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Reviewed by Tom Reilly — Senior Editorial Reviewer — Roofing, Carpentry & General Contracting

Who to call · Landscaper

Driveway weeds growing through cracks: call a landscaper — or fix it yourself

Weeds pushing through driveway cracks are more than an eyesore — their roots widen existing cracks and accelerate surface deterioration. Seeds settle into hairline fractures where moisture collects, and once roots establish, they pry concrete or asphalt apart. Pulling weeds by hand provides only temporary relief because fragments of root left behind regrow quickly. A landscaper can apply targeted herbicide, remove root systems, and recommend crack sealing or joint repair to prevent regrowth and protect the driveway surface from further damage.

Is this your problem?

Symptoms to look for

  1. 01

    Green weeds or grass visibly sprouting from driveway cracks or joints

  2. 02

    Cracks widening noticeably over a single growing season

  3. 03

    Dark staining or soil buildup along crack lines

  4. 04

    Small mounds of dirt pushed up through the driveway surface

  5. 05

    Weeds returning within weeks after hand-pulling

Who to call

Landscaper

A landscaper or hardscaper re-lays sunken pavers on a proper base, seals a whole driveway, and removes tree roots that keep lifting it.

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Fix it yourself

How to fix driveway weeds growing through cracks

Driveway weeds growing through cracks

easy 30–90 min

Tools: crack weeder or old screwdriver, stiff broom, kettle, caulking gun · Materials: polymeric sand (pavers), asphalt or concrete crack filler, salt or horticultural vinegar (spot use only)

Steps

  1. Pull or dig out the weeds with the roots using a crack weeder; do it after rain when the soil is soft.
  2. Pour boiling water along the crack to kill remaining roots and seeds; repeat a week later.
  3. Sweep the cracks clean and dry them.
  4. Concrete or asphalt: fill cracks with a flexible crack filler from a tube so seeds have nowhere to lodge.
  5. Pavers: sweep polymeric sand into the joints, tamp, and mist with water so it sets hard.

Stop and call a pro if

  • cracks are wider than 1 cm or the slabs are heaving — roots or frost are lifting the driveway
  • weeds are woody (tree seedlings) — the roots may be under the slab
  • you want to use herbicide near a lawn, a well, or a watercourse

What a pro does that you can't

A landscaper or hardscaper re-lays sunken pavers on a proper base, seals a whole driveway, and removes tree roots that keep lifting it.

DIY cost: $10–40 for filler or polymeric sand

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Who should I call for: Driveway weeds growing through cracks?

Call a licensed landscaper. Landscapers have the specialized training, tools, and insurance to diagnose driveway weeds growing through cracks safely and stand behind the fix. Most offer free quotes and can visit the same day or the next.

Can I fix this myself?

Often, yes: the guide above has 5 steps (easy, 30–90 min, $10–40 for filler or polymeric sand). Stop and call a landscaper if cracks are wider than 1 cm or the slabs are heaving — roots or frost are lifting the driveway.

How fast can a pro come out?

Most landscapers offer same-day or next-day visits for non-emergency issues. True emergencies (burst pipes, gas smell, no heat in winter) are typically handled within 1–4 hours.

How much does it cost to fix?

Costs vary by severity and your location. Submit a free quote request to get real pricing from local pros in your area.

What are the signs of: Driveway weeds growing through cracks?

Green weeds or grass visibly sprouting from driveway cracks or joints. Cracks widening noticeably over a single growing season. Dark staining or soil buildup along crack lines. Small mounds of dirt pushed up through the driveway surface. Weeds returning within weeks after hand-pulling.

Who to call

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