Caulking a Driveway

Driveway cracks require sealing to prevent further damage.

Cracks in asphalt and concrete driveways absorb water. If it gets cold, the water will freeze. The expansion of frozen water will damage the area around the ground and degrade the driveway. Over time, the driveway will break down beyond repair. Sealing the cracks with an exterior grade caulk – one designed for driveways – will eliminate the chances of increased water damage and extend the life of your driveway. Certain steps need to be taken to ensure the caulk bonds to the driveway crack.

Things You'll Need

• Flathead screwdriver
• Wire brush
• Dust brush
• Pressurized air
• Driveway-grade caulk
• Sharp knife
• Caulk gun
• Pointed masonry trowel
• Water-filled spray bottle
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Drag the tip of a flathead screwdriver along both sides of the crack. Slide the tip of the screwdriver along the bottom of the crack until no debris larger than a pencil eraser remains in the bottom of the crevice.

2. Brush the area vigorously with a wire brush to remove small debris from the bottom of the crack. Sweep a dust brush along the crack to remove large deposits of dirt and loose dust. Blow out the crack with pressurized air.

3. Using driveway-grade caulk in a caulk gun, force the tip of the caulk tube deep in the crack. Squeeze the caulk gun handle and pull the caulk gun along the crack. Allow the caulk to rise 1/16 to 1/8 inch above the surface of the driveway.

4. Pull the tip of a pointed masonry trowel along the caulk to force it into the crack. Spray water on the smoothed caulk. Brush a water-dampened paintbrush over the wet caulk to blend it into the surface of the driveway.

Tips & Warnings

• Push backer rod into cracks 1/2 inch or wider before applying caulk.

• Do not apply paint to driveway caulk for 24 to 48 hours.

References

• Dupont: DuPont™ Driveway and Repair Sealant Made with Kevlar® Application