How to Maintain Your New Concrete Surface (And Keep It Looking New for Years)

A Homeowner’s Guide to Concrete Care in Colorado Springs, CO

You just invested in a brand-new concrete patio, driveway, or walkway—and it looks amazing. Clean lines, fresh finish, maybe even a custom stamp or color. But like anything around your home, concrete needs a little care to keep it performing (and looking) its best.

Concrete is one of the most durable materials available—but in Colorado Springs' unique climate, maintenance is the key to longevity.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to maintain your concrete surface, prevent premature damage, and protect your investment for the long haul.

🛡️ 1. Seal Your Concrete (And Reseal Every Few Years)

Concrete is porous. That means it can absorb water, oils, and stains unless it’s sealed.

Why sealing matters:

• Protects from UV damage and fading

• Prevents moisture intrusion during freeze-thaw cycles

• Reduces staining from oil, rust, or leaves

• Enhances color and finish for stamped or decorative concrete
  
  

When to seal:

• Initial seal: Usually 30 days after installation (depending on the project and weather)

• Reseal: Every 2–3 years for optimal protection
  
  

We offer sealing services for all concrete types—including driveways, patios, walkways, and retaining walls.

🚫 2. Avoid De-Icing Salts (Especially in the First Year)

This is a big one—especially during Colorado Springs' icy winters.

Why salts are harmful:

• They increase freeze-thaw damage

• Cause surface scaling or flaking

• Accelerate the breakdown of your sealer
  
  

Safer alternatives:

• Use sand or kitty litter for traction

• Shovel snow early to prevent ice formation

• Consider applying a concrete-safe deicer (after the first winter only)
  
  

🧽 3. Keep It Clean

Keeping your concrete clean isn’t just about appearance—it’s about preventing buildup that can damage the surface.

Tips:

• Sweep regularly to remove debris

• Rinse with a garden hose or low-pressure washer (avoid high PSI)

• Use mild soap and water to clean up spills

• Remove leaves and standing water to prevent discoloration
  
  

Avoid harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners—they can break down the sealer or stain the surface.

🪨 4. Watch for Cracks (And Repair Them Early)

Small cracks happen in all concrete over time—but if caught early, they can be filled before they become big problems.

Signs to watch for:

• Hairline cracks that appear after a cold winter

• Cracks along control joints or slab edges

• Surface chips or spalling
  
  

What to do:

• Contact us for a free inspection

• We offer concrete repair and resurfacing services to restore appearance and prevent structural issues
  
  

📐 5. Mind the Edges

Most surface damage starts at the edges—where concrete is more exposed.

Protect the edges by:

• Avoiding driving over patio or walkway edges

• Keeping landscaping tools and mowers off the sides

• Using proper downspout extensions to direct water away from the slab
  
  

If your edge is chipped or crumbling, we can assess and repair it before it worsens.

🧊 6. Plan for Colorado Springs' Weather

Our area’s freeze-thaw cycles, sun exposure, and sloped terrain all impact how concrete performs.

What we recommend:

• Choose air-entrained concrete mixes (which we use by default)

• Keep your concrete sealed and sloped properly

• Consider covering decorative surfaces during extreme cold or sun exposure

• Schedule maintenance during spring or fall, when conditions are ideal
  
  

💬 Real Homeowner Story

“We had a stamped concrete patio installed and sealed it right away. Three years later, it still looks amazing. Colorado Springs Concrete Services showed us exactly how to care for it, and they come back every couple years to reseal. Worth every penny.”
– Lori J., Red Hawk

📞 Need Help Maintaining or Resealing Your Concrete?

Whether you need to reseal your concrete, repair cracks, or just want a professional to take a look—our team is here to help.

👉 Call us today or request a free maintenance quote online. We’ll assess your surface, give honest recommendations, and help you protect your concrete for years to come.