For depressions, thin cracks, and alligator cracks (cracks in a scaled pattern), repair them yourself as described below. If the damage covers large areas of the driveway, or if there are long cracks more than ¼" (6mm) wide, the only permanent solution is to hire a contractor to remove and replace the driveway. Also consider this for any asphalt driveway approaching 20 years old. [1] X Research source Hiring a contractor to overlay the driveway with more blacktop is cheaper then replacement, but it is not recommended for driveways with drainage problems, or with large areas of alligator cracks.
If grass or weeds are growing in cracks in the driveway, scrape them out with a screwdriver, then sweep the cracks with a whisk broom.
Avoid using solvent-based cleaners. They will leave unseen residue behind, which will have an adverse effect on the blacktop’s adhesion.
Clean away any dust and broken asphalt created by this process.
It’s not a problem if the material spills over onto the surrounding surface.
For a large area, you can oil a piece of plywood to prevent sticking, then place it oiled side down over the patch. Drive over the plywood to compact the material underneath. [7] X Research source
Wait at least 4 hours for the patch to cure, or as directed on the label instructions. [9] X Research source Wait until the weather is at least 60ºF (16ºC), the driveway is dry, and you don’t expect rain. If the sealer gets wet before it cures, some of the patching material may be washed away. [10] X Research source
Shake the bottle to mix the product evenly. Cut off the top of the nozzle so the opening is narrower than the crack. (If there is no nozzle, load the product into an asphalt caulk gun instead. ) Squeeze the filler directly into the crack until it is flush with the driveway. Let dry for 24 hours. If the filler has sunk below the driveway surface level, apply an additional coat. Wait at least 24 hours after the final coat before walking or driving over the repair.
If the alligator cracks are severe, chunks of the asphalt may be fully separated from the driveway. You may achieve a stronger repair if you remove these entirely, then refill the hole using the pothole method above.
Check the label instructions first. Some products may need to be mixed in a bucket before application.
For a more even transition, squeegee out a thin layer one or two feet (0. 3 to 0. 6m) in each direction.
