Concrete Driveway Repair
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| Asphalt Driveway | Concrete Driveway | Brick Driveway | Gravel Driveway | Stone Driveway |
Concrete Driveway Repair
Likewise, they should remove weeds, grass, and debris that collect in minor cracks. It is also important to reseal a concrete driveway regularly and to ensure that it has proper drainage. If standing water is forming on a concrete driveway, it requires a drain.
However, even well maintained concrete driveways will develop cracks that require repair over the years. Common causes include the natural freeze/thaw cycles that occur during the winter and tree roots growing beneath the surface. Unless the damage is severe, homeowners can usually repair the driveway using a concrete resurfacer. This long lasting solution is more economical than pouring a new slab.
How to Repair Concrete Driveway Cracks
Prior to repairing the crack, thoroughly clean the driveway surface with a pressure washer and a proper masonry cleaning solution. The tools required to repair the cracks include a bag of concrete resurfacer, a five-gallon bucket, a mixing paddle, a trowel, a rubber squeegee, and a long-handled broom. Follow the instructions on the bag of resurfacer to create a mixture with a thick consistency. Then pour this mixture into the cracks. Use a trowel to get the resurfacer mixture deep into the cracks and then to smooth the surface.
After allowing the first application to set overnight, a second application, with a much looser mixture of resurfacer, is applied. First, lightly hose down the concrete slab and then apply the resurfacer. Use the squeegee to spread the mixture out into a thin, even coat. Use the long-handled broom while the resurfacer is setting to give the surface some texture. The repaired concrete will need to set for twenty-four hours before it can handle the load of a vehicle.
How to Apply Sealant on Concrete Driveway
Once the repaired concrete has set for three weeks, reseal the entire driveway. A great practice for homeowners to follow is to reseal a driveway every three to five years. If the driveway was properly cleaned before resurfacing, it should still be suitably clean for sealing. If the driveway requires cleaning, it should be allowed to dry for twenty-four hours prior to applying the sealer. Likewise, it is important to avoid rain during the twenty-four hour period needed for the sealer to set.
Tools required for concrete driveway sealing are masonry sealer and pump-up garden spray. Use Silane or Siloxane-based masonry sealers only. Brushes and rollers can be used to apply the sealer but sprayers are by far the easiest means of application. Apply a thin, even layer to the entire driveway surface. Make certain that the liquid does not pool and if it does, even it with a brush or roller immediately. Then allow the sealer to dry for 24 hours prior to use.