If you’ve had a concrete driveway for any long length of time, then it’s likely that some deterioration has occurred. Whether it’s due to the wear from repeated use or because of the weather, there comes a time when you’ll need to perform maintenance on the pavement. This is easier said than done if you’re not sure where to start. With that being said, here’s how to repair a concrete driveway so you can get back to driving on a quality surface.
How do You Fix a Crumbling Concrete Driveway?
Fixing concrete can be an easy process or an arduous one. It all depends on the severity of the driveway’s deterioration. If you find that you’re having to deal with more than you can handle or are having problems with the patching process, then call a professional at (317) 746-6125. Improper repairs can oftentimes do more harm than good to the overall quality of the concrete. That aside, if the job is as simple as filling in a few cracks, then you may be able to fix it yourself.
1. Cleaning the Area
Upon purchasing the concrete mix that you’re planning to fill the gaps with, the first step is to clean the driveway. Doing this will keep unwanted materials out of the mix once it sets.
2. Preparing the Concrete Mix
After you’ve cleaned the surface and the problem areas thoroughly the next step is to add water to your mix. Make sure you check the bag so you can determine the proper amount of water that’s needed for the concrete.
3. Applying the Concrete Mix
Make sure the ambient temperature is above 40 degrees if you want the concrete to be set properly. Take your putty knife and work the concrete into the cracks before smoothing it out. It’s going to take some time to set, so make sure that you don’t walk or drive on the problem areas for a while.
How Much Does it Cost to Repair a Concrete Driveway?
Depending on the scale of the project, you may have to hire a company to come and take care of the repairs for you. The cost of this varies greatly depending on a few different factors. For one, you need to take into account how much work is actually being done. For example, filling in cracks is going to be drastically cheaper than repaving the whole surface.
You’ll also need to receive an estimate from your chosen company beforehand. Different businesses charge different amounts. However, this generally means that different businesses also deliver a different level of quality. Affordability is important, but a new driveway is an investment and you want it to last for many years. An important preventative measure is regularly cleaning your driveway. Learn to do so properly.
When to DIY vs. Call a Professional
Not all concrete driveway repairs require heavy equipment or expert-level knowledge. If the damage is minor—like small cracks, shallow surface pits, or light scaling—you can likely tackle the job yourself with a few tools and a bit of patience. DIY patching kits and concrete fillers are readily available at most hardware stores, and online tutorials make it easier than ever to follow step-by-step instructions.
However, more serious issues require a professional touch. If your driveway has large sections of crumbling concrete, deep cracks that keep reappearing, uneven slabs, or signs of subbase failure (like sinking or pooling water), it’s best to call in an expert. Improper DIY repairs can make problems worse, leading to more extensive—and expensive—repairs down the line.
In general, if the structural integrity of your driveway is compromised or if you’re unsure what caused the damage in the first place, it’s worth consulting a paving professional. They can diagnose the issue, recommend the most effective solution, and ensure the repairs are done safely and correctly—giving your driveway a longer, stronger lifespan.
How Can We Serve You?
The professional paving contractors at Sipes Asphalt & Concrete know the ideal conditions for pouring concrete or asphalt. Whether it’s a new driveway, parking lot, or crack sealing, we’ve got you covered. Call Sipes for your paving estimate and the best paving solutions in the Indianapolis area.
