How To Repair & Resurface Driveways

Repair Your Cracked Driveway with SANI-TRED®

Cracks in driveways are almost inevitable over time. Various factors, such as tree roots growing beneath the concrete pad or the freeze-thaw cycle that causes concrete to expand and contract by up to 9%, can lead to cracks. Rather than breaking up and pouring a new slab, why not repair the driveway cracks with SANI-TRED® sealer? This guide will walk you through the steps to prepare, repair, and resurface your driveway, ensuring a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Understanding the Causes of Driveway Cracks

Before diving into the repair process, it's essential to understand why cracks appear in the first place. Tree roots can exert pressure from beneath the concrete, causing it to crack. Similarly, the freeze-thaw cycle can cause water within the concrete to freeze and expand, then thaw and contract, leading to cracks. These natural occurrences can significantly damage your driveway over time, but with the right approach, you can repair and prevent further damage.

Preparing Concrete for Repair

Preparation is the most critical step in ensuring a successful DIY driveway crack repair and concrete resurfacing. Removing all mold, mildew, and ground-in dirt is essential for the sealer to adhere correctly. The best way to prepare concrete is through acid etching and pressure washing.

How to Acid Etch Concrete

1. Gather Materials: You'll need Muriatic Acid, which is available at most hardware stores, paint supply stores, lumber companies, swimming pool supply stores, and large retail stores like Walmart and Kmart.
2. Mixing Solution: Combine Muriatic Acid with water following the recommended ratio (typically 1 part acid to 10 parts water). Always add acid to water, not water to acid, to avoid a dangerous reaction.
3. Apply the Solution: Use a garden sprayer to evenly distribute the acid solution across the concrete surface. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then scrub the area with a stiff-bristled brush.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the concrete with a pressure washer to remove all residues.

For detailed instructions, refer to our advanced guide on how to acid etch concrete.

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Cleaning and Preparing Cracks

Once the surface is clean, take extra time to clean out all the cracks and crevices, no matter how small or thin. This step is crucial to ensure that your concrete patching has a good surface to adhere to. Use a wire brush or compressed air to remove loose debris from the cracks.

Priming the Concrete

After the concrete is completely dry, prime the surface with a coat of PermaFlex™ (240 sq ft per gallon) using a roller or squeegee. This coat acts as a binder within the substrate. PermaFlex™ can be thinned with Xylene (where allowed) or Acetone to enhance rapid and deep absorption into the concrete.

Patching and Profiling

Next, patch and profile any joints, seams, cracks, holes, and rough areas using the LRB/TAV™ mixture (Liquid Rubber Base mixed with Thickening Activator). Follow these steps:

1. Mixing: Combine 2 parts LRB with 1 part TAV™ to create a thick mixture, similar in viscosity to silicone caulk.
2. Application: For wall/floor junctions, apply a 1-inch diameter caulk bead of the mixture. For most other cracks and joints, use a 3/4-inch diameter caulk bead.
3. Smoothing: Smooth out the mixture with a putty knife or trowel to ensure a level surface.

The LRB/TAV™ mixture creates a durable, flexible seal that will move with the concrete, preventing future cracks from forming.

Applying the Basecoat

Once the patches are complete, apply a topcoat of PermaFlex® (240 sq ft per gallon). This basecoat provides a durable layer that binds the patching material and the concrete surface, ensuring long-lasting protection.

Adding a Decorative Surface (Optional)

If you desire a decorative finish, consider using the Graniflex™ system. This system allows you to achieve the look of granite, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your driveway. Detailed instructions for applying Graniflex™ can be found at the Concrete Protector website.

Final Topcoat

To complete the resurfacing process, apply a final coat of PermaFlex® at the same coverage rate. This topcoat seals the surface, providing additional protection and a smooth, uniform finish.

Curing and Finishing

After applying the final coat, allow the surface to cure properly:

• Foot Traffic: Your DIY concrete driveway resurfacing should be able to handle foot traffic within 6 hours of adding the texture.
• Vehicle Traffic: Allow about 24 hours before driving your car onto the resurfaced driveway.

This curing time ensures that the coatings have bonded effectively, providing a robust and durable finish.

 

Benefits of SANI-TRED® Driveway Repair

Using SANI-TRED® products for driveway repair offers several benefits:

• Cost-Effective: Repairing cracks with SANI-TRED® is much cheaper than replacing the entire driveway.
• Durable: The products create a flexible, waterproof seal that prevents future damage.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Options like the Graniflex™ system allow for a decorative finish that enhances curb appeal.
• Easy to Use: The step-by-step process is straightforward, making it accessible for DIY enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Repairing a cracked driveway doesn't have to be an expensive or complicated task. By following these steps and using SANI-TRED® products, you can efficiently repair and resurface your driveway, ensuring it looks great and remains durable for years to come. Proper preparation, priming, patching, and sealing are critical to achieving a professional-quality finish. Start your driveway repair project today with confidence, knowing that SANI-TRED® provides the tools and products needed for success.