Skip to main content

When replacing the driveway at your home, some of the qualities you would like your new driveway to have are durability, strength, and appeal. A concrete driveway has these qualities and more. Concrete driveways have a longer lifespan when compared to most other types of driveways. Although concrete driveways may cost slightly more upfront to install, the benefits realised over time, including the driveway’s longevity will have you saving money in the long run. 

If you have an old concrete driveway, or are about to install a new one, we have put together some key maintenance tips to keep your concrete driveway in great condition. 

Keep the Driveway Clean

Oil, gasoline, and grease have the potential to deteriorate the protective top coat or sealant on your driveway, eventually causing harm to the underlying concrete surface. Spills and leaks can also leave behind stubborn stains that become permanent blemishes on your driveway if not cleared up in a timely fashion. Therefore, it’s crucial to address any stains on your driveway promptly and effectively, and consider power washing stubborn stains when needed, especially when dealing with persistent substances like oil and grease.

Avoid Using Ice Melting Products

During the winter, when snow covers your driveway’s surface, do not use ice melting chemicals to get rid of the snow on top of your concrete driveway. The reason for this is that the chemical composition of those ice melting products can eat away at the surface of your driveway resulting in pitting and other damage to your driveway. When possible, take the time to clear the snow from the driveway with a shovel or snow blower.

Do Not Allow Water or Snow to Accumulate 

When water and snow stay on the surface of your concrete driveway for too long, they may penetrate the concrete and result in cracks. Therefore, you can clear a runoff area for water around the edges of the driveway.

Use Sealants to Prevent Cracks

One of the easiest ways to prevent cracks and pitting to occur on your concrete driveway is by applying concrete sealants to its surface every year or two. Concrete is porous and can absorb moisture, when the temperatures drop below freezing, the moisture in the concrete expands causing cracks and pitting. Sealing your driveway will limit the amount of moisture your driveway can absorb. If cracks appear on your driveway, be sure to seal them immediately as well to prevent additional damage. 

Concrete driveways are a long-term investment, especially if you maintain and keep it in good condition. The most important thing is to prevent deterioration of the driveway by applying these above maintenance tips. A well-maintained driveway adds to your home’s aesthetic appeal, adds value to your home and will last for years to come.