Quick and Easy Ways to Repair Your Driveway or Path
Your driveway and pathways can create a great first impression for your home. But if they are cracked, they can also look unsightly and even be a safety hazard. This article will discuss the causes and culprits of concrete cracks, as well as some best-practice tips for repairing them.
Causes and culprits of concrete cracks
There are many things that can cause concrete to crack, including:
Tree roots: Tree roots can grow under concrete and exert pressure on it, causing it to crack.
Water erosion: Standing water can seep into porous concrete and cause it to expand and contract, which can lead to cracking.
Impacts: Heavy objects dropped on concrete can cause it to crack.
Overloads: Overloading a concrete driveway or path with too much weight can also cause it to crack.
Assessing the severity of concrete cracking
The severity of a concrete crack will depend on its size, width, and depth. Small cracks that are less than 3mm wide are usually not a major problem and can be easily repaired. However, larger cracks that are more than 1cm wide or deep may require more extensive repairs.
Best-practice tips for repairing concrete cracks
The best way to repair a concrete crack will depend on its size and severity. However, there are some general tips that can apply to most repairs:
Clean the area around the crack. Remove any dirt, debris, or plant matter from the area around the crack.
Widen the crack. If the crack is small, you may need to widen it slightly to allow the filler to properly adhere.
Apply a concrete crack filler. There are a variety of concrete crack fillers available, so choose one that is appropriate for the size and severity of the crack.
Smooth the filler. Once the filler is applied, smooth it out with a trowel or other tool.
Allow the filler to dry. The filler will need to dry completely before the area can be used.
Looking after your driveway to prevent cracks
In addition to repairing cracks, there are a few things you can do to help prevent them from occurring in the first place:
Remove tree roots. If tree roots are causing your concrete to crack, have them removed by a professional.
Apply a water sealant. A water sealant can help to prevent water from seeping into your concrete and causing it to expand and contract.
Have your concrete inspected regularly. If you notice any cracks or other signs of damage, have your concrete inspected by a professional.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your driveway or path looking its best and prevent cracks from occurring.
Conclusion
Keeping your concrete in good repair is great for looks, and it also makes your property safer. When it’s a driveway or a path to your front door, smooth, quality concrete makes a good first impression for visitors and potential purchasers.
