If you have identified that your driveway's expansion joints need sealing, the next question is whether to tackle it yourself or hire a professional. Both options have their place, and the right choice depends on your situation. In this guide, we lay out the honest pros and cons of each approach so you can decide what makes sense for your property.
The DIY Approach
Sealing expansion joints yourself is possible, and some handy homeowners do it successfully. Here is what the process involves and what you should know before you start.
Materials You Will Need
- Caulk gun (ideally a heavy-duty model for thick silicone)
- Silicone sealant rated for outdoor and concrete use
- Backer rod (closed-cell foam rope) sized to your joint width
- Flathead screwdriver or pry bar for removing old material
- Wire brush or shop vacuum for cleaning joints
- Masking tape for clean lines (optional but recommended)
DIY Cost Estimate
For a typical two-car driveway with about 100 to 150 linear feet of joints, DIY materials typically run $150 to $400. This includes silicone (several tubes or a bulk pail), backer rod, and basic tools if you do not already own them.
DIY Challenges
While the concept is simple, execution has some common pitfalls:
- Old material removal — Rotted plywood can be stubborn to extract, especially when packed with dirt and debris. This is the most labor-intensive part of the job and can take several hours.
- Proper depth — Silicone needs to bond to the sides of the joint, not the bottom. Getting the backer rod at the correct depth is critical for a seal that flexes properly. Too deep or too shallow and the seal will fail prematurely.
- Clean application — Applying silicone smoothly and consistently across dozens of feet of joints requires practice. Uneven application looks messy and can leave thin spots that compromise the seal.
- Material quality — Consumer-grade silicone from the hardware store is not the same as commercial-grade sealant. Lower-quality silicone may crack, yellow, or lose adhesion within a few years.
- Time investment — Plan on a full day or weekend, especially if you have not done this before. The job is physically demanding, involving a lot of time on your hands and knees.
The Professional Approach
Hiring a professional expansion joint sealing company means the work is done with commercial equipment, professional-grade materials, and experienced technique. Here is what you get.
What a Professional Service Includes
- Free estimate — A professional will measure your joints and provide a detailed quote before any work begins.
- Complete material removal — Professionals have the tools and experience to remove old plywood, foam, and debris quickly and thoroughly.
- Proper backer rod installation — Correct depth and fit for optimal silicone performance.
- Commercial-grade silicone — Professional sealants are formulated for maximum durability, flexibility, and UV resistance. These products are often not available at retail stores.
- Clean, uniform finish — Experienced installers deliver a consistent, professional-looking result.
- Speed — Most residential driveways are completed in half a day.
Professional Cost
At Seal My Joints, professional sealing starts at $999, averaging about $10 per linear foot. Yes, it costs more than DIY — but you are paying for superior materials, expert installation, and a result that lasts 10 to 20 years.
When DIY Makes Sense
DIY can be a reasonable choice if you have a very small area to seal (such as a short sidewalk section), you are comfortable with hands-on projects, and you are willing to invest time in doing it correctly. For small touch-up jobs, a tube of quality silicone and some backer rod can get the job done.
When to Hire a Professional
For full driveways, patios, or any project with significant linear footage, professional installation is almost always the better value. The time savings alone are substantial, and the quality of materials and application means the seal will last years longer than a typical DIY job.
Professional installation also makes sense if your joints are in poor condition — badly rotted plywood, packed debris, or wide gaps that require careful preparation. These situations are where experience and the right tools make the biggest difference.
What About Concrete Damage?
If your failed joints have already caused concrete damage — cracks, sinking, or uneven slabs — you will need more than just joint sealing. Our sister company Hill Country Slabs handles concrete leveling throughout Central Texas. They can restore your slabs, and then we seal the joints to prevent future problems.
Get a Free Quote
Not sure which route to take? We are happy to come out, assess your joints, and give you an honest recommendation — no pressure, no obligation. Request your free estimate online or call (737) 287-4308. We serve Austin, San Antonio, and all of Central Texas.