Nothing in the world is built to last. The milk purchased at the grocery store has an expiration date; the medicine in your cabinet the same. Sadly, areas of our house are no exception. From kitchen faucets to paved driveways, your local hardware store in New Hampshire can quickly become what seems your second home.
With summer drawing to an end and winter on the way, the next few months present the last times of the year to fix cracks in your driveway. As tempting as is may be to wait until next spring, the winter elements will make matters worse. If you’re not concerned with deeper, wider driveway cracks, then go ahead and wait. Otherwise, we’re providing you all you need to roll up those sleeves and get to work!
All good jobs start with a little preparation
- To begin, a quick trip to your local hardware store in New Hampshire, ACE Hardware will provide you with all of the tools you may not have. You’ll need:
- wire brush
- hose and nozzle
- utility knife
- asphalt crack sealer
- safety goggles
- Next, it’s time to get to work. Start by cleaning the cracked area, so the sealer has an easier time adhering. This step involves removing dirt, weeds, and bits of loose asphalt with the wire brush.
- Once any debris is removed, use the hose to clear out anything your wire brush may have missed. For a better clean, try an air compressor if one is available.
Smaller Cracks
- Small cracks range in size from about ⅛ of an inch to ½ an inch.
- When filling smaller cracks, it’s best to use a rubberized asphalt sealer.
- The best method for applying the sealer is using a caulking gun.
- Once filled, let the sealer dry according to the instructions before driving or walking on the surface.
Larger Cracks
- Larger cracks constitute any crack over a ½ an inch. For cracks over two inches, consider using small, crushed gravel to fill up to the two-inch line first.
- Be sure to compact the gravel well if you choose to use it.
- This type of crack requires a cold process asphalt repair compound. For more information, check out this article by hunker on how to get cold patch asphalt to harden.
- Next, apply the compound to the crack. Stop to compress the mixture for a sturdier foundation.
- Repeat this process until the crack is adequately filled.
Don’t let your driveway cracks get worse over the winter months. Visit your local hardware store in New Hampshire today for all of the tools and supplies you’ll need. At Aubin Ace Hardware, we’re here to help with all of your home projects. Visit us today and look forward to a relaxing spring!
