Here are six proven methods to reclaim your driveway, once and for all.
Weeds growing through driveway cracks aren’t just ugly they are a sign your driveway is quietly falling apart. Left unchecked, those tiny plants can expand cracks, invite pests, and make your home look neglected. The good news? You don’t need to be a landscaping pro or spend a fortune to fix it. With the right tools and a little consistency, you can clear those weeds out and keep them gone for good.
Weeds sprouting up through driveway cracks are more than just an eyesore, they can actually widen those cracks over time, leading to expensive repairs. Fortunately, you don’t have to live with that scraggly green mess forever.
1. Boiling Water: Fast, Free, and Chemical-Free
If you want a simple, no-cost solution, grab a kettle. Boiling water poured directly on the weeds kills them quickly by destroying their cell structure. It’s especially effective on young, shallow-rooted weeds. Just be careful not to splash it on nearby grass or plants you actually want to keep alive.
Best for small infestations, environmentally conscious homeowners
Watch out for steam burns. Make sure to not pour from high up
2. Vinegar and Salt Spray: A Homemade Weed Killer That Works
Mix white vinegar (at least 5% acetic acid), a tablespoon of dish soap, and a cup of salt into a spray bottle. The vinegar and salt dry out the weed, while the soap helps the solution stick. Spray directly into the crack on a sunny day. You’ll usually see results in a few hours.
Best for persistent weeds with shallow roots
Watch out for Over spraying because it can kill grass and flowers too
3. Manual Removal: Old-School but Satisfying
Sometimes the best tool is your hands (and maybe a screwdriver or weeding knife). Dig deep into the crack and pull out the entire weed, roots and all. For extra effectiveness, weed after a rain or watering session as it softens the soil and makes pulling easier.
Best for small driveways and spot treatments
Watch out for back pain and root fragments left behind
4. Flame Weeder: Burn Them Out (Safely)
Flame weeders are propane-powered tools that shoot a small, controlled flame to scorch weeds. The heat ruptures plant cells, causing the weed to die in a day or two. It’s oddly satisfying and very effective—but you need to be cautious.
Best for driveways with lots of space and few fire hazards
Watch out for fire risk. Avoid during dry, windy days
5. Commercial Weed Killers: For When You’re Over It
Sometimes you need to bring out the big guns. Glyphosate-based products or non-selective herbicides can eliminate even the toughest weeds. Just read the label carefully, apply on a windless day, and keep pets and kids off the area until it dries.
Best for heavily infested or neglected driveways
Watch out for residual chemicals and environmental concerns
6. Seal the Cracks: Long-Term Weed Prevention
Once the weeds are gone, don’t stop there. Seal the cracks to prevent future growth. Use a quality crack filler or sealant made for driveways. This not only blocks sunlight and moisture from reaching weed seeds but also extends the life of your driveway.
Best for preventing future growth and improving curb appeal
Watch out for poor prep. Make sure to clean and dry cracks before sealing
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to weed control in driveway cracks. You might need a combination of methods to get the job done. Whether you go natural or chemical, proactive or preventative, the key is consistency. The longer you wait, the more the weeds win and they will come back if you ignore them. So choose your method, clear the cracks, and take back your driveway.
