How To Refinish Your Concrete Driveway

Is your concrete driveway beginning to look worn or develop cracks and potholes? Is so, you should know that restoring your driveway to its former glory may be much easier than you would imagine. In fact, this task can often be completed on a do-it-yourself basis by following the simple steps outlined below.

What You Will Need

• Pressure Washer
• Masonry Cleaner
• Concrete Resurfacer
• Bucket
• Mixing Paddle
• Flat Edge Trowel
• Rubber Squeegee With Extended Handle

Step #1: Clear All Debris From Driveway

In order to ensure a smooth surface once the job is complete, you will need to make sure all of the dirt and debris are removed from your driveway before you begin the refinishing process. This can be done by using a pressure washer to remove all of the dirt from the surface of your driveway, as well as any loose debris that may be inside the cracks in your driveway. For especially stubborn stains, masonry cleaner can be used in conjunction with your pressure washer to achieve a perfectly clean driveway surface.

Step #2: Repair Any Damage To Your Driveway

The next step in the restoration process is to repair any cracks or potholes in your driveway. This should be done by mixing a batch of concrete resurfacer in a large bucket using a mixing paddle until the concrete resembles a thick brownie or cake batter.

Next, pour the concrete mixture into each of the cracks and holes until they are overflowing. Using a flat edge trowel, work the concrete resurfacer deep into the damaged areas and smooth the surface when finished. Finally, allow several hours to pass so that the repaired concrete can set thoroughly before completing the job.

Step #3: Create A Blemish-Free Finish

Once all of your repair patches have been allowed to cure, you will need to mix a new batch of concrete resurfacer. This batch should be much thinner than the batch used to fill the cracks in your driveway.

After preparing your concrete mixture, pour this mixture over the entire driveway surface. Using your squeegee, spread the concrete resurfacer over the driveway using long, even strokes. Finally, allow the driveway to dry for a few days before resuming regular use. This will prevent any etching or dents in the fresh concrete surface.

A Final Thought

Refinishing a concrete driveway with minor damage is a relatively easy task. However, restoring a severely damaged driveway can be a very different story. When dealing with this type of extensive damage, it is important to contact a qualified contractor, like those at Island Asphalt Co, in order to determine if the driveway can be safely restored or if it will need to be replaced.