The video discusses how to address a common issue in homes where vegetation grows through expansion joints in driveways, sidewalks, and other areas. The solution involves a two-step process: a temporary solution and a permanent solution.
Temporary Solution:
1. Clean the expansion joint by digging out grass and weeds, or using a string trimmer and a garden hose to remove dirt and debris.
2. Sprinkle Preen, a weed preventer, into the cleaned expansion joint to prevent vegetation growth for about six months.
Permanent Solution:
1. Seal the expansion joint using a backer rod, which is pressed into the gap to create a tight seal.
2. Apply a self-leveling sealant, such as Sika or Tremco Vulcan 45 SSL, to the backer rod.
3. Sprinkle sand on top of the sealant to blend it with the surrounding surface.
The video demonstrates the process and provides tips for achieving a successful outcome, including using the right materials and techniques to ensure a tight seal and a smooth finish.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The narrator is addressing a common issue with expansion joints in driveways and sidewalks.
2. Weeds and grass often grow in the cracks of expansion joints.
3. To solve the issue, the narrator uses a temporary solution involving Preen and a permanent solution involving backer rod and sealant.
4. The narrator uses a garden hose to clean out the expansion joints.
5. The narrator uses Preen as a temporary solution to prevent weeds from growing in the expansion joints.
6. Preen is a product that can be found on Amazon.
7. The permanent solution involves sealing the expansion joints with backer rod and sealant.
8. The narrator uses a Carpenter's pencil to measure the gap in the expansion joint.
9. The narrator uses 5/8 inch backer rod for gaps that are mostly 1/2 inch wide.
10. The narrator presses the backer rod into the gap, making sure it's tight and about 1/4 inch below the concrete surface.
11. The narrator uses Sika self-leveling sealant for horizontal surfaces and Tremco Vulcan 45 SSL for sloped surfaces.
12. The narrator applies the sealant and then sprinkles sand on top to blend it in with the surrounding concrete.
13. The narrator recommends applying the sealant in temperatures below 80°F (27°C) to avoid bubbling and uneven finishes.
14. The finished product shows a seamless blend of the sealant with the surrounding concrete.