Driveways and pathways have long been constructed using concrete as the main material. Concrete is highly robust and long-lasting when it is built properly. It works effectively and holds up well in a variety of environments. To ensure longevity and preserve a pleasing appearance, however, regular maintenance is necessary, just like with practically all other building materials. Concrete driveways can last for many years with the right maintenance.

Despite the fact that concrete is thought to be more economical than other landscaping materials, it also requires almost no care, which is an important factor to take into account when having concrete work completed. A little routine maintenance will make your driveway survive longer in the future. You only need to commit a few hours of effort each season and adhere to a few simple maintenance procedures.

• Guarantee proper curing - You need to comprehend the curing procedure before installing a new concrete driveway. As a result, it will always be in immaculate condition and driveway upkeep will be simple. The development of your driveway's overall longevity and quality depends on proper curing. The blending of the two main components of your driveway is accelerated by moisture. As a result, if the concrete dries too quickly, the operation will come to an early end. The outcome is a scaly or flaky appearance and a frail structure. Professionals will handle the initial curing process during the driveway installation. You are responsible for ensuring the overall quality of the concrete once they have left.

• Maintain its cleanliness - Cleaning your concrete driveway periodically of any debris is the most crucial step in keeping it presentable. Concrete can irreversibly discolor from oil, gas, and grease absorption up to a quarter-inch deep. Even if the concrete has been sealed, stains should be cleaned right away to avoid damaging the clean appearance of your driveway. Pressure washing and the use of specific cleaning agents will remove the majority of any stains from discolored concrete.

• Fix problem spots - Treatment is required if there are cracks in the concrete or areas where parts have fallen off before moisture and the winter weather exacerbate the issue. To prevent further destruction, fill holes and cracks in the concrete with a concrete patching product. If they are left unrepaired, cracks in the expansion joints where the concrete slabs are joined can be just as troublesome. To fix these cracks, properly clean the junction and then seal it using silicone concrete caulk to prevent moisture penetration inside.

• Reapply sealant as necessary - After the concrete has been poured and has had time to set, most driveways are coated with a specialized sealant to avoid stains. However, after time the sealant deteriorates. You may need to clean and reseal the concrete more frequently to maintain it looking its best, depending on the weather conditions it is subjected to and the traffic it holds up. In order to maintain your concrete driveway's cleanliness and safety from the environment, general wear, and activity, it should ideally be reapplied every two years.

• Remove snow with care - While using chemical or salt de-icing treatments can be practical in the winter, concrete driveways can be harmed by these chemicals. Since the ice melts and then refreezes, employing deicers in particular frequently causes flaking and spalling of the concrete. It's crucial to avoid using salt or chemical items during the very first winter after installation because freshly built concrete is more susceptible to harm. Utilizing a plastic shovel or snowblower is preferable. To prevent scraping the concrete's surface when the snowblower runs over the driveway, be careful not to push it down. Additionally, when attempting to break up packed snow or ice on the driveway, it is advisable to avoid using other sharp instruments.

• Park wisely - Although it's true that concrete is sturdy, it can nevertheless collapse. Avoid putting too much pressure on the driveway's edges, from which the concrete is much more delicate. When parking, keep heavy machinery and construction vehicles as far away from the driveway's border as you can.

• Avoid cracks before they happen - If there are any trees or shrubs next to your concrete driveway, their roots can force up against the concrete's surface since they grow under there. That leads to cracks and other types of damage. By clearing the area around and close to your concrete driveway of bushes and trees, you can prevent that from happening. Trim the roots of these plants if you would rather not remove them. In this manner, you may be certain they won't harm your driveway.

• Driveway replacement - It will be necessary to replace the driveway when it becomes too worn out or damaged. Even while it is possible to only remove the affected parts and replace them with fresh concrete, this won't produce a solid bond and the colors might not coordinate with the varied aggregates. If the damage has penetrated the concrete's foundation and lies beneath the surface, it might not be viable to restore the surface. Alternatively, think about beginning from scratch to replace your concrete road with a beautiful and durable finish.

The lifespan of a well-constructed concrete driveway is substantially extensive. Additional investment in concrete is something you would prefer not to undertake. The most important decision you must make is which concrete driveway installation company to use. Once you've decided that concrete is the perfect material for your home, contact R & M Concrete & Construction, LLC. Our team can take care of all of your specifications, including replacing aged concrete and installing a new and functional concrete driveway. We have years of experience creating driveways in Lacey and Olympia, WA, and can help you turn your driveway into a piece of outdoor artistry that improves curb appeal and can withstand the elements. Call R & M Concrete & Construction, LLC at (360) 515-0529 to give us the opportunity to show you why we have such a high retention rate for new clients.