Durack Concrete Driveways

Pouring a full new slab straight over an old driveway is not usually recommended. It raises levels at the garage door and the crossover, can upset drainage, and any movement or cracking in the old slab tends to carry through to the new one. A thin resurfacing overlay is a different product and can work well on a sound, stable slab where you mainly want a new look. For a driveway that has sunk or broken up, we generally recommend breaking out the old concrete, fixing the base and starting again. We will tell you honestly which approach suits your driveway.

Work on the section between your property boundary and the road is generally a council matter, so it is worth checking with the City of Palmerston before work begins. Requirements can cover the width and location of the crossover, how it meets the kerb and footpath, and construction details. Rules and processes can change, so we always suggest confirming directly rather than relying on what a neighbour did years ago. We are happy to provide a written scope and a simple sketch of the proposed work to help with that conversation, and we will not touch the crossover until you are clear to proceed.

In Top End humidity, mould, mildew and algae grow readily on concrete that stays shaded or damp, especially under established trees, beside garden beds and along side paths. Durack has plenty of mature trees, so we see this often. A thorough pressure clean usually brings the surface back, and a good sealer makes it harder for growth and stains to take hold again. Improving drainage so water does not sit on the slab, and trimming back overhanging plants so the concrete dries out between storms, also helps a lot. Resealing every few years keeps the protection working.

As a general guide, light foot traffic is usually fine after a day or two and cars after around a week, but heavier vehicles such as loaded trailers, boats or caravans should wait longer. Concrete keeps gaining strength for weeks after it is poured, so patience early on pays off. Exact timing depends on the mix, the weather and how well the slab is cured, and hot Top End conditions make curing especially important. We will give you specific advice for your job before we leave the site, and we can stage larger driveways so part of it stays usable.