How to repair my concrete slab driveway.

Tammy Berry
by Tammy Berry
My driveway consist of several large concrete slabs. Some are bulging, others cracked. Single lady, limited budget. Any diy suggestions would be helpful

  5 answers
  • Ken Ken on Jan 07, 2018

    I've looked into various possibilities before replacing a back patio and front stairs. Both were done on the cheap by people who were likely not the top craftspeople in their field. Your driveway sounds as though it has some of the same issues.


    I have no doubt, after replacing them, that there was no other way. You can only do so much with paint and caulk. Sorry, but a DIY project for a single lady? Not this one.

  • Stephen Justin Stephen Justin on Jan 08, 2018

    Right, Ken. However, she does have an option to prevent further damage and in the process, maybe improve the looks. Cracks should definitely be sealed to prevent water (rain/runoff) from pentrating, especially if she's in the north where frost does the most damage. Aside from a 4" grinder with a diamond wheel, maybe a grout removing tool purchased from a big box could be used to enlarge/taper the cracks and then seal with a good concrete crack sealer.

    • William William on Jan 08, 2018

      Sorry, Stephen. Ken is right. Some of the slabs are bulging and heaving. Sealing any cracks is just a band aid that won't solve any of the problems. Replacing is the only option.

  • Russbow Russbow on Jan 08, 2018

    PLEASE WHAT is a good concrete crack sealer, I have tried several, with poor luck.

    • William William on Jan 08, 2018

      Home centers sell concrete crack fillers in caulk tubes. Color of concrete, stay flexible, seals from dirt and moisture.

  • William William on Jan 08, 2018

    Ken is right. Some of the slabs are bulging and heaving. Sealing any cracks is just a band aid that won't solve any of the problems. Replacing is the only option.

  • Stephen Justin Stephen Justin on Jan 08, 2018

    That's what I said, William. However, if she has not the financial wherewithal to accomplish the only true remedy, as we've all agreed, she nmay be able to nip it in the bud and prevent further heaving and cracking. I've got an asphalt driveway that sorely requires replacing, but every year in the dead of summer I'm out there sealing cracks so that when winter comes 'round, so there's no excess moisture in the grade. Someday, I'll be able to fork over the 5K to replace it. For now, I enjoy giving my neighbors a good laugh, as I toil in the blazing sun.