Home Garden

How to Seal Gaps Around a Foundation & Driveway

Gaps around a home or between the driveway and garage can lead to leaks and cracks in the home's foundation. Sealing gaps is not a complicated project, but it should be done promptly to prevent the damage from spreading. Expansion joints block moisture from seeping through. They also allow the concrete to expand and contract, preventing cracks caused by freezing temperatures.

Things You'll Need

  • Stiff brush
  • Vacuum
  • Foam or cork backer rod
  • Permanent marker
  • Tape measure
  • Hammer
  • Concrete joint sealer
  • Caulk gun
  • Gloves
  • Trowel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Brush out the gaps with a stiff brush and vacuum out any dirt and debris to ensure the gaps are dry and clean.

    • 2

      Lay foam or cork backer rod over the length of the gaps and mark the length of the gap on the backer rod with a permanent marker. Double check your measurement with a tape measure. Use a utility knife to cut lengths of backer rod to fit each gap.

    • 3

      Press the foam or cork into each gap with your hands or the back end of a hammer. Once in place, it should be about 1/8 inch from the surface of the concrete.

    • 4

      Load a tube of concrete joint sealer into a caulk gun. Squeeze the sealer over the foam or cork expansion joint and spread the material smooth with a trowel or gloved finger.

    • 5

      Position the end of the caulk gun over gaps that are too small to fill with foam or cork. Squeeze a line of sealer over each gap and smooth it down with a gloved finger. Wait for the sealer to dry for a day and add a second coat to ensure water will not be able to seep through.