Concrete is a popular choice of material for driveways, largely because it is a very hard-wearing substance that can withstand a great deal of wear and tear before it needs to be replaced. However, whilst it is certainly one of the more robust driveway materials, it is not completely impervious to damage. Read on to learn about some of the steps you can take to keep your concrete driveway in tip-top condition.
Tackle cracks as soon as they appear
Fluctuating temperatures, coupled with frequent vehicle traffic, can result in cracks appearing in a concrete driveway. Whilst the presence of a few, tiny hairline cracks is not usually cause for alarm, it is sensible to have this type of damage repaired as soon as possible as these cracks will increase in size over time and may eventually turn into potholes.
Potholes not only cost more to repair than cracks, but they also put your vehicle at risk of damage (driving over one on a regular basis could negatively affect a car's suspension system, as well as its tyres).
If you're a bit of a DIY aficionado, you may be able to perform this repair work yourself. If not, then it's generally better to hire a local professional who specialises in concrete crack repairs to do this job for you.
Keep on top of basic maintenance
Sticking to a consistent maintenance routine serves two purposes; firstly, it ensures that your driveway looks presentable and attractive at all times. Secondly, it helps to prevent damage and thus prolong the driveway's lifespan.
Giving the driveway a sweep with a stiff-bristled outdoor brush once a week will remove dust, soil particles and other debris from the surface. Weeds that are left to grow inside tiny cracks in your driveway can lead to the expansion of those cracks as the plant increases in size. Use your hands or a gardening tool to pull up any weeds that have begun to grow on the driveway, and spritz the area that you plucked them from with some weedkiller to prevent further growth.
If you live in the countryside and your driveway is often covered in thick patches of mud, you may also want to use a pressure washer to wash away this dirt every now and then. Make sure to use the washer's lowest setting for this task, however, as otherwise, it may end up damaging the concrete.
