A new concrete driveway is a big investment. If you take care of it, it can last for 50 years or more. Here's what you need to know to care for your new concrete driveway.

1. Give it time to cure.

Don't use your new driveway for at least a week after it's been poured. During that time, keep cars and other vehicles off of it, even if you have to park in the street. Allowing the concrete to cure properly will make it stronger and more durable in the long run.

Additionally, you can help the curing process by hosing down the new concrete driveway with water several times a day during that first week. Construction expert Bob Vila states that this type of moist curing will "allow the moisture in the concrete to evaporate slowly" and generate a concrete driveway that is "up to 50 percent stronger."

Finally, keep heavy equipment and delivery trucks off your concrete driveway for several weeks or more to let the concrete fully dry.

2. Keep it clean.

Sweep away any dirt, leaves, or debris that falls on your driveway. If you let these things build up, they can speed up the aging process of your concrete. As the leaves decay, they'll release chemicals that can discolor or even damage your driveway.

To clean tough stains, you can use a pressure washer or a garden hose with a spray attachment. If you go the pressure washing route, be sure to hold the wand at least a foot or more away from the surface of your driveway to avoid damaging it.

3. Seal it up.

Sealing your driveway helps protect it from weather damage, stains, and cracks. You should seal your new concrete driveway every few years, depending on the type of sealer you use, the weather in your part of the country, the amount of wear and tear your driveway experiences, and whether or not you use salt on your driveway in the winter. Chemicals like de-icing salts can be tough on concrete driveways. Use them sparingly, and always brush away any residue afterward, so it doesn't have a chance to eat away at the surface of your driveway.

A new concrete driveway is a big investment that can last for many years, but only if you take care of it properly. By following these simple tips, you can keep your driveway looking great for decades to come. 

For more information about concrete driveways, contact a local professional.