Concrete Crack Repair: How to Fix Sidewalks & Driveways

It’s that time of year: the snow’s gone, the hose is out… and your driveway is showing signs it needs concrete crack repair.

The good news? Most small cracks are easy to fix—and this DIY-friendly guide walks you through the tools, fillers, and best practices to do it right.

What Causes Concrete Cracks?

Freeze/thaw cycles — moisture expands and contracts
Poor drainage — water pools under the slab
Shifting soil or tree roots
Time and traffic — it just happens

Cracks that are under ½” wide and not actively lifting are prime DIY candidates for concrete crack repair.

🔨 Step-by-Step Concrete Crack Repair (DIY-Friendly)

Step 1: Clean the Crack

Start by removing dirt, debris, and any loose concrete.

You’ll need:

Wire brush or stiff broom
Shop vac or leaf blower
Optional: pressure washer for deep prep

We like the Wire Brush Set and RIDGID 12 Gal Shop Vac for driveway cleanup.

Step 2: Widen & Shape (If Needed)

For narrow hairline cracks, use a cold chisel and hammer to open up the crack slightly. This helps the filler bond better.

Pro tip: aim for a shape that’s wider at the bottom than the top (called an “inverted V”).

Step 3: Apply Crack Filler or Patch

There are two main types:

🧴 Liquid Crack Filler (For ¼” or smaller)

Comes in squeeze bottles or cartridges
Self-leveling, flexible, great for hairlines

We use Sikaflex Self-Leveling Sealant for fine cracks—it flows easy and bonds strong.

🧱 Concrete Patch Compound (For wider or deeper cracks)

Mix with water or buy pre-mixed
Use a trowel to smooth and feather
Good for larger driveway or patio cracks

Dap Ready-Mix Concrete Patch and Quikrete Vinyl Concrete Patch are solid go-tos.

Step 4: Tool It Smooth + Let It Cure

Smooth the filler with a putty knife or margin trowel. Follow the manufacturer’s dry time—usually 2–8 hours before foot traffic, 24+ hours for vehicles.

Step 5: (Optional) Seal the Area

If you want extra protection, use a concrete sealer after the patch has cured. This helps keep water out and prevents future cracking.

We recommend Foundation Armor AR350 Sealer—it’s clear, easy to apply, and enhances color too.

🧰 Recommended Tools + Supplies

❌ What to Avoid

Latex caulk – not flexible enough
Unprepped cracks – filler won’t bond
Filling without cleaning – debris weakens the repair
Ignoring trip hazards – raised cracks = bigger safety issue

✅ Final Tips

Don’t patch in direct sun—shade the area if needed
Wear gloves—sealant gets sticky fast
For major cracks or shifting slabs, bring in a pro

With the right tools and materials, you can knock out concrete crack repair in a single afternoon. It’s one of the easiest ways to preserve your curb appeal—and avoid bigger fixes down the line.