When you have spent time and money on getting a new concrete driveway, you will want to make sure that it will stay looking good and performing well for many years to come. Concrete is an incredibly hardworking and durable material, but it does need a little routine maintenance to keep it in top condition.
TEXTURED CONCRETE
Textured or stamped concrete is a very popular choice for homeowners, as it comes in a range of colours and designs to suit all types of homes and businesses. Not only does it look good, but it also has the strength and durability that people have come to expect from a concrete driveway. It will last for decades if properly maintained, because in some cases it is even harder than standard concrete, due to the finish applied to its surface.
Textured concrete that is coloured has had a colour hardener applied to its surface layer. The beauty of this substance is not just the fact that it gives colour to the textured concrete, but at the same time it also strengthens the surface. The textured concrete becomes even more impervious to scratches and abrasions, as well as penetration of water and other liquids.
In order to keep the colour looking good and to maintain this additional protective barrier, the textured concrete will need to have the sealer reapplied over time. Generally maintenance is relatively easy because the sealant inhibits stains, but you should still occasionally wash down the surface of the textured concrete, and sweep it so that you avoid build-up of dirt. Use a high pressure washer or a scrubbing brush with a mild detergent to keep the surface clean. Once dry, if the surface is starting to lose its sheen, then make sure you reapply a transparent sealant.
CONCRETE DRIVEWAYS
If your concrete driveway is purely for residential use and not heavy industry use, for example, the concrete drive will need to be resealed around every two years. If it is part of a business access road or you live in areas subject to extreme weather conditions, then you will need to reseal more often than that.
Again, sweeping the concrete and hosing it down with detergent and water will keep dirt build-up at bay, and you should also inspect it during the cleaning process for any cracks or fissures. Cracks have to be mended straightaway, otherwise moisture or chemicals from spills could penetrate the surface of the concrete, get down to the substrate, and start to break it up.
CONCRETE AGGREGATE DRIVEWAYS
There is an enormous range of different coloured aggregate chips available on the market that can make a real design statement when used on your driveway. Keeping this looking good involves cleaning and resealing, and making sure your driveway is free from stains, abrasions and any forms of chemicals or oils that are used to maintain your car.
Wash down your aggregate driveway, again using water and a mild cleaning detergent, and when the drive starts to lose its lustre, it is time to reseal. The sealants are film-forming resins that protect the aggregate against general wear and tear, repelling moisture and bringing out the colour of the aggregate chips. Before resealing with a clear sealant, make sure that your aggregate driveway is free from dust, or else you will end up with a milky looking surface. Then, using an airless sprayer, brush or roller, apply the sealant to restore the good looks of your driveway.