Easy Do-It-Yourself Project Takes Care of Concrete Cracks and Joints

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Over time, winter weather can take a toll on your driveway.  Spring is a great time to tackle any damage and prevent problems in the future.  All you need is a hose, caulk, caulk gun, spray bottle, soap and water, and a rag.  Here’s a quick look at what causes the cracks, why you should caulk the joints, and the steps you can take.

To get started, wash out your garage and your driveway when the nice weather arrives.  You can use a power washer or a garden hose with a sprayer attached.  Start at the back of the garage and work forward.  Do the same with the driveway by starting at the top of the driveway.  Be sure to remove any debris and dirt, paying extra attention to the joints.  Wait a day or two for the concrete to thoroughly dry before applying any caulking, to ensure proper adhesion.

Beyond cracks, your driveway may have also experienced heaving where the concrete at the joints gets pushed up.  The entire driveway is sectioned off into joints that need to be caulked.  Last year, Omaha experienced a heavy frost in mid-December.  At that point there was a lot of moisture, rain and snow.  What happened was the ground got saturated and then froze, which then could have caused heaving.  So by caulking joints you’ll prevent extra moisture, whether it’s rain or snow melt, from getting under the concrete, freezing and pushing it up.

Keep in mind that if you’re not handy or too busy there are companies that can do this for you.  Otherwise, it’s a do-it-yourself project.  Here’s how.  To fill the cracks, cut the caulk tip about 1/8 to /14” in width and place it in the caulk gun.  The brand Vulkem works well.  To seal the cracks, apply the caulking based on how wide the crack is.  To fill the joints, apply a bead the width of the joint and about two feet in length.  Use a spray bottle with a soap and water mixture to spray on the caulk and your finger.  Spray the applied caulk and then smooth it out with your finger.  If there is excessive caulk, wipe it down with a rag. Continue in two feet areas until all the driveway control joints have been filled.  Remember to go slow and apply evenly. If you need to stop and take a break, do so.  The important part is to give the joints uniform coverage.

We hope you find these tips helpful.  Don’t hesitate to call us if you need anything and please come out to see our new models in Pebblebrooke at 174th and Highway 370 and our models in Saddlebrook at 150th and Fort.  You can reach us at Pebblebrooke at (402) 502-5600 and at Saddlebrook at (402) 934-2212.  We look forward to seeing you!