One of the best attributes of a decorative concrete driveway is how little maintenance and routine care it will need over its lifetime. But no driveway paving material—including concrete—is truly maintenance-free. There are a lot of residential concrete services that want to preserve the life and appearance of your investment.
A concrete driveway is a great investment if you keep it in good shape. Factors such as weather, staining, cracks, and other damage can all make your driveway look worn and beaten long before it should be time for a replacement.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do in order to prolong the life of your concrete driveway. Here are the 5 things our concrete contractors recommend you do in order to keep your driveway in top condition.
Maintaining Your Driveway
1. Treat cracks right away.
When you first notice a crack in your concrete driveway, it’s important to repair it right away. Cracks allow water to seep into your driveway, where it can either expand due to freezing or wear away at the concrete or the ground underneath.
You can usually patch minor cracks in your driveway using a DIY kit, but more substantial cracks will require the work of a professional. Our concrete contractors are happy to come out and repair your concrete driveway before the cracks worsen. Give us a call today for a free estimate.
2. Re-seal regularly.
Sealing your driveway helps keep water out, which can prevent cracks and other damage in the long run. It also protects your driveway’s surface from the elements so it looks nicer and longer. In general, you’ll want to re-seal your concrete driveway every two years or so.
3. Keep it clean.
While functionality is the most important factor for a driveway to have, appearance also matters. Concrete can become stained if you let substances sit for too long on its surface. Try to avoid changing your oil on your concrete driveway to minimize the possibility of spillage. If you notice a spill or dirt on your driveway, try to remove it as quickly as possible so it doesn’t have time to stain.
4. Avoid chemicals.
Chemicals such as antifreeze, motor oil, or deicing fluid can all soften and damage your concrete over time. Even the salt you use to melt ice in the wintertime contains harmful compounds that can damage your concrete driveway. Try to avoid working on messy car projects in your driveway, and instead of using salt, try putting down sand to combat icy patches in the wintertime.
5. Steer clear of damage.
While concrete is a sturdy material, for the most part, there’s only so much wear and tear it can take before becoming damaged. Avoid parking heavy trucks or equipment on your driveway, as these can cause it to crack. The edges of your concrete driveway are the most fragile part, so try not to drive on the edges if you can avoid it. Keep your vehicles in the middle of the driveway to preserve them for as long as possible.
Driveways are one of the most used areas of your house, often overlooked until they stain or crack. Give them the attention they deserve by making repairs quickly. Not only can you extend your driveway’s life and attractive look well into the future, but you can also save money in the long term.
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