A driveway is a paved surface that leads to and from a home or building. Driveway cracks can be a result of weathering, aging, or even something as simple as a heavy load. While driveway cracks are not always cause for alarm, they should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent them from becoming bigger and more expensive to fix.
So how to fix driveway cracks? Read more as we’ll tackle some of the common ways to repair cracks on a driveway in today’s post.
What Are The 4 Major Causes Why Cracks Develop On The Driveway
One of the most common problems with driveways is the development of cracks. While there can be many reasons for this, the 4 most common causes are weathering, settling, age, and heavy traffic.
To be specific, wear and tear from vehicles and weathering can cause the surface of a driveway to break down and crack. This is especially common in areas that experience a lot of extreme weather conditions. One such condition that can damage the driveway is frost heave. This condition occurs when moisture in the ground freezes and expands, causing the ground to push up against the driveway. This can cause cracks, as well as other damage. Another damaging weather is extreme heat from the sun, particularly, the UV rays. This can cause the asphalt to become brittle and crack.
Settling is another common cause of cracks in driveways. As the name suggests, this occurs when the ground beneath the driveway settles or shifts. This can be due to a number of reasons, such as poor drainage, excessive weight on the driveway, or even just the natural settling that occurs over time. Whatever the cause, when the ground settles, it can create cracks and other damage to the driveway.
Age is also a common cause of cracks in driveways. As driveways age, they can become more brittle and susceptible to damage. This is particularly true of asphalt driveways. Over time, the asphalt can oxidize and become hard and brittle. This makes it more likely to crack when exposed to stress or weight.
Additionally, heavy traffic can also cause the driveway to develop cracks. This is because the constant weight of vehicles can cause the driveway to sink or settle. This, in turn, can cause cracks to form.
The Effective Methods Of Repairing Driveway Cracks
There are a number of ways to fix cracks in driveways. Some of the most common methods are listed below.
One way to fix cracks in your driveway is to fill them with an asphalt repair caulk or sealant. This is a fairly simple and straightforward process. First, clean out the crack to remove any dirt, debris, or loose material. Next, apply the caulk or sealant to the crack, taking care to fill it completely. Once dry, the repair should be solid and secure.
Another way to fix cracks in your driveway is to patch them. This method is best for larger or more severe cracks. To patch the crack, first clean it out as described above. Next, fill the crack with a patching material, such as concrete patching compound or asphalt repair mix. Once dry, the patch should be level with the rest of the driveway.
For large or deep cracks, you may need to replace the damaged section of your driveway. This is a more involved repair, but it will ultimately be more durable and long-lasting. To replace the damaged section, first clean out the crack as described above. Next, use a saw to cut along the crack to create a straight edge. Finally, remove the damaged section and replace it with new asphalt or concrete.
No matter which method you choose, it is important to repair cracks in your driveway as soon as they appear. This will help prevent further damage and will keep your driveway looking its best. And to ensure quality results, it’s always recommended to hire a professional contractor to repair these eyesores on your driveway and restore it back to its former condition.
Why Hiring A Contractor Is Still The Most Practical Thing To Do
Fixing driveway cracks can be a daunting task. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you may be wondering if it’s expensive to hire a contractor to fix them for you. The answer to that question depends on a few factors, such as the size of your driveway and the severity of the cracks.
Generally speaking, hiring a contractor to fix cracks in your driveway will cost somewhere between $100 and $300. However, this price can vary depending on the region you live in and the contractor you choose.
But even if you’re going to spend hundreds of dollars for the repair, hiring a contractor is still a worthwhile investment since they will have the experience and know-how to fix the cracks properly. This will help extend the life of your driveway and prevent further damage from occurring. Go to Bluff City Paving Memphis today and see how can they help you with your driveway issue.