CONCRETE CARE
So you've got a new driveway...
Now let's ensure it lasts a very long time! We know that you've got places to be and things to do, and that your driveway is the launchpad for going out and coming back home. However, we want you to go over these quick tips to preserve the life of your driveway.
CONCRETE CARE + MAINTENENCE
Seal concrete yearly:
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Broom finish – use low gloss acrylic or water-based sealer
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Exposed and Stamped finish – use high gloss acrylic sealer
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SureGrip can be added to reduce slipperiness
Common issues and things to avoid:
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Steer Clear – Avoid driving on your new concrete for a minimum of 7 days, and refrain from parking for at least 14. This will help to ensure proper curing time.
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Avoid all deicing products – Deicing products are not recommended for your concrete, even the ones claiming to be concrete safe as they can cause deterioration. Keep your driveway & sidewalks shoveled and cleared of snow to avoid ice build up. Consider using materials such as Kitty Litter or Play Sand for traction when needed.
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Avoid Chippers – Avoid use of things such as ice chippers, as these will damage the surface of your concrete
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Keep the water away – Concrete is a porous material so clean up all spills or leaks immediately to avoid them being soaked into the concrete. Ensure downspouts are in place and free of blockages. Avoid water saturating your concrete, getting underneath areas of your sidewalks and driveways, or running down your foundation. Proper drainage is essential to the life of your concrete. Overhead garage doors can cause water to pool and ice to build up when closed. All ice, snow and slush should be removed from the garage to decrease the chance of concrete surface deterioration.
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Concrete Cracks – It is completely normal for concrete to crack due to shrinkage. Although measures such as saw cuts may be put in place to control this cracking, it is never a guarantee that the cracking will follow these paths. Cracks LESS than 3mm (1/8”) wide on interior concrete and LESS than 6mm (1/4”) wide on exterior concrete are considered acceptable.
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Avoid contact with fertilizers – Good for your lawn, terrible for your concrete. Many fertilizers contain ammonium nitrate or ammonium sulfate, these will damage your concrete. Clean up any over application of things like fertilizer immediately.
