Choosing Gorgeous Concrete

Concrete is a very versatile material that is used for everything from driveways and patios to interior flooring and counter tops. One of the reasons that concrete is so popular for a variety of applications is the fact that it is durable, long-lasting, and affordable. One of the most popular uses for concrete is for driveways. If you're planning to have a concrete driveway poured, use the following tips to maintain it and keep it looking as good as new for many years to come:

Give It Time to Cure

Concrete tends to harden quickly, but just because a concrete driveway doesn't look wet doesn't mean that it is dry. Concrete driveways need time to cure so they can dry and harden completely. After your new concrete driveway is poured, it is in your best interest to limit foot traffic and avoid parking vehicles on the driveway for a few weeks. This gives your concrete driveway the best chance of drying properly so it can last for many years to come.

Seal Your Concrete Driveway

After your concrete driveway is completed cured, it should be sealed in order to protect the surface and prevent cracking. When the driveway is installed, your concrete contractor will most likely seal it when it is completely dry. But it is important to know that concrete sealant does not last forever, so you will need to reseal your concrete driveway regularly, usually around once per year.

Keep Water Off of the Driveway

Water is one of the main enemies of a concrete driveway, so it is important to make sure that water does not pool on the surface. When your concrete driveway is poured, talk to your concrete contractor to ensure that there is a slight slope so water can run off. It is also a good idea to ensure that there is a strip around the perimeter of the driveway that is several inches lower so water easily flows off the surface of the driveway so the surface does not become damaged.

Repair Cracks Right Away

Even though concrete is very strong and durable, as a concrete driveway ages it can develop some cracks. If you notice a crack in your driveway, it is essential to promptly have it filled and repaired. Taking care of cracks in a concrete driveway while they are small will help ensure that they will not spread and grow larger. 

Contact a service, like B M H Concrete Inc, for more help.