How to Maintain a Concrete Driveway in Fresno, CA
While concrete is the most durable for a driveway, it will eventually show signs of wear. Here are some tips to keep your driveway looking its best. Do not let heavy equipment on your driveway for 30 days after installing it. It’s essential not to allow trucks to turn it on. Tire tracks can be pretty noticeable, so you should never turn heavy equipment on your driveway until you are sure it is safe.
After sealing your concrete driveway, cracks can still appear. Make sure to address damages right away. Water will erode the sealant, so you must keep your vehicles parked far from the edges of the driveway. Then, you can get a concrete patching product from a hardware store. Keeping weeds and grass trimmed will help prevent cracking. Keeping your driveway well-maintained will make your home look more appealing.
Ensure the sealant is water-based, as oil and gas can penetrate the concrete up to a quarter-inch deep. Use a high-quality commercial sealer available at building supply outlets or hardware stores. There are two types of sealers, a wet-look, and a dry-look seal. Wet-look sealers are the more expensive option, but they last longer and prevent grease and oil from staining the surface. Both sealants need to be applied every three to five years.
Regularly check for cracks. Tree roots and encroaching weeds can cause damage to the driveway. Make sure to repair cracks as soon as possible. You can use patching compound or crack filler to fill in gaps. Ensure that your driveway is level, as this will minimize accidents caused by tripping. The driveway should also be sealed to protect it from freezing. Keeping your driveway level is essential as it prevents water from seeping into the concrete.
Choose a reliable contractor for your concrete project. Fly-by-night concrete driveway contractors can produce substandard work and use inferior materials. Having to deal with this kind of extra maintenance can be expensive in the end. You’ll save money in the long run if you hire a professional concrete driveway contractor. Just make sure to ask for recommendations and check online reviews to ensure the company you hire is reputable and dependable.
Seal the driveway with a specialist product. This will protect the surface and delay the onset of stains and weathering. However, even the best sealer will eventually wear off. That’s why applying a new sealer every few years is necessary. This will protect your concrete driveway from damage caused by harsh elements and general wear and tear. A professional will recommend applying a sealer to your concrete driveway at least every three or four years. Apply the sealer when the weather is still fantastic. And make sure you leave at least 24 hours before using it to ensure that it’s fully applied.