4 Essential Tips For Maintaining Your Concrete Driveway
Concrete driveways are a preferred choice for many homeowners due to their durability and resilience. Yet, if not properly looked after, they can suffer from wear such as cracking, fading and other forms of damage. Overlooking the upkeep of your concrete driveway will undoubtedly lead to expensive repairs.
To ensure your concrete driveway remains in good condition for years to come, it's crucial to care for it correctly. Below are four essential tips for maintaining your concrete driveway.
Apply a Sealant
Concrete's robustness makes it an excellent material for driveways, but water penetration can be its downfall. When water seeps into concrete and then freezes during colder temperatures, it can cause expansion, leading to the formation and widening of cracks.
To effectively seal your driveway, begin with a power wash to eliminate dirt, moss, and other residues. These can hinder the sealant's ability to bond with the concrete. Allow the driveway to dry fully before you apply the sealant.
Has your concrete been sealed previously? Ensure the sealer you select is compatible with the existing product. Remember: solvent-based sealers may be applied over water-based sealers, but not vice versa.
Film-Forming Sealer: Solvent-based, acrylic sealer. Available in high-gloss and low-gloss options, often referred to as “wet-look sealer”. Recommended for stamped concrete, exposed aggregate and brushed concrete that is dated or has been previously sealed with an unknown product. Lasts 2-3 years.
Penetrating Sealer: Water-based blend of Silane & Siloxane. A natural finish sealer recommended for freshly placed, brushed concrete. Lasts 5-10 years.
Practice Considerate Snow and Ice Removal
During our Canadian Winters, removing snow and ice from your driveway is essential. However, common methods like snow plows and rock salt can harm your concrete driveway.
Opt for a snow blower for snow removal, taking care not to scrape the concrete surface. For compact snow or ice, use a plastic shovel instead of metal to prevent scratches or damage to the driveway.
Avoid using salt or chemical de-icers as they can deteriorate concrete, especially in its first winter. Instead, use sand or cat litter for traction without damaging your driveway.
Wise Parking Practices
Even though concrete is tough, it's not indestructible. How and where you park your vehicle can significantly impact the longevity of your concrete driveway. Excessive weight on the driveway's edges, the weakest points, can lead to cracks and require costly repairs.
Always try to park away from the edges and ensure heavy vehicles do the same. Moreover, avoid spinning your wheels to prevent tire marks, which can diminish your driveway's appearance.
Maintain Cleanliness with Pressure Cleaning
Regular cleaning is key to maintaining your driveway. Dirt and debris can embed in the concrete and lead to discolouration and staining. Utilize an effective cleaning agent such as Sodium Hypochlorite in addition to a pressure washer with a surface cleaner attachment to keep it looking pristine and to help prevent damage.
Address spills, especially from oil, gas, and grease, promptly to avoid permanent staining, even on sealed concrete. Absorb spills with sawdust or cat litter, then sweep it up and clean any remaining stains with eco-friendly, grease-cutting detergents.
Key Points to Remember:
Maintaining a concrete driveway is straightforward with the right approach. Sealing the concrete, careful snow and ice removal, smart parking, and regular cleaning will ensure your investment remains in excellent condition for many years.
