Driveway Rescue: A Step-by-Step Guide to Repair Driveway Cracks

When spring arrives in Canada, it often brings the unwelcome sight of new driveway cracks. This is due to the relentless freeze-thaw cycles of winter. Water seeps into the surface of your driveway, freezes, and expands, causing cracks to form. Add to that the use of rock salt, which attracts more moisture, and you've got a recipe for damage. These cracks may start small but can quickly grow larger if left unattended.

Thankfully, addressing these cracks early is a simple, budget-friendly task you can tackle anytime. With just a few essential tools and materials, you can fill in the cracks and seal your driveway against further damage. This not only keeps your driveway looking its best but also saves you from more costly repairs in the future.

Evaluating Your Driveway's Condition

Start by conducting a thorough inspection of your driveway. Walk along the entire length of the driveway and look for cracks, potholes, and surface wear. To assess the damage accurately, use measuring tape or a ruler to measure the cracks' length, width, and depth. Mark areas of significant damage with chalk or a marker for further inspection.

Understanding Crack Width & Depth

Small, surface-level cracks in a concrete or asphalt driveway are typical wear and tear in our Canadian climate. However, deep or wide cracks may indicate underlying structural issues with the foundation that require professional attention.

Width

• Small Cracks: less than 64mm (1/4"): Often superficial and can be repaired with filler.
• Medium Cracks: 64 to 127mm (1/4 to 1/2"): These are more severe issues but are still repairable with proper materials.
• Large Cracks: more than 1.27cm (1/2"): These suggest significant structural problems requiring more extensive repairs.

Depth

• Shallow Cracks: Typically surface-level and less concerning, they can be filled easily.
• Deep Cracks: Penetrate through the driveway's surface and might affect the foundation, requiring professional intervention.

Knowing When to Bring in a Professional

While you can fix much of your driveway's cracks with the right materials, there are times when you should call in a professional:

• Widespread Damage: If your driveway has many cracks and potholes or is crumbling and eroding, it's best to get professional help.
• Structural Issues: When you see big sunken spots, bulges, or other major uneven areas, it might mean something is wrong with the foundation.
• Drainage Problems: If water pools on the surface or you notice erosion or washouts along the edges, this can lead to severe damage and needs expert attention.
• Age and Material Condition: If your driveway is over 20 years old or shows heavy wear, such as fading, pitting, or flaking, it may be time for a professional assessment.
• Previous Repair Failures: If areas you've repaired before are falling apart again or temporary fixes aren't working, you should get a professional to take a look.

Easy DIY Driveway Crack Repair

Tools & Materials

• Measuring tape or ruler
• Chalk, marker, or spray paint
• Broom, leaf blower, or vacuum
• Pressure washer (optional but effective for deep cleaning)
• Degreaser or cleaning solution + wire brush (for stubborn spots)
• Trowel, putty knife, or scrapper (optional but helpful for a smooth finish)
• For Asphalt Driveways: ASPHALT Filler & Sealant
• For Concrete Driveways: AMP Advanced Modified Polymer Self-Leveling Concrete & Masonry Sealant
• Complete driveway sealant like Rust-Oleum EPOXYSHIELD® Blacktop Coating

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Clean the Driveway & Prepare the Area

• Use a broom, leaf blower, or vacuum to remove loose debris such as leaves, dirt, and small stones. For a superior clean, use a pressure washer to remove stubborn dirt, oil stains, and moss.
• If needed, use a degreaser or other cleaning solution to treat oil stains and other persistent spots. Scrub with a wire brush and rinse thoroughly.
• For best results with the ASPHALT Filler & Sealant, allow the surface to dry completely before application. On the other hand, AMP Concrete & Masonry Sealant can be applied on wet surfaces and still have strong adhesion.

2. Apply the Filler

• The ASPHALT and AMP Concrete & Masonry Sealants are ready to use from the tube. Cut the tip of the applicator at a 45-degree angle and puncture the inner seal. Load the tube into a caulking gun and squeeze the sealant into the cracks.
• Use enough sealant to allow for some settling. In the case of ASPHALT Filler & Sealant, you may want to overfill slightly to accommodate shrinkage. However, this is unnecessary for AMP Concrete & Masonry Sealant due to its shrink-proof formula.
• If needed, smooth the sealant with a trowel, putty knife, or scraper before it starts to set.
• Wait to drive over the repaired area; let it cure as directed, generally about 24 hours. Remember, high humidity or cooler temperatures can slow the drying process.

3. Seal & Protect Your Driveway: Additional Step for Durability

• After repairing any cracks, be sure to apply a sealant to protect the entire surface. This barrier will help prevent water, chemical, and UV damage, prolonging the life of your driveway and keeping it looking new. Please consult the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) to determine the appropriate waiting period before painting over the repaired areas.
• RUST-OLEUM offers a great lineup of full driveway coatings. To complete your driveway transformation, explore EpoxyShield Blacktop and RockSolid Concrete Coatings.

Get more useful application tips from renowned home renovation expert Ryan Thompson!

Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Driveway

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your driveway in optimal condition. Begin by regularly cleaning and inspecting it. Use a broom or leaf blower to clear away debris. Periodically, perform a deep clean with a pressure washer and promptly treat oil and other stains with a degreaser to prevent them from settling in and causing damage.

It is generally recommended to reapply sealant to your driveway every 2 to 3 years to protect against water, chemicals, UV light, and wear. Choose the appropriate sealant based on your driveway's material. Follow the manufacturer's directions carefully: make sure the surface is well-cleaned before application and allow the sealant to dry thoroughly for effective protection.

Make it a habit to regularly inspect your driveway for cracks, potholes, and any signs of deterioration. Make sure your gutters are effectively directing water away from the driveway, and address any drainage issues by filling in low spots. Most importantly, seek professional advice promptly to prevent further damage if you notice any concerning issues.

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