Guides

Caring for new concrete

Concrete keeps getting stronger for weeks after the pour. Treat it gently at the start and it will look after you for decades.

Typical timings

ActivityUsually after
Walking on it1–2 days
Cars and light vehiclesabout 7 days
Trucks, skip bins, heavy loadsabout 28 days

These are general guides. Weather, the mix and the thickness all change them — we will give you the timing for your job.

Cracks and control joints

Concrete shrinks a little as it dries, so all concrete cracks somewhere. The straight saw cuts — control joints — give it a planned place to crack. Fine hairline cracks are normal and do not mean the concrete is failing. Wide cracks, or one side sitting higher than the other, are worth a call.

Everyday care

  • Clean oil and fuel spills quickly, before they soak in.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals; mild detergent and a broom do most jobs.
  • Keep heavy vehicles and skip bins off the edges, which are the weakest part.
  • Do not let garden beds or sprinklers keep the edges wet all the time.
  • Sealed or exposed aggregate surfaces benefit from resealing every few years.