How Long Does Concrete Last? Lifespan, Tips, and More

Posted on April 23, 2025 by admin

Concrete is one of the most durable and widely used materials in construction, valued for its strength and versatility. However, its longevity isn’t limitless. Whether you’re considering a new pavement installation or wondering how long your driveway or foundation will last, understanding the lifespan of concrete is critical for making informed decisions. This guide will take you through the factors that affect concrete longevity, tips to make it last longer, and when repair or replacement becomes necessary.

By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of concrete lifespan and practical steps to protect your investment. Plus, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions to simplify your maintenance and repair efforts.

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Why Concrete Lifespan Matters for Property Owners

Concrete structures are significant investments for homes and commercial properties. A driveway, foundation, or patio made from high-performance concrete can serve your property for decades if carefully maintained. However, neglect or exposure to harsh conditions can lead to:

Premature cracks and failures.
Expensive repairs or replacement.
A decrease in property value.

Understanding what impacts the lifespan of concrete will help you make decisions that save money and preserve the integrity of your property for years to come.

Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Concrete

Several factors influence how long concrete can last. While it’s a robust material, its durability depends on proper installation, environmental conditions, and ongoing care. Here’s what to consider:

1. Climate

Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Water enters small cracks, freezes, and expands, leading to further cracking in colder regions.
Heat Exposure: Persistent sun and heat can make concrete surfaces brittle over time.
Midwest Impact: Regular cycles of freezing, thawing, and heavy rainfall common in the Midwest amplify the need for sealing and concrete drainage solutions.

2. Usage

Residential vs. Commercial Applications: Residential driveways may last longer than high-traffic commercial parking lots due to lower load stress.
Heavy Traffic & Loads: Truck deliveries or heavy machinery can accelerate wear, necessitating reinforced concrete or fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) options.

3. Maintenance

Routine sealing can extend a concrete surface’s lifespan by up to 50%.
Poor drainage systems can weaken foundations, emphasizing the need for proper installation and regular cleaning.

4. Type of Concrete

Different types of concrete have varying durability levels:

Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) and High-Performance Concrete offer higher durability and better resistance against cracking.
Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (FRC) adds strength and flexibility, making it ideal for high-stress applications.
Lightweight Concrete is less dense, which can sometimes mean shorter durability in heavy-load areas.

Properly selected and installed concrete suited for your local conditions can make all the difference in its performance.

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What Is the Average Lifespan of Concrete?

The lifespan of concrete varies based on its type, purpose, and maintenance. It’s important to consider environmental stressors and whether the concrete was installed with reinforcements or sealants tailored to the region. Here are some typical ranges:

Driveways & Sidewalks: 25–50 years with proper concrete maintenance.
Concrete Foundations: 50–100 years, assuming no water infiltration and proper installation.
Commercial Concrete Uses (e.g., parking lots): 20–30 years under high traffic.
Decorative Concrete Surfaces (e.g., patios or pool decks): 20–40 years when well-maintained.

Maximizing Concrete Lifespan

Want to ensure your pavement or foundation stands the test of time? These maintenance practices can significantly extend the longevity of your concrete:

1. Seal Regularly

For surfaces like driveways and outdoor slabs, sealing every 2-3 years can prevent water ingress, protect against freeze-thaw damage, and resist staining.
Use sealants designed for your climate, such as penetrating sealers in wet environments or freeze-thaw-resistant sealers in cold regions.

2. Watch for Drainage Issues

Poor drainage can lead to water pooling, which weakens the concrete over time. Ensure water flows away from the concrete surface using proper grading and downspouts.

3. Repair Cracks Early

Filling minor cracks and scheduling regular concrete repairs stops them from spreading and causing structural damage.

4. Clean Regularly

Keep surfaces free of debris and chemicals that can weaken concrete, such as deicing salts.
Power washing once a year (at a safe PSI) helps prevent buildup and corrosion.

5. Reinforce Wisely

Fiber-reinforced concrete and rebar reinforcements add strength, especially for commercial or heavy-load areas.

6. Avoid Heavy Impacts

Avoid allowing heavy trucks or machinery on driveways not designed for such weights to prevent premature wear.

When to Replace Concrete

Even with the best care, concrete has a finite lifespan. Here are signs it’s time to replace it:

Multiple or deep cracks that compromise the structure’s integrity.
Uneven surfaces that could pose a safety hazard.
Eroded or crumbling edges.
Persistent drainage or water pooling issues.
Repairs exceeding 50% of the replacement cost.

For reference, the cost of repairing concrete ranges from $3 to $8 per square foot, while replacement costs range between $5 and $10 per square foot.

FAQs About Concrete Lifespan and Maintenance

How often should I seal my concrete driveway?

Generally, every 2-3 years. If you notice wear on the sealant or live in harsh climates, seal more frequently.

What are the signs of concrete damage that require immediate attention?

Deep cracks, uneven settling, water pooling, crumbling edges, or exposed reinforcements.

Can weather conditions affect the lifespan of my concrete surfaces?

Yes. Freeze-thaw cycles, excessive heat, and exposure to moisture can reduce durability if neglected.

Is it better to repair or replace damaged concrete?

If repairs cost more than 50% of the replacement cost or the structure’s integrity is compromised, replacement is likely better.

Does ready mix concrete last longer than traditional concrete?

Yes, RMC often contains additives and is mixed under controlled conditions, improving its durability and lifespan.

How does concrete reinforcement affect its lifespan?

Reinforcements like fiber and rebar significantly extend lifespan by adding strength, flexibility, and resistance to stress and cracking.

Prolonging the Life of Your Concrete

Concrete can last decades, but its durability depends on thoughtful planning, high-quality materials, and ongoing maintenance. Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy loads, and neglect can all shorten its lifespan, but proactive measures like regular sealing, cleaning, and timely repair can add years to your investment.

If you’re looking to maximize the lifespan of your concrete through expert pavement installation, concrete repair, or reinforced concrete solutions, contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete today. Our team specializes in using durable concrete options tailored to your specific needs and environment.

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A Fundamental Comparison of Concrete and Asphalt Pavement

Posted on August 29, 2022 by admin

When it comes time to choose between two of the most popular and constructive paving materials for your property, understanding their differences, advantages, and disadvantages is a wise step toward making the best investment decision. Continue reading to learn what makes asphalt difference from concrete, as well as some of the most common pros and cons of each paving material.

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Asphalt and Concrete

Asphalt, also known as bitumen, is a dark bituminous pitch made from a combination of binder (usually refined liquid petroleum), filler, and aggregates like sand, gravel, stones, and grit. It is essentially crushed rock that has been heated and then cured into a hard, flat finish. Once cured, it is sealed with a seal coat, making it a non-permeable pavement that retains flexibility in order to withstand changing weather conditions and more.

Concrete is a man-made material prepared from cement, as well as certain aggregates like sand and gravel. It is a porous pavement, making it highly vulnerable to water permeation. After water enters the pores of the concrete, it will freeze and thaw with the changing seasons, which will cause cracks and other defects to surface in the following years.

Pros and Cons of Both

Take a look at some of the most common advantages and disadvantages of asphalt and concrete. This will give you an idea of what to expect, and perhaps help you make a wise buying decision. If you still have questions and concerns, your best course of action would be to talk to a licensed, bonded, and insured paving company for answers and advice you can trust.

Pros and Cons of Asphalt

Asphalt is easy to repair, cheaper to purchase, quicker to install (which also means cheaper labor costs) and is much better for the environment. It is widely noted for its sleek, smooth finishes and uniform appearances. On the other hand, asphalt has a lower lifespan than concrete. It is also less durable, requires ongoing maintenance, and can even soften in extreme heat conditions.

Pros and Cons of Concrete

Concrete is highly versatile and can be finished in an infinite array of colors, stains, scores, styles, and designs. It can even be made to imitate higher end materials, like brick, tile, and cobblestone. Compared to asphalt, it is more durable, can withstand extreme heat, and lasts much longer. However, concrete is more expensive to install and more difficult to repair. It is also prone to cracking in seasonal temperature fluctuations (freeze thaw cycles).

Do you have questions about your commercial paving needs? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for licensed, bonded, and insured pavement installation and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Facts About Combination Pavements

Posted on February 12, 2021 by admin

You know there are asphalt pavements, and you know there are concrete pavements. But did you know that you can combine asphalt and concrete to make a new material and new benefits? It’s true. Continue below to learn more about mixing concrete and asphalt together, including its benefits and common applications. If you are looking for commercial pavement work in Indianapolis, Indiana, refer to the bottom of the blog for information on who to trust for superior paving.

Why Mix Asphalt and Concrete Together?

↪ Roads and Streets

A wonderful and beneficial application for concrete and asphalt is road paving. Since asphalt roads are generally damaged by heavier traffic, resulting in alligator cracking, crumbling, unleveled roads, and more. This can pose a huge problem for smaller vehicles because poorly-kept pavement is damaging to smaller vehicles. To thwart this deterioration of asphalt pavement, concrete road enforcers or reinforcement pads can be installed prior to laying asphalt. This adds more strength and durability to the pavement allowing all sorts of traffic support.

↪ Road Protectors and Walkways

Another way concrete and asphalt can be mixed is in a way that is all too common to us pedestrians and drivers. We are talking about curbs, sidewalks, and speed bumps. All these items are generally crafted using concrete materials. They are road protectors, enforcers of safety, and more. Not only are curbs used to protect the base of an asphalt road, but they are also used as water protection as well. If water seeps into the base of asphalt, it can cause significant damage and deterioration. Curbs block this type of water seepage. Sidewalks on the other hand protect pedestrians from drivers on the road. Not an exact match to the topic but still equally important nonetheless!

↪ Foundation Build Ups

Using concrete for the base of asphalt lays have boundless rewards. Paving contractors can opt for pure concrete bases or custom asphalt-concrete mixes. This combination has proven it provides added support and durability for heavy traffic at a reasonable cost.

↪ Road Safety and Performance

Overall, combining concrete and asphalt promotes better roadways and safer driving conditions. It also saves a city money on road repairs and overhauls as well. No one wants extra construction zones in their neck of the woods, and combination paving can prevent this for you!

Commercial Asphalt and Concrete Paving in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. at 317-549-1833 to learn how our licensed, bonded, and insured Indiana commercial pavement contractors can help you meet your asphalt and concrete paving objectives for your business or property. Our commercial paving contractors offer comprehensive pavement work for businesses, industrial complexes, and local municipalities, including repairs, sealcoating, overlays, pothole repair winter cold patching, crack filling, and much more. Request a free estimate, anytime.

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Do I Need a Concrete Sealcoat for My Lot?

Posted on August 12, 2020 by admin

Concrete is a widely used pavement made from combining several natural materials, such as lime cement, gravel, sand, and water. It is a man-made, permeable material used in the construction industry all across the world. As a permeable pavement, concrete is vulnerable to cracking, weather damage, atrophy, and more. Because of its porous characteristics, concrete must be protected. This is where concrete sealers come in handy.

Continue reading to learn about all the benefits associated with using concrete sealers and seal coating.

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Concrete is a Porous Pavement Material

Concrete is porous, as mentioned before. It has several inner channels and tubes that allow water and moisture to pass through. When this liquid freezes and thaws, it creates large gaps and crevices in concrete pavement. Water flow within these inner channels can also cause concrete to deteriorate over time. In order to thwart water seepage in concrete, it is necessary to seal it properly. Concrete sealers do just that!

Seal coating is a process of pavement protection that can more than double the life of concrete. It drastically reduces salt damage, wear and tear caused from traffic, and protects against natural elements like harsh weather and wildlife. It can even prevent dingy smells and musty odors! They strengthen and reinforce pavement so it can last longer and require less maintenance. It reduces cracking, crumbling, breakage, splitting, dusting, fading, and more. The most common residential and commercial uses for paving sealants is for driveways, parking lots, sidewalks, basement floors, and other areas of exposed concrete.

Proper Concrete Protection is a Must

If you want concrete pavement to be impenetrable, a proper sealer must be applied. It is important to consult and outsource a professional paving contractor for accurate industry information and guidance. They retain the latest technologies, proper industry equipment, and extensive knowledge for professional concrete seal coating. Commercial properties commonly used urethane sealers, such as siloxane, siliconate, and silane. Residential properties tend to use epoxy sealers, like water-based epoxy or penetrating epoxy. These sealants provide a tougher, thicker, chemical-resistant film. Epoxy sealers are perfect for marine applications as well. No matter what sealcoating application you choose, always be sure it is safe to use and safe for the environment.

Where to Get Licensed Concrete Pavement Work in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial and industrial concrete repair and paving services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified contractors provide several paving services for both asphalt and concrete, including pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, winter cold patching, and more. We are the industry veterans to trust for skilled craftsmanship and competitive prices! Request a free estimate, today.

Can I Cover Concrete With Asphalt?

Posted on July 30, 2020 by admin

There are plenty of workable options when it comes to renovating an existing concrete foundation. But most options are not DIY friendly, leaving many busy proprietors tempted to simply cover it with freshly-paved asphalt. Is this possible? Are there risks to doing so? Continue reading to learn what to expect if you decide to pave over concrete with asphalt, including the common side effects that might arise.

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Is it Possible to Pave Over Concrete With Asphalt?

Yes, it is possible to pave over concrete with asphalt. As it turns out, concrete is a suitable base material, and will provide a stable and strong foundation for additional layers of building materials or structures. As for asphalt, a concrete base provides the perfect conditions for excellent asphalt compaction, which is important for ultimate pavement function, appeal, and longevity.

However, there are certain factors that you should consider before moving forward with your pavement overlay. Here are a few likely scenarios:

▶ Unstable Soil – If the concrete was not originally paved over stable soil, the unstable soil conditions will likely impact any new layers of pavement poured on top, whether asphalt or more concrete. Slabs will pivot at their expansion joints, and eventually move with traffic, causing heaves, depressions, cracks, and more; quite a bumpy ride, needless to say.

▶ Expansion Joints – On the topic of concrete expansion joints, they have the tendency to shift overtime. When this happens, cracks can form in the concrete base, and anywhere there is a crack in the concrete base, a crack will form in the same place in the asphalt. This is known as reflective cracking.

▶ Fatigued Cracking – A scattered series of interconnected crack lines in pavement is called fatigued cracking. The structural failure of an HMA (hot asphalt mix) surface or stabilized base is generally caused by repetitive loading and heavy traffic. Overall, inadequate structural support is the common cause of fatigued cracking.

Trust a Professional Asphalt and Concrete Contractor for Advice

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete Inc. at 317-549-1833 for commercial and large-scale asphalt and concrete paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner Lindsey Lewis, and his team of licensed and insured pavers, provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete paving services for commercial, industrial, and municipal properties. Request a free estimate, today.

4 Types of Concrete Water Stops and What They Do

Posted on May 18, 2020 by admin

Waterstops are embedded into, and continuously run through, concrete structures or slabs for the purpose of preventing water and other fluids from passing through. There are two main categories for concrete waterstops. The first includes waterstops for concrete joints in which the adjoint concrete sections do not move, while the second category includes waterstops for concrete joints in which the adjoint concrete sections do experience movement.

From there, more types of waterstops exist. Continue reading to learn the top 4 most common concrete waterstops.

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Extruded Plastic Waterstops

Extruded plastics and thermosets, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or thermoplastic vulcanized rubber (TPV), are common materials used to manufacture concrete waterstops. Other rubbers used to make waterstops include neoprene, styrene-butadiene, and even natural rubber.

Metal Waterstops

Metal waterstops come in coils as large as 50 m, and usually between 1.0 to 1.5 mm in thickness and 250 to 300 mm in width. Some metal waterstops are coated with polymeric or hydrophilic materials, or both in some cases. Such coatings form a tighter bond with concrete, and therefore, a second barrier against fluids.

Hydrophobic Polymer Waterstops

Hydrophobic polymer waterstops are made from the same kinds of extruded plastics mentioned before, like PVC and TPV. These kinds of waterstops are meant to do two jobs at once: allow direct interlocking into concrete, and prevent movement at the joints. They are generally applied to joints in secondary containment structures to prevent toxic or hazardous fluids from passing through.

Hydrophilic Waterstops

Also known as “water-loving” waterstops, hydrophilic waterstops are rubber strips that are enhanced with hydrophilic agents like bentonite. This modification causes the waterstops to swell when exposed to moisture or fluids. As a result, concrete joints are better sealed against leakage. However, such waterstops are not used in joints that move, such as expansion and contraction joints.

Commercial Concrete Contractors in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial concrete services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide several Indianapolis concrete paving services, including pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, winter cold patching, and more. We are the industry veterans to trust for skilled craftsmanship and competitive prices! Request a free estimate, today.

Why Pothole Repair Should Be at the Top of Your Priority List

Posted on March 31, 2020 by admin

Although spring has had a strong start this year, allowing us to enjoy brighter, greener days, those damaging potholes left over from winter are still depriving drivers of a safe and comfortable commute. It is vital to repair potholes as soon as they form, and even prior to forming. Not only does pothole repair support safety, function, and convenience, it also supports economic growth, cost-savings, and investment protection.

Continue reading to learn why you, as a commercial or municipal proprietor, should outsource professional pothole repair service as soon as your pavements begin to show signs of cracking and deterioration.

Indianapolis Pothole Repair 317-549-1833

The Importance of Pothole Repair

Potholes are arguably one of the biggest issues in metropolitan areas among commuters. To make matters more serious, potholes get worse as time goes on. So, if a pothole is not repaired, it will only continue to get bigger, and eventually it will evolve into a massive crumbling hole. Potholes are created by excess moisture in asphalt and concrete pavements. This is usually a result of snow, ice, and rain.

Porous pavements, like concrete, lose their protective coating after a few years as a result of natural wear and tear. The same can happen to asphalt paving as well. When this happens, they become vulnerable to water accumulation in their pores. Accumulated water then freezes and thaws from season to season, causing pavement to deteriorate from within. This leads to pavement cracks, fractures, fissures, and more.

Pothole Repair

As soon as you see signs of pothole formation, it is important to have your pavements inspected and serviced to inhibit further damage and deterioration. From there, is it essential to protect your pavements from damage with regular cleaning, maintenance, and most importantly, sealcoating. See our blog, “Frequently Asked Questions about Sealcoating” to learn what you need to know about protecting your pavements. The most common signs that suggest your pavements will soon form potholes are water retention and puddling, cracking, crumbling pavement, loose gravel, and lack of seal coat.

The process of repairing and patching up potholes can differ slightly depending on certain variables, such as the condition of the pavement, the type of pavement, extent of damage, and more. For most paving repair projects, the process involves a general pattern of steps. A paving company will always start with a full inspection of the damaged pavement to provide an accurate assessment. This allows them to then plan the pothole patching process according to your property’s unique needs.

Commercial Pothole Repair Services in Indianapolis

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional pothole repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed road construction contractors provide a wide range of asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial properties, including inspections, installation, replacement, repair, and more. We also offer free estimates and consultations, flexible scheduling, references upon request, and more. Best of all, our work is backed by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, so you can rest assure that your investment is sound. Request a free quote, today.

How to Clean Moldy Concrete

Posted on December 27, 2018 by admin

Many people do not think about mold and mildew growing on foundations made from concrete or cement; however, if the conditions are just right, this type of growth can occur. Not only can mold, mildew, and fungus grow within the pores and on the surfaces of concrete foundations, staining is a probable result as well.

Mold and mildew can cause health problems, respiratory complications, and slippery surfaces. This can be dangerous to residents, guests, customers, visitors, and all other persons inhabiting the infected area. These reasons and more are why mold removal for concrete is so vital. Getting rid of mold growth encourages a healthier environment and a more durable foundation.

Continue reading to learn more about mold growth, including how to effectively eliminate it from concrete sidewalks, driveways, and more!

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What Causes Mold?

Mold, mildew, and fungus grow in the presence of two principle variables: moisture and a food source. In most cases, these food sources are dirt and dust. Concrete is not capable of fungal growth on its own, but in the perfect conditions of humidity, moisture, and a present food source, mold can quickly grow and thrive for quite some time.

Prolonged weather conditions, water leaks, flooding, and poor insulation can create an environment for concrete mold growth. The combination of moisture and humidity, along with a viable food source, is the perfect formula to house mold and mildew.

Also, concrete is a porous pavement, meaning it has several pores and channels running within it. These pores and microscopic crevices are perfect incubators for fungal growth too. So as mentioned before, given the right conditions, mold can easily grow within and on concrete.

Some conditions are created on a temporary basis, like humid and wet weather mixed with dirt and dust, while others may be an interior issue that requires some extensive renovation or repair.

Cleaning Moldy Concrete

Finding the root of mold growth is the first step in removing it. If the fungus is a result of a larger underlying problem like interior water leaks, then it is vital to correct this issue first, in order to acquire long term mold removal and control. Since concrete is very durable, removing mold is fairly simple and the process is quite easy. Once the mold is removed, it is helpful to keep concrete surfaces that are more susceptible to fungal growth, clean and dust-free.

Here’s how to combat mold and mildew on concrete foundations:

⇒ Purchase an OTC Fungicide or Mold-Killing Detergent

✢ These products can be purchased at any local hardware or home improvement center. You may even find them at your local grocer or superstore. Be sure to choose a higher-end product for optimal results. For a homemade solution, simply mix household bleach and water together, using equal parts.

⇒ Allow the Solution to Set in For Some Time

✢ Apply the solution liberally to the infected areas and allow it to sit for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the extent of fungal growth. The next step involves scrubbing, but should then be followed with a second application, setting, and scrubbing once again.

⇒ Use Elbow-Grease to Scrub the Fungus Away

✢ It really takes a lot of scrubbing and elbow grease to scrub the mold away. This job is great for the man of the house. Once the solution is applied liberally to the infected areas, use abundant force to scrub and rub away the fungal growth and stains. Rinse the area thoroughly, and repeat the last two steps until you achieve desirable results.

When You Need Concrete Replacement

Call ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for commercial and industrial paving services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and qualified paving contractors provide several Indianapolis asphalt and concrete paving services, including pavement repair, sealcoating, road work, commercial paving, industrial paving, and more. Request a free estimate, today!