Our driveways are resilient and can take a lot of punishment, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t use a little help. As tough as it may seem, concrete still needs a little care to keep in top condition for a long time. Here are some ways you can protect your driveway from the elements and keep this essential part of your home’s exterior structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing for years to come!

Clean It Regularly

You don’t need to wash your driveway every weekend. Unless your driveway has gotten really dirty, you only need to pressure wash your driveway a couple of times a year. Some owners choose to do this themselves, but if you’re not the DIY type or don’t own a pressure washer, scheduling a professional driveway washing with a pressure washing professional is a viable option as well.

Repair Cracks When They Appear

While a few hairline cracks may not be a big deal, major cracks should be sealed right away to prevent them from growing and spreading. To do this, fill the cracks in with concrete caulk or concrete patching compound. Your local hardware experts will be able to recommend the best filler option for your particular driveway, as well as give you advice on the best way to repair the cracks.

Again, if you’re not the DIY type, it’s worth calling in an expert to do it for you instead. Fixing cracks when they happen can prevent concrete replacement from becoming necessary down the line.

Seal Joints Between The Slabs

The joints between your slabs can get invaded by weeds and moss. They also present a weak spot where water can get under the concrete slabs themselves. To prevent this, a polyurethane or epoxy-based sealant can be used to close up the cracks, keeping your concrete more structurally sound.

Periodically Seal The Concrete

Coating the surface of your concrete with a sealer helps extend its lifespan and prevents stains from easily embedding themselves in its surface. Concrete needs a new coat of sealer about once every two years on average, or whenever its finish starts looking rough. If you choose to apply your own concrete sealer, make sure you buy a good, commercial-grade product, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Remove Harmful Chemicals

Certain chemicals can damage concrete if left to sink into its surfaces. Car fluids such as oil and brake fluid have deteriorating effects on the concrete, weakening it and leading to cracking and flaking. If any of these fluids end up on your concrete, such as when doing repairs or maintenance on your vehicle, flush them out of the concrete right away to prevent deterioration to your driveway. Pressure washing is the safest, most thorough way to remove chemical spills on concrete.

And remember, if you need help keeping your concrete in peak condition, schedule a driveway washing from Cleaner Outlook LLC! We’re here to help our customers with their exterior care needs, so we’re always open to questions and offering advice to our clients who are looking for the best ways to keep their concrete in great shape. Whatever we can do to help, we’re here for you!