Keeping your concrete driveway looking great doesn’t have to be a hassle. The main things you’ll want to focus on are regular sweeping, occasional deeper cleans, sealing it every couple of years, and watching out for cracks. Taking care of these basics preserve the look of your concrete driveway while helping it last longer.
Here’s what you need to do to maximize the life of your concrete driveway.
The Basics of Concrete Driveway Maintenance
Concrete driveways are one of the most durable options on the market, but they still face a lot of wear and tear from weather, cars, and daily use. Regular maintenance helps keep your driveway in good shape, preventing early deterioration, and preserving your home’s curb appeal. When properly maintained, your new concrete driveway can easily last over 30 years.
Regular Sweeping and Cleaning
Sweeping your driveway regularly might seem simple, but it can make a big difference. Dirt, leaves, and debris can pile up quickly, and if you leave them sitting too long, they can stain and even damage your driveway. Just take a push broom and sweep it down once a week—it’s easy and done in just a few minutes.
Every few months (or once each season), you’ll want to give your driveway a deeper clean. Using a pressure washer on a gentle setting every few months helps remove tougher dirt and grime. For stubborn stains like oil or rust, grab a cleaner made specifically for concrete. Apply it according to the instructions, give it a good scrub, and rinse it off completely.
Sealing Your Concrete Driveway
Sealing your concrete driveway every 2-3 years is probably the most important thing you can do to protect it. Concrete can absorb moisture, which leads to cracks and erosion, especially during the freeze thaw cycles in Minnesota. A good concrete sealant provides a protective barrier, helping prevent moisture damage, stains, and cracking.
Here’s how to seal your driveway:
- First, clean the surface thoroughly with a brush or pressure washer and let it dry completely.
- Apply your concrete sealant evenly with a roller or sprayer.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely, especially regarding drying times. - Avoid driving or walking on it for at least 24 hours afterward.
Choosing the Right Sealant for Your Concrete Driveway
There are two main types of sealants used on concrete driveways: acrylic and penetrating sealers. Both will get the job done, but each offers unique advantages that you should consider when picking the best sealer for your driveway.
- Acrylic Sealers: Offer different colors/hues to enhance the look of your driveway. Acrylic sealers are the best for decorative concrete driveways that need the extra UV protection to preserve the style. These are also known for their quick drying and wide variety of colors and sheens.
- Penetrating Sealers: Offer deeper protection from stains and freezing without altering the driveway’s appearance. Penetrating sealers are the best option for homeowners looking to maximize the life of their concrete driveway.
Checking and Repairing Cracks
Cracks will happen eventually for all concrete surfaces, but catching them early can save you a lot of headaches down the line. We generally recommend homeowners to take a moment every few weeks to look over your driveway and check for any small cracks forming. Small cracks might seem minor, but they’ll grow quickly if ignored—especially if winter is right around the corner.
If you happen to notice a small crack forming we recommend taking a quick trip to Menards to get some concrete sealer and fill it in as soon as possible. Small cracks can easily be handled by homeowners with little to no experience. Simply follow the steps below and you’ll have the project wrapped up in no time.
Fixing small cracks is fairly simple:
- Use a wire brush or pressure washer to clean out dirt and debris from the crack.
- Fill it with a concrete crack filler or patching compound.
- Smooth the surface with a putty knife, and let it dry fully before using the driveway.
Handling Larger Cracks
Larger cracks in your concrete driveway usually mean there’s a bigger issue at hand. While you can tackle minor cracks yourself, it’s a good idea to call a concrete professional if you are starting to notice excessive or deep cracking. A professional concrete contractor can determine whether simple repairs, resurfacing, or even partial replacement is necessary to restore the driveway.
Removing Stains on Your Concrete: Oil, Grease, and More
Concrete driveways are fairly susceptible to common stains like oil, grease, and rust. Here’s how to remove them without damaging your concrete:
Oil and Grease
- Apply a concrete degreaser directly to the stain.
- Allow it to sit for 15-30 minutes.
- Scrub the area with a stiff-bristle brush.
- Rinse thoroughly with water.
Rust Stains
- Use a commercial rust remover specifically designed for concrete.
- Apply according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Rinse the area thoroughly afterward.
Protecting Your Concrete Driveway in the Winter
Winter can be especially hard on concrete driveways. While it may be tempting to use the powerful de-icing agents, it’s important to avoid harsh chemicals on concrete since they can damage the surface and cause premature wearing. Instead, use sand or other non-corrosive alternatives for traction. When clearing snow, it’s best to use a plastic edge shovel instead of a metal one to prevent chipping or scratching.
If you hire a snow plow during the winter, it’s good to let them know you have a concrete driveway and to ask them to use a soft plow edge when plowing. Amateur snow plow drivers are notorious for chipping and scratching concrete driveways (or just about all driveways for that matter), so keep that in mind before you accept the lowest bid for your winter snow removal.
In the spring, it’s good to inspect your driveway closely, clean up any winter residue, and reseal if needed.
Other Tips to Protecting Your Concrete Driveway
A few other tips if you’re trying to protect your concrete driveway. Try to avoid regularly parking heavy vehicles or machinery in one spot, as this can weaken and damage the concrete over time. Also, make sure water runoff from gutters or downspouts is redirected away from your driveway to reduce erosion and water damage.
Getting the Most Out of Your Concrete Driveway
Regular maintenance is key to getting the most life out of your concrete driveway. Staying proactive with regular cleaning, sealing, and repairs will help your driveway last far beyond its life expectancy.
If you’re starting to notice excessive cracking, sinking, or major wear, it might be time for a new driveway. Don’t wait until it becomes a bigger problem, contact us at Kali Concrete. Our team of experienced concrete professionals are here to advise you on whether to repair or replace your concrete driveway, and guide you through the entire process. Contact us today to learn more.