05/04/2022
Asphalt and concrete are used in driveways because they are solid and durable materials. However, they can crack over time due to heat or heavy traffic.
There are many reasons why you might find yourself with a cracked driveway, and many different ways to fix the problem.
Whether you’re plagued with a small crack or giant pothole, let’s take a look at why the problem may be happening.
Why Does It Happen?
Many things can cause cracks in your driveway. For instance, the asphalt or concrete may have been laid incorrectly, causing it to settle the wrong way over time.
Likewise, the cracks may be due to poor installation of a base or subbase. Some contractors will use an improper base and/or subbase to save money on materials or time, leading to problems down the road.
If left untreated, those small cracks can turn into potholes that are both unsafe for vehicles and unattractive.
Another cause of potholes or cracks in your driveway could be the temperature. If there is a drastic temperature change, your driveway can crack as the asphalt or concrete expands and contracts.
The final possible cause is water from heavy rains causing hydrostatic pressure on your driveway.
How to Fix Driveway Cracks
There are many ways you can fix your cracked driveway. You can fill in the cracks with tar, epoxy paste, or asphalt crack sealant. This process is long and brutal, and without proper training, potentially dangerous.
If you want to DIY asphalt driveway crack repair, rent a concrete grinder and use a chisel. You can also use a drill in conjunction with the chisel for larger cracks or holes. If this process seems like too much work on your own, an expert can help !
There are two options when it comes to driveway repairs: patching or resurfacing. If your driveway is in reasonably good shape and only has cracks or divots, you can patch the affected areas.
This process involves smearing a driveway crack filler (like tar, epoxy paste, etc.) over the area of damage to fill it up and make it look new again.
If your driveway needs more serious work, we recommend resurfacing it. This process is more intensive than patching, but repairing small cracks or divots can be done in just one day.
For all other driveway issues – whether you need repairs, resealing, crack fillers, or sealant application for your asphalt driveways – we have the ideal solution for you.
What Are the Results of Driveway Crack Repair?
The last step in repairing your driveway is applying a sealant to prevent or slow down future cracks. This sealant will dry in 24-48 hours and will be completely clear, leaving you with a driveway that looks brand new.
The freshly colored driveway will improve the aesthetic of your home or business and also help protect your driveway from future damages.
Assess Your Cracked Driveway and Make a Decision
Cracks and damage to a concrete or asphalt driveway are a natural and common occurrence. Many people come home from work every day to a cracked driveway caused by wear and tear, improper installation, or weather.
Professional repair companies provide these people with fast service with amazing results.
If you are unsure about the severity of damage or need more information, give our experts a call today or fill out our estimation form at www.decarlolandscapingdesign.com.
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