Rain, tree roots, weeds, ice and even foot traffic can wear down your outdoor concrete surfaces; from patios to driveways to walkways. Nature, the elements and people can all do some serious damage to your concrete work over time, but there are ways to avoid the dangers these things present. You can’t completely avoid the wearing down of concrete or the development of cracks that work together to create an eyesore, but there are some tricks you can use to support and protect your concrete at various stages.

Protecting Stamped Concrete

Concrete’s inherent strength, versatility and endurance can help your patio or walkway last for decades if it has been installed and maintained properly. Stamped concrete can take more of a beating than standard concrete can, especially when you add in a color hardener to the surface, which adds a bit of color and also makes it stronger. Adding a protective sealer to your concrete can keep out dirt, chemicals, oil and grease stains, making the surface easier for cleaning and preventing fading from the harmful rays of the sun. You’ll still need to do some regular maintenance on your stamped concrete though. This entails sweeping or washing the concrete so dirt doesn’t have time to build up. You can even pressure wash exterior surfaces or use a mild detergent to scrub off debris when necessary. However, don’t use deicing salts, especially during the first year of installation.

You can spruce up the shine of your concrete if it dulls by coating it again with sealer. If you have a lot of wear patterns in your interior concrete surface from people and pets, apply polish or floor wax for an added layer of protection.

Avoiding Damage

Cracks in your concrete often occur from tree roots, soil movement and the freeze/thaw cycles inherent in the seasons, says Better Homes and Gardens. There are a few things you can do to minimize or prevent cracking, which should be done at the time the concrete is laid. The National Ready Mixed Concrete Association says proper curing is an important step in making sure your concrete surface is resistant to cracks. This involves the application of a liquid membrane curing compound. Sound subgrade and formwork, finishing, joints and sufficient concrete cover can also go a long way toward extending the smooth life of your concrete.

Repairing Cracks

If you do experience hairline cracks in your concrete, fill them in with a concrete crack filler and let it cure overnight, advises HGTV. Filling in larger cracks will require mixing a large batch of concrete and pouring it into the damaged area. Better Homes and Gardens says you’ll need to use dry concrete mix and water for smaller cracks and standard concrete mix with gravel for larger areas.

Finding the right water-to-cement ratio, ensuring the subgrade is sound, deciding on proper places for control joints and knowing the right cure times are all jobs best left to a professional. Hiring a pro to tackle the job at the time of installation will ensure your concrete’s best chances of survival in the long term. You can do your part by performing regular maintenance each year.

This article was provided by Matt Jefferies, construction firm owner and all-around handyman. If you’re looking for solid and long lasting concrete, Matt recommends Houston Concrete.