Cracks in your driveway start small, a thin line here, a shallow gap there. During winter, things get worse as water seeps in, freezes, and expands. That tiny crack soon turns into a pothole, and what could have been a simple fix now costs hundreds or even thousands to repair.
Whether your driveway is asphalt or concrete, using the right repair method will keep it strong and durable for years.
Read on to learn how to fix driveway cracks and what it might cost you.
Why Driveway Cracks Happen
Before fixing your driveway, you need to know several factors that lead to cracking:
- Temperature Changes
- Ground/Soil Movement
- Heavy Loads
- Poor Installation
- Aging
Types of Driveway Cracks
Different cracks need different repairs. But first, identify the type to choose the right repair method.
Hairline Cracks
These are thin, shallow cracks less than 1/4 inch wide. They’re mostly cosmetic but can worsen if ignored. Hairline cracks often appear in new concrete than in asphalt, but can develop from surface wear.
Linear Cracks
Straight cracks usually indicate settling or ground movement. These cracks can be any width. Narrow ones are easy to fill, but wider ones may signal foundation problems.
Alligator Cracks
Multiple interconnected cracks create a pattern resembling alligator skin. This indicates serious structural damage. Simple filling won’t fix this; you might need professional help.
Edge Cracks
Cracks along the driveway edges happen when support is lacking. Vehicles driving too close to the edge stress the material.
What Is the Best Material to Fill Driveway Cracks?
Choosing the right filler depends on crack size and driveway material, and also if your driveway is of asphalt or concrete.
1. For Asphalt Driveways
Rubberized Asphalt Crack Filler
This is the top choice for an asphalt driveway. It’s flexible and moves with temperature changes. It bonds well and resists water penetration.
Available in tubes for caulking guns or squeeze bottles for small jobs.
Larger cracks need pourable versions that come in bottles or buckets.
Cold Pour Crack Filler
The material is ready to use straight from the container. It works well for cracks up to 1/2 inch wide.
Less durable than hot-pour products but much easier for DIYers. Good for quick fixes and moderate climates.
Hot Pour Rubberized Crack Filler
Professional-grade material heated before application. It flows easily into cracks and bonds strongly.
This requires special equipment to heat and pour safely.
It’s overkill for small residential jobs, but it provides the longest-lasting repair.
2. For Concrete Driveways
Concrete Crack Filler
Specially formulated for concrete surfaces, bonds to cement and matches the gray color well.
It is available in squeeze tubes and caulking cartridges.
Some versions include bonding agents for better adhesion.
Polyurethane Crack Filler
Flexible sealant that works on concrete and asphalt.
It expands and contracts with temperature changes.
More expensive than standard fillers but lasts longer.
Ideal for wide cracks or areas with extreme weather.
Concrete Patching Compound
For cracks wider than 1/2 inch. It’s thicker and includes aggregate similar to concrete.
Some types require mixing while others are ready to use.
They create a stronger repair than simple fillers.
Epoxy Crack Filler
The strongest option for concrete. It creates a permanent, rigid repair.
Best for structural cracks or high-stress areas.
Not ideal for hairline cracks as it doesn’t flex.
It is a difficult to apply than other materials for quick fixes.
3. Universal Options
Acrylic Latex Crack Filler
It is water-based and easy to clean up, works on both asphalt and concrete driveways.
Less durable than specialized products but acceptable for small, low-traffic cracks.
It is a budget-friendly option for minor repairs.
How Much Does It Cost to Repair Driveway Cracks?
Costs vary based on crack size, material type, and whether you hire professionals.
DIY Crack Repair Costs
Small cracks are cheap to fix yourself.
A tube of crack filler costs around $5 to $15.
One tube fills 10 to 20 feet of hairline cracks.
For larger projects, buy filler by the bucket.
A gallon costs around $20 to $40 and covers 50 to 100 linear feet, depending on crack width.
Tools add minimal cost. You might need a wire brush up to ($5), a caulking gun of ($10), and a putty knife around ($5).
Total DIY cost for a typical driveway: $50 to $150.
Professional Repair Costs
Professional repair costs a bit more upfront, but saves time and ensures long-lasting results. Here’s a general estimate; however, keep in mind that actual prices can vary based on your location, driveway size, material, and the extent of damage.
- Small crack repair: $100–$300
- Medium damage (multiple cracks): $300–$600
- Extensive cracking (large area): $600–$1,500
- Full resurfacing (severe damage): $2,000–$5,000
Factors That Affect Cost
- Crack width and depth
- Total linear feet of cracking
- Driveway material (asphalt or concrete)
- Accessibility and slope
- Local labor rates
- Severity of underlying damage
Steep or difficult-to-reach driveways cost more because they need extensive preparation work increases the price. Also, emergency repairs cost extra compared to scheduled work.
Can I Repair My Concrete Driveway Myself?
Yes, most homeowners can handle basic crack repairs. The process isn’t complicated but requires attention to detail.
When DIY Makes Sense
Small to medium cracks are perfect DIY projects. If the crack is less than 1/2 inch wide, hairline cracks, and isolated damage, you can do it on your own without professional help.
Bring basic tools and materials that are readily available, read the instructions thoroughly, and fix it to prevent bigger problems. That will save some money, too.
When to Call Professionals
Extensive cracking across large areas suggests structural problems. This needs professional help. They can determine if repair or replacement is the better choice.
Deep cracks penetrating through the entire thickness indicate serious issues. Surface filling won’t solve the problem.
Alligator cracking means the base has failed. Professional removal and replacement is the only real fix.
At Promaster Maintenance Corp, we help property owners evaluate their driveways and choose between DIY repairs and professional service based on the specific damage.
Step-by-Step Crack Repair Process
Here is your step-by-step guide to repairing a crack on your own:
Step 1: Clean the Crack
Remove all loose material from inside the crack. Use a wire brush or an old screwdriver to dig out debris.
Blow out dust with compressed air or a leaf blower. The crack must be completely clean for filler to bond.
If vegetation is growing, pull it out and treat it with weed killer.
Let it dry completely before proceeding.
Step 2: Prepare the Surface
For deep cracks, partially fill with foam backer rod.
This prevents wasting filler and provides backing.
Concrete cracks may need widening.
Use a cold chisel to create a slight V-shape; this gives the filler more surface to grip.
The area should be dry because most fillers won’t bond to wet surfaces.
Step 3: Apply the Filler
Cut the applicator tip at an angle.
Start at one end and work toward the other.
Apply steady pressure to push filler deep into the crack.
Overfill slightly.
Aim for a slight mound above the surface.
Smooth it with a putty knife.
This creates a neat finish and removes excess material.
Step 4: Let It Cure
Follow product instructions for curing time.
Most fillers need 24 to 48 hours before you can drive on them.
Keep traffic off the area during curing.
Cover with cones or caution tape if necessary.
Avoid water exposure during curing.
Check weather forecasts and plan repairs for dry periods.
Step 5: Seal the Entire Driveway
Once cracks are repaired, seal the entire surface.
This protects repairs and prevents new cracks.
Use driveway sealer appropriate for your material.
Apply according to label directions.
Remember: Two thin coats work better than one thick coat.
Preventing Future Cracks
To prevent future cracks, you need to maintain your driveway properly. Keep heavy vehicles off residential driveways when possible. Also, create a slope for water runoff. Seal regularly, as mentioned above. This simple step prevents most damage.
Avoid using salt or harsh chemicals in winter. They break down asphalt and concrete. Use sand for traction instead. Trim nearby trees to control root growth. Roots can lift and crack driveways from beneath the surface.
Final Thoughts
Driveway cracks are inevitable but still manageable. Take immediate action to stop small problems from becoming expensive disasters.
Regular maintenance and prompt repairs keep driveways smooth and functional for decades. Whether you tackle the work yourself or hire professionals, addressing cracks early is always the smart choice.