When my Concrete Driveway Needs be Resealed

Remember, a well-maintained concrete driveway can last for 30 years or more. An asphalt driveway lasts 12 to 20 years. However, an unsealed concrete driveway will only last a fraction of that time.

If your concrete driveway is beginning to look dull and dirty, you should contact a concrete contractor right away, as your concrete probably needs to be resealed. Sealing provides a barrier that protects the surface from oil spills and other contaminants, which help keep its appearance pristine.

Signs It’s Time To Reseal Your Concrete Driveway

Sealing your driveway is a great way to protect it from the elements, which is especially important with winter on the way. But how do you know when it’s time to do it? Here are four signs that your driveway needs sealing:

Fading Color

The most obvious sign is when the color of your concrete has become dull or gray. The sealant will bring back the original color of your concrete driveway and make it look like new again. If you’re not sure if it needs to be resealed, splatter some water on the concrete surface and observe what happens. If the water beads up and stays on top of the concrete, then your driveway is still adequately sealed and in good shape. But if the water soaks into the surface of the concrete, then sealing is necessary as soon as possible.

Cracked and Crumbling Concrete

Cracks are a sure sign that your driveway needs to be resealed. Cracks in your concrete driveway allow water, ice and other harmful substances to seep into the surface. Resealing will help prevent this from happening. The cracks are typically caused by age, sun exposure and weathering, but they can also be signs of poor drainage or inadequate support underneath the concrete slabs.

Spills leave a stain on your driveway

Another sign that your concrete driveway needs to be released is when spills leave a stain on your driveway. Even a stain that you can’t see with your eyes is a clear sign that a concrete contractor should be called in to access the situation and begin the work. When you see spills, it’s time for some resealing action when those spill stains start appearing on the surface of your concrete driveway.

The Sealant on your Concrete is Wearing off in Spots

If you notice that the sealant is wearing off in spots, then it’s probably time for a new coat of sealer. This will ensure that everything stays protected and looking great.

You are Noticing some Moss or Mould Appearing on the Surface

If you are noticing some moss or mould appearing on the surface, then there is a good chance that your concrete driveway needs resealing. This is because the sealer will stop water from getting into the concrete and thus deterring plant life from growing. If you notice cracks in the concrete, then this is also another sign that your driveway needs resealing. Cracks can indicate that moisture has penetrated into the concrete, which can cause more damage if left alone.

Conclusion

In many cases, a concrete driveway can go for decades without resealing. But as the years pass, resealing will become necessary to maintain its durability and appearance. If you are unsure whether you need to reseal your driveway, call a professional concrete contractor to check for the any signs and to ascertain whether resealing is needed or not.