As Good as New: 7 Driveway Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

Concrete driveways are designed to last, but that doesn’t mean they won’t require maintenance. Proper maintenance can help the driveway last a lot longer and can help it remain in good condition. Use the
following tips to properly maintain a driveway.

Keep the Driveway Clean

Keeping the driveway clean is imperative. Dirt and debris can get trapped in cracks and make them worse. Algae growth on the driveway can make it slippery, so it’s not safe to walk on. Instead, visit a website like aplussoftwash.com to learn how regular pressure washing can keep the driveway clean. A clean driveway is going to be in much better shape, and it’s going to look a lot better, too.

Clean Any Spills Fast

Spills are going to happen on the driveway, but how they’re handled can make a big difference. Always clean up spills as fast as possible, no matter how large or small they are. It may be a good idea to keep kitty litter or other absorbents in the garage so any spills can be cleaned up instantly. This will keep them from staining the driveway.

Reseal the Driveway as Needed

Properly sealing the driveway can help ensure it remains in good condition as long as possible. Sealants can keep debris and water from seeping into the concrete and can help prevent stains. There are plenty of different sealants to use. As long as they are applied appropriately, they can help protect the driveway from damage.

Fill Any Cracks Quickly

Cracks can happen over time in any driveway, even if it’s well maintained. If the cracks are caused by nearby trees, it may be necessary to remove the tree or trim the roots to stop the crack from getting worse. No matter why the crack appeared, filling it quickly can help prevent it from spreading. If your driveway has got to point where the cracks are severe, it may be best to simply get someone like this Minnesota Paver out to replace the entire thing so that you can start again and start taking proper care of your driveway to avoid this happening again in the future.

Create a Way for Water to Run Off

Puddling water can wear down the concrete. Whether it’s from tons of rain or the snow melting, water should be able to run off the driveway easily. If water tends to puddle, the driveway may need to be repaired. A drainage space on either side of the driveway can help push the water away from the edges of the driveway, which can help prevent shifting that could cause damage.

Avoid Any Chemicals on Driveway

Chemicals on the driveway can cause serious damage. Homeowners in areas with snow will want to avoid using deicing chemicals on the driveway. A better idea is to spread sand on the driveway, then sweep it off at the end of the winter. This provides traction without damaging the driveway.

Be Wary of Sharp Objects on Driveway

Sharp objects used on the driveway can cut into it, creating areas where water or debris can collect. This could lead to cracking or other issues. Instead, when shoveling snow or otherwise cleaning the driveway,
avoid using any tools that have sharp edges. Choose tools that cannot scrape or damage the driveway easily.

Proper maintenance for a driveway isn’t difficult, but it does need to be done to prevent major issues. Use the following tips here to keep your driveway in great shape so it lasts as long as possible and to ensure it continues to look great. With the right care, your driveway can last for years.