How to Make Concrete Driveway Repairs

Quick repair of cracks prevents water from seeping under the concrete.

With the right tools, a crack in concrete is quickly returned to like-new quality. The wind, rain and other elements sometimes take their toll on concrete driveways. The weight of vehicles and ground water also put stress on a driveway. When cracks occur, it is important to repair them as soon as possible to prevent further damage. A professional contractor may cost a mint, but the repairs are fairly affordable as a do-it-yourself project.

Things You'll Need

• Dish detergent
• Push broom
• Clean sand
• Quick drying concrete
• Bucket
• Shovel
• Trowel
• Sealant

Instructions

1. Wash the concrete. Use a dish detergent and water on the area and scrub with a push broom. Allow to dry.

2. Fill cracks or holes with construction or clean sand about half-way up.

3. Mix quick drying concrete in a bucket according to the manufacturer's directions. Stir with a shovel to mix.

4. Apply the concrete to the cracks or holes. Drop concrete in with a shovel along the entire crack and fill the holes.

5. Even out the new concrete with a trowel. Spread the extra along the edges of the crack to blend with the old concrete. Allow to dry for at least 12 hours.

6. Seal the concrete. Once the repair is dry, apply a concrete sealant to the entire driveway. Pour on the sealant and spread with a push broom.

Tips & Warnings

• If the crack is very deep, fill half-way with sand, then half-way to the top with concrete. Allow to dry and fill the rest with concrete.

• Failing to seal the concrete can lead to further cracking.

References

• Aubuchon Hardware: How to Repair Concrete

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish