While concrete provides many years of low-maintenance enjoyment, our clients often ask if there are steps they can take to keep standard, stamped and decorative concrete looking its best. Find answers to the most common questions below.
Yes, concrete can and should be protected with a quality sealant recommended by a concrete specialist in Canton, OH. Recommendations will vary based on whether you have standard concrete, or you have chosen a stamped, colored or decorative concrete for your driveway or patio. We can advise you as to when to seal your new driveway or patio and how often to reseal based on anticipated use. Generally, resealing every 2-3 years will keep your concrete looking like new. Always clean your driveway or patio before resealing.
You can clean your concrete by pressure washing with a basic detergent that removes embedded dirt and grime. You can use a degreaser and a stiff brush for more stubborn stains. We recommend cleaning your concrete in Stark County annually, however, removing stains when you first notice them will help keep your concrete looking better and make your annual cleaning easier.
Colored or stamped concrete may require unique care to keep its look and color at its most vibrant. The manufacturer of your decorative concrete is your best resource for advice as to appropriate cleaners and sealants for your concrete and whether a second coat of sealant over new concrete is recommended. Regular sweeping and addressing fresh stains with liquid soap is always helpful. Also, be sure your concrete is completely dry before sealing, and follow instructions on your sealant packaging to get the best protection for your concrete driveway or patio.
Stay away from deicers and any product that contains ammonium nitrates and ammonium sulfates, as they can damage your concrete. Also, avoid use of metal blades whenever possible, as they can scratch and chip the surface of your concrete. Obviously snow and ice must be removed to protect your family and visitors, but careful plowing and shoveling, and use of rock salt or calcium chloride will help lengthen the life of your concrete.
Heavy trucks, such as cranes, moving trucks and construction equipment can damage your concrete because of their excessive weight. Recently poured concrete is most vulnerable, so while it is advisable to keep heavy equipment off concrete whenever possible, definitely protect your new concrete for at least the first 30 days.
First, you should try to determine why your driveway or patio has cracked. If your concrete is new, check it carefully for low or high spots that could be vulnerable to spalling or other damage. These should be repaired right away. If a crack has developed in older concrete, addressing it quickly can help prevent it from getting worse. Cracks can be repaired by careful chiseling to create a backward angle, application of a bonding adhesive and use of a vinyl reinforced patch. Feathering the repaired area with a trowel will create a smooth surface that should resist chipping. Call the experts at Brosnahan Concrete in Canton, OH for advice on repairing cracks in your concrete, especially larger cracks.