Protect the finished driveway
Simple routine care can help a driveway keep its appearance and can reveal small problems before they become more disruptive.
Maintenance by surface
| Surface | Routine care | What to watch |
|---|---|---|
| Block paving | Sweep regularly; top up jointing sand after cleaning. | Watch for movement, weeds caused by debris in joints and loss of edge restraint. |
| Resin bound | Sweep and gently wash; clean spills promptly. | Avoid harsh methods or products that damage the resin system. |
| Tarmac | Keep clean and deal with oil/fuel spills quickly. | Investigate cracking, edge breakdown or depressions before water worsens them. |
| Gravel | Rake redistributed stone and top up when necessary. | Keep edges contained and prevent soil/organic matter building into the surface. |
| Concrete | Keep drainage paths clear and inspect joints/cracks. | Use compatible repair and sealing products for the specific finish. |
| Porcelain | Sweep and wash with products suitable for porcelain and jointing. | Avoid aggressive cleaning that damages joints or creates slip issues. |
| Natural stone | Use stone-compatible cleaners and inspect jointing. | Check product guidance before sealing because stone types behave differently. |
Drainage maintenance matters too
Keep channel grates, outlets and obvious drainage routes clear of leaves, silt and debris. Water repeatedly flowing where it should not can undermine edges, carry jointing material away or expose a more fundamental levels problem.