A concrete driveway is a long-term investment, and with the right care, it can stay strong and attractive for decades. While all concrete naturally forms small cracks, proper maintenance helps reduce them and keeps your slab performing at its best.
Here is the complete 2025 guide for Queensland homeowners.
1. All Concrete Cracks Naturally
It’s important to understand:
✔ Every concrete slab will develop small cracks
✔ These are normal and expected
✔ Reinforcement and control cuts manage where cracks appear
Your goal is controlled cracking — NOT zero cracking.
2. Protect the Driveway in the First Week
Concrete is at its weakest during the first 7 days.
Avoid:
✘ Parking vehicles
✘ Heavy tools
✘ Using jacks or trailer stands
Walk on it, yes — drive on it, no. These early steps matter because concrete gains strength gradually. If you want a clearer idea of how concrete hardens during the first month, understanding how long concrete takes to cure in Queensland conditions is very helpful.
3. Keep Heavy Vehicles Off for 28 Days
Concrete reaches full cure at 28 days.
Avoid early:
✘ Caravans
✘ Boats
✘ Utes
✘ Trucks
Wait for full strength for heavy loads.
4. Maintain Good Drainage
Water pooling can damage edges and weaken concrete over time.
Check:
✔ Downpipes don’t drain onto the slab
✔ Gardens aren’t higher than driveway edges
✔ No pooling near the house
Good drainage protects your slab.
5. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Concrete is durable but sensitive to some chemicals.
Avoid:
✘ Petrol
✘ Diesel
✘ Brake fluid
✘ Harsh cleaners
✘ Acid-based products
Rinse spills quickly.
6. Protect the Driveway Edges
Edges are the most vulnerable part of any slab.
Avoid:
✘ Parking wheels on edges
✘ Driving over garden borders
✘ Allowing soil washout beside edges
Strengthen edges with:
✔ Turf
✔ Gravel
✔ Garden edging
7. Clean the Surface Regularly
Use:
✔ Hose
✔ Soft broom
✔ Mild detergent
Avoid:
✘ High-pressure cleaning in the first month
✘ Metal scrapers
✘ Chemical degreasers
Regular cleaning preserves appearance.
8. Be Aware of Tree Roots
Large trees near driveways can cause lifting and cracks.
Solutions:
✔ Avoid planting large-root trees nearby
✔ Trim roots early
✔ Use root barriers if necessary
9. Sealing (Optional)
Benefits of sealing:
✔ Richer colour
✔ Extra stain resistance
✔ Easier cleaning
Optional, not essential.
10. Avoid Heavy Machinery During Home Projects
Protect your driveway during:
– Landscaping
– Deliveries
– Renovations
Place timber under ramps or avoid machines entirely.
Why Maintenance Matters
✔ Extends the life of your driveway
✔ Protects edges
✔ Prevents avoidable cracking
✔ Keeps your home looking clean
✔ Saves money long-term
Why Choose Us?
✔ Strong slabs designed for QLD
✔ Reinforcement & proper cuts
✔ High-quality finishing
✔ Honest maintenance advice
✔ Servicing Logan, Brisbane, Ipswich & Gold Coast
Need Your Driveway Assessed?
We can inspect your driveway and offer maintenance recommendations. If you want trusted help with concreting in Logan, our team is ready to assist.
