How Long Does Concrete Last?
Concrete is a vital building material that is used in a wide range of applications and structures across the country.
You’ll seldom even visit a location that doesn’t have some kind of concrete in place, so it’s clear to see why it is such an essential material.
With this in mind, whether you’re working in a domestic or commercial environment, it’s important that you always use a concrete mix that you can rely on. This includes concrete that offers excellent longevity, is of a high quality and can last for years to come.
Here at Concrete Supply UK, we have spent many years supplying and delivering bespoke concrete mixes to customers across the UK.
As well as always ensuring our clients have the perfect mix for their unique project, we’ll also guarantee that the most suitable quantities are always delivered so you never over or under-order.
In this article, we’ll explain how long concrete lasts and the factors that impact its longevity. – Read on to find out more.
How long does concrete last?
Typically, you can expect high-quality concrete to last between 50 – 100 years.
It’s this significant longevity and the overall concrete lifespan that makes it such a popular material alongside its fantastic durability and resilience.
This range will vary depending on a whole host of factors including the quality of the concrete that is being used. This is why it’s always recommended to select a mix that is of the highest possible quality and one that is most suitable for you and your needs.
At Concrete Supply UK, we will always take the time to discuss our services with our customers, ensuring we have a thorough understanding of their needs before delivering the most appropriate product.
As well as the quality of the concrete, different applications may also impact how long the concrete lasts.
Usually, this will depend on the amount of foot traffic that it experiences.
Let’s take a look at the average lifespan of some of the most common concrete applications:
- Pavement- 20-40 years
- Patios – 30 years
- Driveways – 40 years
- Buildings – 50 – 100 years
Factors that impact concrete lifespan
There is a wide range of factors that influence how long a concrete lasts.
This includes:
Concrete mix design
Different concrete mixes offer different levels of durability, strength, density, appearance and weather resistance.
As well as this, the quality of the cement, and other materials, that are used in the concrete mix design will also impact how long the concrete lasts.
Some mixes may also include reinforcements, such as steel or fibres, that are designed specifically to increase the strength and longevity of the concrete, but the best way to ensure you have a mix that will stand the test of time is to discuss your needs directly with your concrete supplier.
Weather conditions
While most concrete is fairly weather-resistant and good at coping with adverse conditions that the UK sends its way, the weather can play a role in how long concrete lasts.
For example, concrete that is inside (such as concrete floors) will likely last longer than concrete that is outside, such as pavements or driveways, which are hit by rain on a regular basis.
The quality of the sub-base
Another factor that will influence how long concrete lasts is the quality of the sub-base.
For almost every project, a suitable sub-base is required which the concrete will be poured on top of. If this sub-base is not up to scratch, then it can be detrimental to the concrete and how long it lasts.
To offer suitable support, it’s important that the sub-base is made up of properly compacted stone or gravel that creates a consistent and uniform base for the concrete to be poured on.
If the sub-base is of low quality, then erosion, cracking and improper slab settlement are more likely to occur which can cause the lifespan of the concrete to be reduced.
Curing
Curing is one of the most important processes when handling concrete.
In short, it is the process of allowing suitable conditions to take place in order to allow the necessary hydration to develop the concrete’s desired properties. While the curing process never technically stops, on average concrete should be allowed to cure for 28 days in order for the concrete to meet your needs.
With this in mind, if the concrete is not allowed the time to properly cure then the longevity may be impacted.
Signs of concrete deterioration
No matter how long your concrete is, there are a few common signs that you should keep an eye out for that indicate that deterioration has set in.
This includes the following:
- Cracking
- Spalling
- Leaking
- Excessive wear
- Settlement
- Scaling
- Disintegration
- Crumbling
If you notice any of the above symptoms in your concrete, it may be a sign that deterioration has set in and you should seek professional advice.
Ways to extend concrete lifespan
If you’re looking for ways to extend the lifespan of your concrete, there are a number of things you can do.
This includes:
Keeping concrete clean: Regularly washing concrete applications with a hose or jet wash can help keep in the best condition.
Reapply protective coating: Applying a sealer every two to three years can help enhance the durability, and lifespan, of your concrete application.
Avoid harsh chemicals: If you use cleaning materials that include chemicals such as sulphates, ammonia, it can damage the concrete.
Remove unwanted plants and weeds: The roots of plants, weeds or trees in the nearby area can damage concrete by growing underneath structures and causing harm. With this in mind, it’s worth removing any plants that are not needed.
Cover concrete: As mentioned above, concrete applications will last longer if they are not being impacted by adverse weather. Therefore, it’s worth covering concrete where possible.
At Concrete Supply UK, we’re experts in all kinds of concrete products and are home to a vast portfolio of different types of concrete, including readymix and volumetric. To find out more, or to discuss your requirements with our friendly and knowledgeable team, contact our expert team today.
