If you’ve got a brand new concrete driveway the last thing you want is it to be damaged. While concrete is sturdy and long lasting if it’s not properly taken care of your new driveway can be unnecessarily damaged. Small cracks and stains can lead to further damage. In a worst-case scenario, you might end up having to replace the concrete. With simple maintenance your concrete will last years and will stay pristine. In this blog, we are sharing tips on how to keep your concrete looking brand new.
Trees
The best way to keep your driveway pristine is prevention. If there are trees and plants near your driveway the likelihood is the roots will spread under the concrete and push it up. This will cause a lumpy and cracked driveway. Trees should be at least three metres away from your driveway. Save your future self the hassle and remove the nearby tree.
If you want trees and plant life next to your driveway, for shade or landscaping, there are trees that won’t damage your concrete as much. Pick a tree that is fruitless so it doesn’t make a mess and something that is slow growing. Trees like Crabapples, certain types of oak and even some kinds of maple are a good choice for your driveway.
General Cleaning
Keeping your driveway clean and tidy will go a long way to maintaining your driveway. This will help you get rid of stains and any mould that might be growing. Here is a list of the best ways to clean your driveway:
The first thing you should do is sweep your driveway before washing it.
Using a pressure washer is a great way to generally clean your driveway as well as getting rid of difficult stains. You can use it along with a generic detergent.
An absorbent like kitty litter, cornstarch, cornmeal, or baking soda will help getting rid of stains. Apply it to the area and leave it for an hour or two before washing it off.
Seal
Sealing your concrete driveway not only gives it a nice finish but it also protects it from stains. This will make your driveway more durable to severe weather and heavy traffic. Sometimes water can seep into the concrete and cause cracks when the water freezes. Sealing your driveway will provide extra protection from water damage. Sealants do last a long time and will eventually need to be reapplied. Ideally, you should replace the sealant every couple of years. If your driveway is part of a business it should be replaced more frequently.
Stain removal
Removing stains doesn’t just make your driveway look better it improves the longevity of the concrete. Stains from oil, gasoline and grease can damage the concrete because, over time, it will start to disintegrate the concrete.
The best way to remove the stains is high water pressure or an absorbent solution. For smaller stains, you can use detergent and a steel scrub. For bigger stains, you can use an absorbent or a degreaser.
If you don’t have a pressure washer or a degreaser, don’t worry. An absorbent like kitty litter, cornstarch, cornmeal, or baking soda will help getting rid of stains. Apply it to the area and leave it for an hour or two before washing it off.
Filling Cracks
If your concrete driveway does have a crack, don’t worry, your driveway can be saved. Fill the crack immediately and you can stop it from spreading and causing further damage to your driveway. You can fill the crack with these simple steps:
Clean out any debris and grit in the crack with a chisel and a brush.
Clean the area using water pressure and let it dry.
Mix concrete until the consistency is doughy. If the crack is small you can use a Sand mix or concrete resurfacer
Pour the concrete over the cracks and damaged areas.
Use a flat edged tool to push the concrete mixture into the cracks and smooth the surface.
Remove the excess concrete and make sure the surface is even.
Let it dry overnight.
Coat the area with an even layer of resurfacer.
Use a broom to give the concrete a bit of texture. The will stop the concrete from getting slippery when it rains.
It may seem like a lot of work but it will prevent your driveway from further damage or need to be replaced.
A Better Driveway are your friendly concrete experts and can help you with any concrete service you may need. If you have queries or you simply want to learn more, contact one of our friendly staff members at 0412 537 776.