Concrete, or more specifically ready-mix concrete, is a common material for driveways and walkways. While it works well and is usually quicker to pour, it is prone to some issues. Discoloration, flaking, and crumbling are all pitfalls of ready-mix concrete. Fortunately, these pitfalls can easily be avoided.
If you have recently had your driveway or walkway poured with ready-mix concrete, use these four tips to help it keep it looking beautiful and healthy for years to come:
1. Keep Salt And De-Icers At Bay
If you live in a snowy or icy area, you probably use salt to keep ice away. While salt works wonderfully to melt snow and ice—and even add traction—it wreaks havoc on your concrete driveway or walkway. To keep your driveway clean and in good condition, avoid using salt. If salt happens to get onto your driveway due to driving, street sweepers, or snow plows, remove
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De-icers are commonly used to help melt snow and ice. They can also be used to keep snow or ice from accumulating. They work wonderfully, but contain harsh chemicals that breakdown your ready-mix concrete. If you can, avoid using these chemicals at all costs. If you need some added traction in the winter months, opt for a less destructive technique such as applying sand or kitty litter, to your walkway or driveway.
2. Apply A Sealant
Your concrete should have a protective sealant applied to it. This sealant helps block out water, moisture, and mold. It also prevents staining, cracking, and crumbling. If you haven't had a sealant applied recently, apply one before winter arrives.
3. Keep It Clean
Just like the floors inside your home, your outside walkways and driveways need to be kept clean. Not only does it make them aesthetically pleasing, but it also keeps them safe. Make sure you regularly power wash your concrete with water. Additionally, make sure you remove anything that is piling up on your concrete such as snow, ice, rotting leaves or grass, and