Concrete driveways, pathways and alfresco areas are beautiful outdoor elements with all the enduring benefits of hardscaping. Although concrete driveways in Melbourne offer longevity and reduced maintenance, concrete elements will eventually require resealing. Even if you maintain your concrete driveway correctly, your driveway’s seal should be replaced every few years. If you’re considering resealing your concrete driveway, A Better Driveway is here to help with everything you need to know to rejuvenate your concrete space.
The purpose of concrete sealant
Sealant is a protective top layer applied to the concrete that extends the life of your concrete driveway, patio or path. Concrete sealers have many benefits including:
- Protection from UV rays which can cause the colour to fade
- Protection from water exposure
- Protection from weather and damaging environmental elements (Eg: salty wind is commonplace in a beachside property)
- Prevents any cracks in the concrete from expanding
- Protection from chemicals and oils
- Protection from abrasion
- Making the surface easier to clean and maintain
- Elevating the concrete’s colour and adding shine
There are many types of sealants that protect the driveway from contaminants, so it’s important to choose the right sealant for your project. Consider what damaging elements your concrete is most exposed to when selecting your sealant. For instance, the pool’s edging would benefit from a sealant that specialises in water protection while the concrete footpath of a high traffic area should be protected from abrasion and have good slip resistance. Choosing the right sealant can make your concrete installation more cost-effective but the wrong sealant can ruin the finish and overall appearance, so always trust the professional advice of a Melbourne concrete driveway contractor like those at A Better Driveway.
The process of sealing concrete
No matter what style, if it has been many years since you last sealed your driveway, it will need to be resealed by a trusted concrete service. Sealants typically last for around two years, depending on the traffic of your driveway, and should be resealed outside of the cold, winter months. Sealing typically takes several days and the cold and wet weather makes it difficult for the resealing process to be performed. Once you’ve set aside some time for your concrete area to remain unused and selected the appropriate sealant for your project, the resealing process can begin.
1. Clean and prepare the driveway
Before the sealant is applied, it is important to clean your driveway of any dirt or grime from the wear and tear of usage to avoid sealing in dust and debris. This includes treating stains with a scrubber and concrete cleaner and repairing any cracks or damage. Oils and dirt will not allow the concrete to seal properly which is why it’s important to thoroughly clean by pressure washing the concrete surface. After pressure cleaning, the concrete driveway will need time to dry, typically 48 hours, which is why it is important to check the weather in advance for sunny, warm days.
2. Test patch
If you’ve enlisted the help of a professional like the team at A Better Driveway, then you’ll avoid the costly mistake of choosing the incorrect sealer. Otherwise, choosing an unobtrusive area of the driveway to apply a small amount of sealant as a patch test can determine if you like the finish before committing a financial mistake. Wait for the area to dry and if you don’t like the finish, purchase some more sealer or call a trusted Melbourne concrete driveway contractor.
3. Sealant application
There are a couple of methods of sealant application including painting, rolling or spraying. The best method for sealant application will depend on your concrete project and the selected sealant, but typically it is best to start by sealing the edge of the concrete installation by hand for precision. Try to ensure even coverage and take care where the concrete driveway meets structures or landscaping to avoid splashes. Always follow the directions of the manufacturer and apply a second coat of sealant if necessary.
4. Allow time to dry
The sealant can take 24 hours to dry and be ready for use. This means that during this crucial drying and curing time, your driveway or concrete area cannot be walked upon and you will have to make other arrangements for parking.
In need of some concrete care?
As trusted experts in concrete driveways in Melbourne, the team at A Better Driveway is here to offer you their premium concrete services in concrete sealing or resealing. Our professional team has all the expert knowledge to help you realise your backyard renovation or concrete vision — whether it’s the ever-popular exposed aggregate concrete or the stylish coloured concrete. Plus, all of our high-quality installations come with a 5-year guarantee!
To add value and street appeal with concrete driveways, patios and paths, contact us today by filling out our online enquiry form or calling on 0412 537 776.