Decorative Concrete Maintenance: Keeping it Looking New
Decorative concrete is designed to stand out. Whether it is exposed aggregate, coloured concrete, polished finishes or textured surfaces, decorative concrete adds visual appeal while delivering the durability concrete is known for. However, like any exterior surface, it performs best when properly maintained.
Below is a step-by-step maintenance guide to help protect your decorative concrete and keep it looking its best for years to come.
Start with regular cleaning
Decorative concrete should be cleaned routinely to prevent dirt build up and surface staining.
For most applications, a simple wash using water and a soft broom is enough. In higher traffic areas such as driveways and pathways, occasional cleaning with a mild detergent will help remove grime, tyre marks and organic matter.
Keeping the surface clean not only maintains appearance but also reduces the risk of long-term staining.
Protect the surface with sealing
Sealing is one of the most important steps in maintaining decorative concrete.
A quality sealer helps:
- Enhance colour and finish
- Reduce water absorption
- Protect against stains from oil and organic debris
- Improve surface durability
Re-sealing frequency depends on the location and level of wear. High traffic areas may require more frequent maintenance. Monitoring surface appearance is key. If water no longer beads on the surface, it may be time to reapply a sealer.
Act quickly on spills
Decorative concrete is durable, but it is not immune to staining.
Oil, grease, leaf tannins and other contaminants should be cleaned as soon as possible. Prompt removal reduces the chance of permanent marks and helps preserve the original finish.
Using appropriate cleaning products that are compatible with sealed concrete surfaces is recommended.
Avoid harsh treatments
To keep decorative concrete looking new, avoid:
- High pressure washing at excessive force
- Metal shovels or tools that may scratch the surface
Gentle cleaning methods help protect both the surface texture and the integrity of the sealer.
Plan for long term performance
Decorative concrete is a long-term investment. With simple, consistent maintenance, it can retain its appearance and structural performance for many years.
Understanding the specific finish used on your project, whether exposed aggregate, coloured concrete or polished surfaces, will help determine the most suitable maintenance schedule.
Decorative concrete offers both strength and visual appeal, and with the right care, it will continue to enhance outdoor and indoor spaces alike.
For more information about decorative concrete finishes, visit our decorative concrete section on the Allied Concrete website or contact our team today.
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