete or asphalt out of the crack along with any dirt or weeds. Fill out the crack with stone-grade filler and then streamlined the material till it fits in the crevice closely and meets the surface of the driveway. Even though stone-grade filler can withstand immediate traffic, it might take up to six months to heal, according to Lowe’s. Keep away from high-power pressure washing or vigorous scrubbing that might loosen the filler.
Asphalt Patch Compound
If you have an asphalt driveway consider an asphalt patch chemical, indicates Bob Vila. Asphalt patch chemicals are designed to repair medium to big cracks, level out small depressions and fill potholes with a diameter greater than 2 inches. Use a trowel to spread a 1/4- to 1/2-inch layer of patching chemical into the crack. Allow each layer to dry and harden completely before adding the next. Apply additional layers before the patching compound is even with the asphalt coating and then smooth the edges with the trowel as you move. Allow the final patch to fix in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply a asphalt sealer to protect the patched area.
Sealant, Grout and Caulk for Concrete
If you’ve got a concrete driveway, then consider a fast fix crack repair solution like a hand-held tube of quick-drying concrete, concrete sheeting, grout or textured caulk. Only use these products on cracks that are less than 1/2 inch in width. They are dependable but do not always hold up well in high traffic areas or regions that are vulnerable to weathering. You might need to reapply them frequently. If you are using sealant or grout, wet the crack with a mister bottle of water before applying the product. Do not use water with textured caulk. Squeeze the quick-dry concrete, sealant, grout or textured caulk into the crack and then level it out with a small trowel or a hand float. Push down the material with your instrument so it matches and compacts the crack closely, according to RedBeacon.com. Use a gloved finger to wash off any surplus. Permit the material to dry in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.