The Driveway Task You Need To Get Done Before Winter

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Your driveway plays an important role in your home's exterior, as it can instantly enhance your property's look and even boost its value. But this isn't something that just magically happens. To keep your driveway looking its best, prolong its lifespan, and prevent damage to it, you need to properly and regularly care for it. Aside from occasional cleanups and avoiding large amounts of weight being on your driveway for long periods, there are also some seasonal chores to keep in mind, like preparing your driveway for winter. And among the many ways to protect the structure through the season, one of the most important tasks you need to get done before cold weather rolls around is to seal any existing cracks in your driveway.

The low temperatures and moisture brought on by the winter weather could wreak havoc on your driveway. As water gets into the cracks, it freezes and expands inside, forcing even more separation and potentially exacerbating the damage. After performing prep steps like cleaning the surface (another essential task that can help prevent a driveway from cracking), sealing any current gaps should be a top priority for many homeowners in the months leading up to winter.

To repair concrete cracks in your driveway, start by examining the whole surface for any damage. Once you've identified problem areas, take some time to thoroughly clean out any dirt, loose concrete, moss, or weeds inside that could interfere with the process of filling the cracks in. Use a screwdriver and stiff brush to dislodge loose debris, and use a leaf blower or air compressor to blow it right out.

When you've prepped the area for treatment, grab some SIKA SikaFlex Self-Leveling Sealant or other high-quality concrete caulk, an affordable tool that can fill cracks in your driveway. Use a caulking gun to apply the caulk into the cracks, and don't be shy with the amount. It's better to overfill the cracks than leave space for water to come inside and further damage your driveway (you'll smooth the caulk out at the end anyway). For cracks wider than ½ inch, put a backer rod to fit snugly in the gap before applying the caulk. When all the cracks are sealed, let them sit for 12 to 48 hours to let everything cure. During this time, make sure not to drive or walk over your driveway, as this may ruin the finish.

Once the cracks are taken care of, top it all off by coating your whole driveway with a protective sealant. As it blocks water, chemicals, and abrasive substances from seeping under the surface, the sealant will help make sure your driveway is fully out of reach of any negative effects from winter weather. Just remember that the sealant can't cure properly if the temperature is too low, though, so make sure to take care of your maintenance tasks well before the seasons change.