Concrete Driveway Maintenance: The Ultimate Guide

Regular driveway inspection - Regular driveway inspection is an integral part of maintaining a concrete driveway. Inspections should be done regularly, at least once a year, to ensure the driveway is in good condition. During the inspection, look for cracks, stains, and signs of wear. Cracks can cause significant damage to a driveway if not addressed promptly. Stains can be removed with a pressure washer, but certain stains may require professional service. On top of that, you should look for any areas where water is pooling, as this can lead to cracking. If you notice any of these issues during your inspection, it’s important to address them as soon as possible.

Cracks Repair - Cracks are one of the most common issues with concrete driveways. If left unrepaired, cracks can spread, leading to more severe damage. Fortunately, repairing cracks in a concrete driveway is relatively simple and straightforward.

The first step in fixing a crack is to identify the type of crack. Most cracks are hairline, which are small and narrow, or edge, which tend to run along the edges of the driveway. More minor cracks can be repaired with a masonry patching compound, while larger cracks should be filled with sand and sealed with an elastomeric sealant.

To fill a crack:

1. Use a chisel and hammer to widen it.
2. Sweep away any loose debris and clean the area before applying a masonry patching compound.
3. Tamp the compound down firmly and allow it to dry for several hours before adding sealant.

Stain Removal - Stains on your concrete driveway can be unsightly, and it is important to remove them quickly. The best way to remove stains from a concrete driveway is to use a cleaner specifically designed for concrete. Start by wetting the area with a garden hose, then use the cleaner and a stiff bristle brush to scrub the stain. Rinse the area with a garden hose and repeat until the stain has completely disappeared. For stubborn stains, you may need to use a pressure washer. When using a pressure washer, be sure to keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the surface of the concrete. If you still cannot remove the stain, consider using a concrete etching product that will help to break down the stain.

Resealing Driveway - Routinely resealing your concrete driveway is an essential part of its maintenance. Doing this will help protect your driveway from the elements and keep it looking great for years.

Before resealing your driveway, you must first prepare the surface by cleaning it thoroughly and patching any cracks or holes. Once these preparations are complete, you are ready to begin the resealing process.



First, apply a coat of sealant to the surface of your driveway. Make sure to cover the entire area evenly and fill in any cracks or crevices with the sealant. Allow the sealant to dry completely before applying the second coat.

Once the first coat has dried, you should apply a second coat of sealant over the area. This will provide an extra layer of protection against weathering and wear. Again, make sure to cover the entire area evenly and fill in any cracks or crevices with the sealant. Allow the second coat to dry completely before continuing.

After both coats of sealant have been applied, you should allow them to cure for at least 24 hours. At this point, your driveway should be adequately protected from moisture, UV rays, and other weathering conditions.

Wrapping Up

Regularly maintaining your concrete driveway is essential to keeping it looking great and lasting a long time. Routine inspections, crack repair, stain removal, and resealing are all important steps that should be taken to keep your driveway in good condition. With proper maintenance and care, your concrete driveway can look great and last many years.

Thanks for taking the time to read this article on concrete driveway maintenance! If you have any questions or comments about the maintenance process, please contact us at Waukesha Concrete by JJ. We are always happy to help our customers keep their driveways looking their best.