How to Caulk a Driveway

Cracks like these can be repaired with driveway caulk.

Over time, weathering and vehicles cause asphalt or concrete to crack. Cracks can turn into larger fissures that require having to hire someone to pave or concrete your driveway. You can repair the minor cracks yourself with caulk.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic caulk blade
• Stir stick
• Broom
• Water hose
• Hose spray attachment
• Caulking gun
• Small chisel (optional)
• Hammer (optional)

Instructions

Preparation

1. Sweep the driveway thoroughly to remove all dirt and debris.

2. Remove broken pieces inside the cracks. Use the small chisel and hammer to pry pieces out if necessary.

3. Use the water hose and spray attachment, on high setting, to spray remaining dirt and debris off the driveway. For some caulks used with concrete, powerwashing is not recommended because concrete takes so long to dry.

4. Spray out the cracks in the driveway to allow the caulk to adhere properly. Allow the entire driveway, including the cracks, to dry completely.

Caulk Tubes

1. Use a tube and caulking gun for cracks less than 1/4 inch wide. Insert the driveway tube into the caulk gun. Squeeze the caulk gun trigger until the caulk starts coming out. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.

2. Place the tip of the caulk tube at one end of your crack and squeeze the trigger continuously.

3. Fill the crack, moving down the length, stopping when the caulk overflows from the crack slightly.

4. Spread the caulk evenly at the surface using the plastic caulk blade, from one end to the other. Repeat for each additional crack and allow proper drying time before you use your driveway.

Caulk Can or Jug

1. Use a caulk can for cracks wider than 1/4 inch. Stir the caulk thoroughly using the stir stick.

2. Apply the caulk to the crack using the plastic caulk blade by scooping out the caulk and scraping the blade against the crack. This forces the caulk into the crack.

3. Pack the caulk into the crack tightly by using an edge or corner of the blade to press the caulk down.

4. Add caulk to the crack until it overflows and then smooth out the surface using the caulk blade.

5. Repeat for all your cracks. Wait for the caulk to cure completely before driving on the surface.

Tips & Warnings

• When you are caulking the cracks, make sure that you allow enough time for the cracks to dry completely; concrete takes longer than asphalt. Make sure your product is recommended for the surface type.

• If your crack is deeper than1/2 inch, some caulks are usable in layers, however, some manufacturers suggest using a backer rod.

• The caulk needs at least seven hours to harden completely in between coats and after the final coat, although different caulks vary.

• Caulks are not recommended for areas that are submersed in water.

• For concrete driveways, do not caulk the grooves in between the slabs; they are there to help prevent damage by contracting and expanding.

References

• DuPont: DuPont Driveway & Repair Sealant Made With Kevlar Application

Resources

• Hyperseal: Hyperflex Rubber Parking Lot & Driveway Caulk- Series 302