How to Fix Driveway Cracks on Asphalt and Concrete

Cracks in your driveway do more than hurt your curb appeal—they’re a warning sign. Before grabbing a filler or sealer, take the time to inspect the surface thoroughly. This should be more than a quick glance. You need to understand the type of damage you’re dealing with.

Start by noting the size and pattern of the cracks. Hairline fractures are likely surface-level damage and easy to fix. Wider, deeper cracks could signal a bigger issue. If you spot alligator cracking (a web of interconnected lines) or areas where the pavement is crumbling, you may be dealing with structural failure. Also, check for uneven sections or pooling water—both could indicate foundation trouble.

Measure the cracks so you know what materials you’ll need, and be honest about whether it’s a DIY job or one for the professionals. Repairing your driveway will almost always be the most cost-effective option. Asphalt repairs typically cost between $1,072 and $4,011, while concrete repairs average $1,789. But if the damage is widespread—deep cracks, major sinking, or repeated failure—extensive repairs may not be enough. In that case, repaving or replacing your driveway, which costs anywhere from $1,400 to $12,100, might be the smarter long-term investment.

Just remember—a careful inspection now can save you from pouring time and money into a patch job that won’t last.

Before any repair material touches your driveway, the surface needs to be spotless—or as clean as you can possibly get it. Dirt, debris, and loose material will prevent fillers from bonding properly, causing cracks to reappear sooner than you’d like. Here’s how to clean your driveway the right way.

Remove Weeds and Grass

If grass or weeds have started living in the cracks, they need to go—roots and all. Grab a pair of gloves and pull them out by hand, if you can. If not, use a trowel or garden knife to pry them out. For stubborn weeds, a weed killer can help (just follow the instructions and avoid getting it on surrounding plants). Getting rid of the roots now stops them from pushing through again later.

Remove Loose Concrete or Asphalt

Crumbling edges or loose chunks will only get in the way of a solid repair. Use a putty knife or chisel to scrape out any weak material from the cracks. The goal is a stable, clean surface. If it crumbles when you touch it, remove it.

Sweep Away Dirt and Debris

Give the entire driveway a once-over with a stiff-bristled broom to clear away dirt, leaves, or any other debris. Collect everything with a dustpan so nothing gets blown back.

Wash the Driveway

• For a basic clean: Attach a spray nozzle to a garden hose, soak the surface, and scrub problem areas with soapy water—dish soap works fine—and a stiff brush. Rinse by starting at the highest point of the driveway and working your way down, letting gravity help wash away the dirty water. Make sure no soap residue is left behind.

• For a deeper clean: If you have a large driveway or serious dirt buildup, renting a pressure washer (around $90/day) can save time. Stick to a low-pressure setting and a wide spray pattern to avoid damaging the surface. Always wear safety glasses and sturdy footwear when using one.

Let the driveway dry completely before moving on.

Now that your driveway is clean and prepped, it’s time to fill those cracks. The method and materials you use depend on whether you have a concrete or asphalt driveway—and, of course, how wide the cracks are.

Concrete

Narrow Cracks (Up to ¼-inch Wide)

For those tiny, hairline cracks, a liquid concrete crack filler or self-leveling sealant is the way to go. These fillers are very “liquidy” and designed to seep into small gaps and create a strong bond.

Use the applicator tip or a squeeze bottle to apply the filler directly into the crack. Let the filler self-level and cure according to the product instructions.

Medium Cracks (Up to ½-inch Wide)

For slightly wider cracks, you’ll want to add a backer rod before filling with concrete crack filler. Insert a foam backer rod into the crack. It should be slightly larger than the crack width. Leave a small gap (about ¼-inch) at the top, and fill that remaining space with concrete crack filler. Smooth the surface with a putty knife and let it cure. 

Wide Cracks (½-inch Wide or Larger)

Cracks this big often point to deeper structural issues, like poor drainage or foundation problems. Don’t attempt a DIY fix. Instead, call a contractor to assess and address the root cause.

Asphalt

Small Cracks (Up to ¾-inch Wide)

For these, an asphalt crack filler (either pourable or in a tube) works best. Apply the filler with a caulk gun (if you’re using a tubed product) or pour the filler directly into the crack. Smooth the surface with a putty knife or trowel. Let it cure.

Large Cracks (Wider than ¾-inch)

For larger cracks, use a cold patch asphalt product. Pour the cold patch product into the crack and overfill slightly. Use a steel tamper to compact the patch. Smooth the surface with a trowel. 

Let your repair cure completely before driving or walking on it.

Once your crack filler is cured, it’s time to seal the deal—literally. Sealing your driveway protects the surface from weather, UV damage, and moisture that can cause further wear. You should seal your asphalt driveway every two years or annually if you’re in a harsh climate. Concrete driveways need less frequent sealing, usually every five years, to avoid trapping moisture. Just make sure the filler is completely set before applying the sealant.