7 Smart Summer Tips to Keep Your Grand Rapids Concrete Driveway in Great Shape

Summer’s finally here—which means it’s time for BBQs, road trips, and long nights under the stars. But it’s also the perfect season to show your concrete driveway a little TLC.

In a place like Grand Rapids, where winters are tough and summers bring their own challenges, staying ahead of maintenance can make all the difference. From high temps to humidity and pop-up storms, your driveway takes a beating. Here are seven simple but effective ways to keep it strong, safe, and looking sharp all season long.

1. Keep It Clean—And Keep It Consistent

Dirt, leaves, oil stains—you name it, summer seems to amplify everything. Heat can push grime deeper into your driveway’s surface, making stains harder to remove over time.

Here’s a good rhythm: 

• Give it a power wash every few weeks.
• For stubborn spots, try a degreaser made for concrete—or good ol’ baking soda and water.
• Stay on a regular schedule so buildup doesn’t get the upper hand.

A clean driveway just looks better—and it helps avoid long-term discoloration and damage.

2. Catch Cracks Early

Those tiny cracks that pop up? Don’t ignore them. The sun can expand them fast, especially when moisture gets in and temps swing.

What works: 

• Inspect the surface every few weeks.
• Use a DIY crack filler for hairline gaps.
• Bigger issues? Better to bring in a pro to make sure everything’s solid.

Fixing small things early prevents bigger headaches (and bigger bills) later.

3. Seal It Up

Think of a good concrete sealer like sunscreen for your driveway—it keeps out water, sun damage, and dirt.

What helps: 

• Reseal every couple of years (two to three is a solid rule).
• Dry, warm weather is ideal for curing, so summer’s your best bet.
• Choose a heavy-duty, high-quality sealer that’s made for driveways, not sidewalks.

This step adds years to your driveway’s lifespan and helps it resist the elements.

4. Don’t Let Weeds Win

Weeds or grass poking through cracks? It’s not just annoying—it can lead to more cracking and even structural damage over time.

Try this: 

• Yank out weeds from the root.
• Spray a concrete-safe weed killer.
• Once cleared, fill cracks or apply a barrier to block regrowth.

A little effort here keeps the surface smooth and intact.

5. Watch the Heavyweights

Concrete's tough, sure—but not invincible. Summer heat can soften it slightly, making it more vulnerable to heavy loads.

Here’s the deal: 

• Avoid parking RVs, trailers, or heavy trucks in the same spot for long.
• Mix things up—rotate where you park.
• Even distribution of weight goes a long way in preventing cracks or settling.

6. Keep Water Flowing Away

Those quick summer storms can leave standing water if your drainage isn’t dialed in—and pooling water is concrete’s worst enemy.

Quick fixes: 

• Add downspout extensions to redirect runoff.
• Check slopes and grading to be sure water moves away from your driveway.
• Fill in low areas where water tends to gather.

Managing drainage helps avoid erosion and maintains the integrity of the surface.

7. Get a Pro to Take a Look

Even if your driveway looks fine, a professional inspection can reveal early signs of wear you might miss—like pitting, spalling, or settling.

Why it’s worth it: 

• Pros know what to look for and can offer specific fixes.
• Early detection often means cheaper, quicker repairs.
• Summer’s the perfect time—it’s dry, and repairs can be made without weather delays.



An expert eye now can save you major repairs later.

Keep It Looking Sharp, All Year Long

A little summer upkeep goes a long way—not just for durability, but also for curb appeal. In Grand Rapids, where weather can be all over the map, staying proactive is key. These steps aren’t hard, but they make a huge difference in how your driveway performs and how your home looks.

Thinking about a deeper fix or need help getting started? The crew at Grand Rapids Concrete Pros has you covered with inspections, repairs, sealing—you name it. Call us today and let your driveway shine this summer!