Maintaining your driveway isn’t complicated, but it does require a bit of regular attention.
A few simple tasks—performed at the right time of year—can dramatically extend the life of the concrete and keep it looking new. Below are key maintenance practices tailored for Minneapolis–St. Paul homeowners.
Seal It Regularly
- Timing: Apply a high-quality penetrating sealer every 2–3 years, or sooner if water no longer beads on the surface.
- Why It Matters Here: Minneapolis–St. Paul’s constant freeze-thaw swings make sealing critical to keep moisture out and prevent spalling.
- Pro Tip: Choose a breathable silane/siloxane sealer rated for cold climates—local suppliers like Hedberg Home or Gertens often carry these.
Clean and Remove Stains Promptly
- Sweep or rinse debris often to avoid grit from winter sanding grinding into the surface.
- For oil or grease, use a concrete-safe degreaser and a stiff brush—avoid harsh acids or wire brushes that can etch the surface.
Manage Water Runoff
- Keep gutters and downspouts directing water away from the driveway, especially before spring thaws.
- Grade surrounding soil so meltwater flows away to prevent pooling and ice build-up.
Protect Against Freeze–Thaw Damage
- Snow Removal: Use a plastic shovel or a snowblower with rubber blades to avoid scratching.
- De-icing: Skip rock salt (sodium chloride). Instead, use sand for traction or a calcium-magnesium acetate product that’s safe for concrete and pets—readily available at Minnesota hardware stores like Fleet Farm or Menards.
Repair Cracks Early
- Inspect in spring and fall for hairline cracks after harsh winters.
- Fill small cracks with a polyurethane or epoxy-based filler to keep moisture out and stop them from widening.
Limit Heavy Loads
- Park heavy trucks or construction equipment elsewhere.
- If large loads are unavoidable, place plywood sheets under tires to spread weight and reduce stress on the slab.
Maintain Expansion Joints
- Replace deteriorated joint filler to keep water and debris from working beneath the slab.
- Caulk joints with a flexible sealant designed for Minnesota temperature extremes.
Mind Landscaping
- Tree roots can lift slabs. Choose non-invasive species like serviceberry or ornamental crabapple and keep large shrubs several feet away.
- Avoid heavy watering near edges to prevent soil erosion and settling.
Driveway showing its age?
Let’s give you a surface built for Minnesota winters—durable, great-looking, and professionally installed from start to finish.