Weeds, Whacked: The 7 Best Ways to Kill Weeds From Driveway and Sidewalks

Weeds sprouting through the cracks in your driveway or sidewalk aren't just an eyesore — they can eventually widen cracks, trap moisture and make your home's exterior look neglected. The good news is that you don't always need harsh chemical herbicides to get rid of them. Depending on the type of weeds you're dealing with and how quickly you want results, several DIY methods can help.

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From pouring boiling water over unwanted plants to using household vinegar or even a propane weed torch, each method has its own advantages and drawbacks. Here's a look at some of the most effective ways to kill weeds growing in pavement cracks, along with the tools you'll need and step-by-step instructions.

1. Kill Weeds Instantly With Boiling Water

One of the simplest and most environmentally friendly methods is using boiling water. The intense heat destroys the plant's cell structure, causing it to wilt and die.

Best For:

• Small patches of weeds

• Newly sprouted weeds

• Areas near pets or children

Tools and Materials

• Large pot or kettle

• Water

• Heat-resistant gloves

• Closed-toe shoes

Step-by-Step Guide

1 . Fill a kettle or pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.

2. Carefully carry the hot water to the affected area.

3. Slowly pour the boiling water directly onto the weeds, making sure to soak the leaves and roots as much as possible.

4. Allow the weeds to wilt over the next 24 to 48 hours.

5. Pull out the dead weeds by hand or use a weeding tool if needed.

6. Repeat the process for stubborn or deep-rooted weeds.

Pros

• Chemical-free

• Inexpensive

• Safe for the environment

• Readily available

• Easy to apply

• No mixing required

• Labor intensive

• Difficult for deep roots

Cons

• May require multiple applications

• Can damage nearby desirable plants

2. DIY Vinegar Weed Killer Recipe

Household vinegar contains acetic acid, which dries out weeds. It's most effective on young weeds during hot, sunny weather.

Best For:

• Annual weeds

• Small infestations

• Sunny conditions

• Driveway cracks

• Sidewalk joints

• Areas where no vegetation is desired

Tools and Materials

• White vinegar (5% acidity)

• Spray bottle

• Protective gloves

• Safety glasses

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Pour white vinegar into a clean spray bottle.

2. Choose a dry, sunny day with no rain in the forecast.

3. Spray the leaves until they're completely coated.

4. Avoid spraying nearby grass or ornamental plants.

5. Wait one to three days for the weeds to brown and die.

6. Remove dead vegetation from the cracks.

Pros

• Chemical-free

• Inexpensive

• Safe for the environment

• Readily available

• Easy to apply

• No mixing required

Cons

• Doesn't always kill deep roots

• Can harm surrounding vegetation

3. Salt Water Weed Killer

Salt dehydrates weeds and makes it difficult for them to grow again. However, use it sparingly because it can also prevent nearby plants from growing.

Best For:

• Annual weeds

• Small infestations

• Sunny conditions

• Driveway cracks

• Sidewalk joints

• Areas where no vegetation is desired

Tools and Materials

• Table salt or rock salt

• Water

• Measuring cup

• Small container or watering can

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sprinkle a small amount of salt directly into the crack around the weed.

2. Lightly water the area to help dissolve the salt.

3. Wait several days for the weed to dry out.

4. Pull the dead weed from the crack.

5. Reapply only if necessary.

Pros

• Long-lasting

• Very inexpensive

Cons

• Can sterilize surrounding soil

• May wash into nearby landscaping

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4. Burn Weeds With a Torch

A weed torch uses intense heat to rupture plant cells. Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to burn the weed to ashes—brief exposure to heat is usually enough.

Best For:

• Large driveways

• Gravel areas

• Frequent weed problems

Tools and Materials

• Propane weed torch

• Propane tank

• Long pants

• Leather gloves

• Safety glasses

• Fire extinguisher

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Read and follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.

2. Choose a calm day with no dry vegetation nearby.

3. Ignite the torch.

4. Slowly pass the flame over each weed for one or two seconds.

5. Avoid lingering in one spot.

6. Allow the weeds to wilt over the next day or two.

7. Remove dead weeds once they've dried.

Pros

• Fast

• Effective on repeated growth

• No chemicals

Cons

• Fire hazard

• Not suitable during drought conditions

• Requires careful operation

5. Pull Weeds by Hand

Sometimes the oldest method is still one of the most effective—especially when weeds are small.

Best For:

• Individual weeds

• Recently sprouted growth

• Preventing seed spread

Tools and Materials

• Gardening gloves

• Crack weeder or dandelion puller

• Bucket

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Water the area if the soil beneath the crack is dry.

2. Grip the weed close to the base.

3. Pull slowly to remove as much of the root as possible.

4. Use a crack weeder for stubborn roots.

5. Dispose of weeds before they go to seed.

Pros

• Immediate results

• No chemicals

• Very inexpensive

Cons

• Labor intensive

• Difficult for deep roots

6. Pour Baking Soda Into Cracks to Control Weeds in Driveways

Baking soda contains sodium, which can dry out weeds growing in pavement cracks.

Best For:

• Sidewalk joints

• Patio pavers

• Driveway cracks

Tools and Materials

• Baking soda

• Small scoop

• Broom

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sweep debris away from the cracks.

2. Sprinkle baking soda directly over the weeds.

3. Use a broom to work the powder into the cracks.

4. Leave it undisturbed for several days.

5. Repeat if necessary.

Pros

• Easy to use

• Household product

• Works well in narrow cracks

Cons

• May require multiple applications

• Can affect nearby soil

7. The Strongest Method: Use a Commercial Weed Killer

For large infestations or stubborn perennial weeds, a commercial herbicide may be the most effective option.

Best For:

• Established weeds

• Large driveways

• Persistent regrowth

Tools and Materials

• Herbicide labeled for pavement weeds

• Pump sprayer or trigger sprayer

• Gloves

• Safety glasses

• Long sleeves

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Read the product label completely.

2. Apply during calm, dry weather.

3. Spray only the target weeds.

4. Keep children and pets away until the product has dried or as directed.

5. Wait for the recommended treatment period.

6. Remove dead weeds if desired.

Pros

• Effective on deep-rooted weeds

• Long-lasting results

• Less manual labor

Cons

• Chemical exposure

• Must follow label directions carefully

Tips to Prevent Weeds

Getting rid of weeds is only half the battle. Preventing new growth can save you time and effort year-round.

Here are a few ways to discourage weeds from returning:

• Sweep dirt and organic debris from cracks regularly.

• Fill cracks with a concrete crack filler or polymeric sand to eliminate spaces where weed seeds can settle.

• Pull weeds while they're still young before they produce seeds.

• Inspect your driveway and sidewalks every few weeks during the growing season.

• Trim nearby grass and landscaping to reduce seed spread.

When to Repair Cracks Instead of Just Removing Weeds

If weeds keep coming back in the same locations, the problem may be the pavement itself. Cracks allow moisture, soil and weed seeds to collect, creating the perfect environment for unwanted growth.

Sealing or repairing cracks after removing weeds can help extend the life of your driveway or sidewalk while reducing future maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Vinegar Permanently Kill Weeds?

Usually not. Household vinegar often kills the leaves but may not destroy the roots of established perennial weeds. Multiple treatments may be necessary.

Is Boiling Water Safe For Concrete?

Yes. Boiling water won't damage properly installed concrete or pavers when used occasionally, but avoid splashing nearby ornamental plants.

What's the Fastest Way to Kill Driveway Weeds?

A propane weed torch or boiling water can produce visible results within a day or two. Commercial herbicides may also work quickly, depending on the product.

Can I Mix Vinegar, Salt and Dish Soap?

Some DIY recipes combine these ingredients, but salt can remain in the soil and prevent future plant growth, while dish soap mainly helps the solution stick to leaves. Use caution to avoid harming nearby landscaping.