
The Ultimate Guide to Extending the Life of Your Concrete Driveway
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Your concrete driveway is one of the biggest investments that you’ll ever make in your home, and to make sure it stays in tip top shape, it’s going to need regular maintenance. Here are our top tips to help you keep your driveway looking great and even extend its life.
1. Clean Regularly
This might be obvious but over time there is going to be buildup of dirt, stains, and other debris. Just by sweeping it and hosing it down every so often you can get rid of these substances that can cause the surface to degrade over time. If you’ve got some tougher stains like oil or grease, you can also use a concrete cleaner or degreaser to get rid of those stubborn spots.
2. Seal the Surface
One of the best ways to protect your concrete is to get it sealed. This is going to keep chemicals, moisture, and normal wear and tear from ruining your driveway. We recommend going through every 2-3 years and spraying your concrete driveway with a high quality sealer to prevent cracking, spalling, or even surface deterioration. You can also look into getting a professional power washing company to come out. They will usually offer some sort of concrete sealing service.
3. Repair Cracks Immediately
Don’t let those small cracks turn into giant Grand Canyons running through your driveway. If you see small cracks start to show up you can fill them with a concrete crack filler or patching compound to keep any water from getting in and causing more damage. You’d be surprised how just keeping up with these small repairs can make a big impact down the road.
4. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals
Especially in the colder climates it might be tempting to use de-icers, but they can actually damage your concrete. You can always use an alternative like sand or other non-corrosive products rather than de-icers. Also, if you’ve gotten your concrete sealed, other harsh chemicals can actually strip it off, making your concrete lose its protective seal.
5. Control the Load
Typically a professional concrete company will install extra rebar or make your concrete driveway a few inches thicker to help with heavier loads.
Now concrete is insanely strong but it’s not indestructible. If you’ve got really big trucks, or RV’s, or heavy equipment, try not to leave them on your driveway for too long. These heavy loads can cause your concrete to crack and make other structural issues pop up.
6. Watch for Drainage Issues
Standing water can weaken concrete over time. Ensure that your driveway has proper drainage to prevent pooling, which could lead to cracks or water damage. If you notice water accumulating in certain areas, it might be time to adjust the slope or repair the surface.
Conclusion
With regular cleaning, sealing, and speedy repairs, you can keep your concrete driveway in excellent condition for years to come. These small maintenance steps not only enhance the appearance of your driveway but also extend its lifespan, saving you money on future repairs or replacements.