Guidelines for Repairing Cracks on Concrete Driveways
Concrete driveways are deal for residential premises because they are fairly affordable. The surfaces can be stamped, coloured or acid-stained to enhance the aesthetics of the property. In addition, the material is hardwearing and highly durable, so you will enjoy long-term service. Regrettably, concrete driveways are not indestructible, so they are prone to damage from mechanical impact and normal wear-and-tear as the features age.
It is crucial to perform periodic maintenance such as sealing and resurfacing to preserve the structural integrity. Moreover, you should perform repairs immediately after any damage appears. It is advisable to contact a concrete contractor for professional maintenance and repair services. However, you can carry out the simple tasks, even without prior experience or skill. Here are basic guidelines on repairing cracks on your concrete driveway efficiently.
Clean Up
The crack in the concrete should be cleaned properly before the repair is carried out. This process will ensure that the new patching material will form a proper bond with the old surface. You will need to remove the loose pieces of concrete along the crack. You can use a cold chisel and mallet to create clean, backward-angled cuts. Sweep away the particles along the crack with a wire brush to complete this step.
Fill the Crack
Once the crack is clean, you can fill it to restore the integrity of the driveway surface. There are numerous types of concrete repair materials, so your choice will depend on factors such as the size of crack, budget and product quality. Most of the modern patching products in the market are polymer-modified concrete materials. Basically, these are produced by mixing regular cement with a polymer aggregate. You can use this patching compound to fill large cracks. Prepare the concrete according to the instructions, pour into the cracked area and compress with a trowel. If the damage is a thin crack, you can use concrete caulking for ideal results.
Allow Curing
You should allow the area to dry and cure properly before subjecting the surface to pressure from human or automotive entities. You can also section off the area if you are concerned about possible damage by pets or free livestock. Each product has different curing requirements and timeline, so check the manufacturer's instructions.
Seal the Surface
Concrete patching compounds are similar to regular concrete, so they are porous. The new surface can be infiltrated by water, leading to accelerated degradation of the repair. You should purchase a high-quality sealant and apply it after the patch is cured to mitigate future damage.
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