Asphalt driveways are a long-lasting and economical option to homeowners, yet, with time, wear and tear, weather, and heavy traffic can cause cracks in the asphalt. Although it might appear that cracks in your asphalt driveway are not a big deal, when neglected, they can cause even more serious problems, such as potholes and structural collapse. Luckily, repairing asphalt driveway cracks is an easy task that can be undertaken by homeowners when equipped with the right tools and materials. In this guide, we will take you through the process of how to repair cracks in your asphalt driveway.
Why Fix Cracks in an Asphalt Driveway?
Before plunging into the process, it is worth knowing why it is essential to repair cracks in your asphalt driveway.
Prevent Water Damage
Asphalt cracks enable water to penetrate below the surface. With time, the foundation may weaken and develop bigger cracks, potholes, and structural damage as a result of the water. One of the primary causes of deterioration of asphalt is water penetration.
Improve Aesthetics
A driveway with cracks can negatively affect the curb appeal of your house. Not only does repairing the cracks keep your driveway operational, but it also makes it more attractive to look at, making your property look well cared for.
Extend the Life of Your Driveway
Repairing cracks appropriately will help you save money in the future since it will prevent further damage. Your driveway can last longer through regular maintenance so that minor cracks do not become major ones.
Tools and Materials Needed for Asphalt Crack Repair
Tools and materials you will need before you start repairing the cracks:
Asphalt Crack Filler: Crack fillers are special asphalt repair fillers that come in liquid or gel form.
Caulk Gun: Used for dispensing the crack filler.
Wire Brush or Broom: To remove the dust and debris in the cracks.
Putty Knife or Trowel: This is used to smooth and level the filler.
Rubber Gloves: To ensure that your hands are safe when using the crack filler.
Sealant (Optional): Applied to the whole driveway once the cracks have been repaired in order to prevent future cracking.
All the materials needed should be readily on hand to make the repair process run smoothly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Cracks in an Asphalt Driveway
With your preparations made, follow these steps to repair the cracks in your asphalt driveway.
Step 1: Clean the Cracks
Cleaning the cracks is the first step and the most important one in the repair process. Loosened asphalt, dirt, and debris may not allow the filler to bond to the surface adequately. Here’s how to clean the cracks:
Clean out any loose debris, dirt, and gravel with a wire brush or a broom inside the crack.
Wash out the crack using water to remove the dirt remaining. Leave the area to dry and then move on to the next step.
Step 2: Inspect the Cracks
After cleaning out the cracks, examine them to establish their size and depth. Cracks that are less than half an inch wide can often be filled with a crack filler, but larger cracks or potholes may need asphalt patching. When the cracks are wider than half an inch, it is better to use a patching compound instead of a filler.
Step 3: Apply the Crack Filler
Crack filler is the most recommended if you have smaller cracks (less than half an inch wide).
Follow these steps to apply it:
Ready the filler: If you have a liquid crack filler, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions as to the proper mixing and application of the filler.
Apply the filler: Fill the crack completely by dispensing the filler using a caulk gun. Begin at the rear of the crack and proceed to the front.
Smooth the surface: After filling the crack, use a putty knife or trowel to smooth the surface and remove any excess filler.
Step 4: Fill Larger Cracks or Potholes
With bigger cracks or potholes, you might have to apply an asphalt patching compound.
Follow these steps:
Mix the patching material: Follow the instructions in the patching compound packaging.
Put on the patch: Pour the patching material into the pothole or crack, and smooth with a trowel.
Compact the patch: Take a tamper or heavy object and compact the material to remove any air.
Step 5: Allow the Filler to Dry
Once the filler/patching material is in place, leave it to dry. The drying process may vary with different products but as a rule, you must give the filler at least 24 hours to dry. During this process, do not drive or park on the repaired area.
Optional Step: Seal the Driveway
Once the cracks are fixed and the filler has dried, then it is a good idea to seal the whole driveway. Sealcoating aids in protecting the asphalt against water, UV rays, and chemicals so that the driveway does not continue to wear out.
How to Apply Sealant:
Clean the driveway: This will require cleaning the driveway before applying the sealant to ensure that there is no dirt, debris, or remnants of the filler.
Sealant: With a paint roller or squeegee, apply a thin, uniform coating of sealant over the whole driveway in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Let it dry: Wait until the sealant dries and the driveway can be used, which in most cases takes 24 to 48 hours.
Tips for Maintaining Your Asphalt Driveway
The moment your driveway cracks are fixed, it is necessary to maintain it to avoid future problems.
These are some tips that can assist you in ensuring that your asphalt driveway stays in good shape:
Sealcoat: Reapply sealant every 1 to 3 years to protect the asphalt against the weather.
Clean driveway: Sweep away debris and dirt to avoid moisture build-up and cracks being blocked.
Seal crack early: Seal any minor cracks as soon as you discover them to avoid having them worsen into larger and more costly repairs.