Your driveway is not just a place to park your car, it’s also a significant part of your home’s curb appeal. However, over time, your concrete driveway can start to show signs of wear and tear. For such instances, you can always hire Concrete Driveway Specialists Whangarei to get things fixed before getting worse.
But if it also pays to do necessary regular maintenance. With these simple maintenance tricks up your sleeve, you can keep your concrete driveway looking great and avoid costly repairs down the road. Read ahead and discover how you can maintain your concrete driveway like a pro.
Know How to Clean the Concrete
Keeping your concrete driveway clean is an essential part of its maintenance. Over time, dirt, grime, and stains can accumulate on the surface, making it look dull and unattractive. So start by sweeping away any loose debris like leaves or twigs. This will prevent them from scratching the surface when you clean it.
Next, use a pressure washer or hose with a high-pressure nozzle to remove stubborn dirt and grime. Make sure to work in small sections and keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the surface to avoid damaging it. Once you’ve cleaned your driveway thoroughly, rinse it off with clean water to remove any residue left behind by cleaning solutions.
Fix Any Small Cracks Right Away
Small cracks in your concrete driveway may seem insignificant at first, but if left unattended, they can lead to bigger problems down the line, including water that can seep into them and cause further damage during freeze-thaw cycles. So start by cleaning the crack with a wire brush and removing any loose debris or dirt that may be trapped inside.
Next, apply a high-quality concrete patching compound into the crack using a putty knife. Ensure to fill the entire depth of the crack and smooth out the surface for an even finish. Set the patching compound to dry completely before walking or driving over it.
Avoid Using Chemical De-Icers and Salt
While these products may seem like a quick fix for removing ice and snow, they can actually cause long-term damage to your driveway. Chemical de-icers contain harsh substances that can penetrate the surface of the concrete, causing it to deteriorate over time. Salt, in particular, is known for its corrosive properties that can eat away at the concrete and weaken its structure.
Instead of relying on these harmful products, there are alternative methods you can use to remove ice and snow from your driveway. One option is to use sand or kitty litter as a traction aid. These materials provide grip without damaging the concrete. You can also use a snow blower as a manual, safer method.
Remove Any Tree Root Around the Driveway
Here is a fact. Tree roots have the potential to cause serious damage to your driveway, leading to costly repairs in the future. When trees are thriving too close to a driveway, their roots can spread out and grow underneath the surface. Over time, these roots can push against the concrete, causing cracks and upheaval.
This not only affects the appearance of your driveway but also poses a safety hazard for anyone walking or driving on it. To prevent this problem from occurring, regularly inspect your driveway and remove any tree roots that may be encroaching upon its perimeter. Start by carefully digging around the affected area with a shovel or garden fork. Then use pruning shears or loppers to cut away invasive roots.
By implementing these maintenance tips regularly, you’ll ensure that your concrete driveway remains strong, durable, and visually appealing for years to come. So take charge of its upkeep today – it’s an investment that will save you money in the future.