Asphalt, or blacktop driveways are great as long as you take the time to repair and maintain them. Cracks and holes should be filled as soon as possible. If they aren't, water can get into and beneath the driveway, where freeze/thaw cycles can produce even bigger damage. If you are trying to decide on what type of surface to use on your driveway and prefer to avoid some of these maintenance issues, save yourself some money with a gravel driveway (see Pros and Cons of a Gravel Driveway for more information).

Blacktop repair is an easy DIY project, provided the patch is relatively small. For major potholes, however, the problem may be more serious, and you should first consult a professional. Below you will find instructions on filling the most common sizes of crack and holes in a blacktop driveway.

Choose the Right Blacktop Repair Product

A variety of products are available for repairing blacktop cracks and holes. All can be used straight from the container (no mixing necessary), but it is important to choose the right product for the size of crack or hole you are filling.

• For cracks up to 1/2-in. wide, use a blacktop crack filler product, which you can find in pourable plastic containers or tubes that can be applied using a caulk gun.
• For cracks between 1/2-in. and 1-in. wide, use a mastic crack filler that is applied with a trowel or putty knife.
• For cracks or holes larger than 1 in., use a cold-patch repair product, which is sold in bags of 40 or 50 pounds.

Protect Yourself

Wear eye protection and gloves when working with blacktop repair products.

Avoid getting any of the patch product on your hands or clothing.

Prepare the Crack

Blacktop repair products work best when the crack or hole is clean and dry. If rain is in the forecast, wait on the repair until the forecast improves. Sweep with a broom or use a shop vacuum to remove any dust and debris from the crack. Use a cold chisel or other tool to straighten the sides of the crack or hole. The sides should be vertical.

Fill the Crack

The following instructions apply to most blacktop repair products, but be sure to read the instructions on our package for any additional tips. Fill the crack or hole with your repair product. For narrow cracks, smooth the patch with a trowel or putty knife.
For larger cracks and holes, overfill the patch by about 1/2 in. Compact the material with a tamper or the end of a 4x4 post. Alternatively, cover the patch with a piece of plywood and drive the wheels of your car or truck over the surface a few times. Remove the plywood to allow the patch to cure.

Let the Patch Cure

Let the patch cure for two to three days before allowing any traffic on it. Wait another few days before turning any car wheels directly over the patch. Allow the patch to dry for at least a month, and preferably up to three months, before applying any driveway sealer.