If you are a homeowner in Illinois thinking about replacing or installing a new concrete driveway or patio, one of the first questions you probably have is simple
How long will it last?
With Illinois weather, freeze thaw cycles, heavy snow, road salt, and hot summers, concrete durability matters more here than almost anywhere else in the Midwest.
At Fortis Paving, we work with residential concrete every day across the Chicago suburbs and beyond. Here is what you can realistically expect and how to make your concrete last as long as possible.
Average Lifespan of Concrete in Illinois
In general, a properly installed concrete driveway or patio in Illinois can last
25 to 35 years
That number depends heavily on
• Quality of installation
• Base preparation and drainage
• Thickness of the slab
• Exposure to winter salts and plows
• Ongoing maintenance and sealing
Well built concrete with good maintenance often exceeds 30 years even in harsh Midwest climates.
Poor installation or no maintenance can shorten that lifespan to 10 to 15 years.
What Shortens the Life of Concrete in Illinois
Illinois is one of the toughest states on concrete.
The biggest enemies are
Freeze and thaw cycle: Water enters small cracks and pores in the concrete. When it freezes, it expands and slowly breaks the surface apart. This leads to cracking, scaling, and flaking.
Road salt and deicers: Salt speeds up surface deterioration and causes scaling and pitting over time, especially on driveways and front walkways.
Heavy vehicles: Garbage trucks, delivery trucks, and repeated heavy loads can cause cracking or settling if the base is not properly prepared.
Poor drainage: Standing water under or around concrete causes erosion and slab movement which leads to sinking and uneven surfaces.
How to Make Your Concrete Driveway or Patio Last Longer
This is where maintenance makes a massive difference.
Concrete does not need constant attention, but it does need protection.
1. Keep the Surface Clean
Dirt, mildew, algae, and salt residue slowly break down the surface of concrete.
Annual professional power washing removes
• Built up salt from winter
• Organic growth
• Surface stains
• Embedded debris
This restores appearance and prevents long term surface damage.
Fortis Surface Saver Program
At Fortis Paving, we created our Surface Saver Power Wash and Reseal Program specifically for Illinois homes.
This service is designed to protect your concrete before damage becomes expensive.
What Surface Saver Includes
• Professional power washing to remove salt, grime, and buildup
• Crack and joint inspection
• High quality concrete sealer application
• Moisture and freeze protection
Why Resealing Matters in Illinois
Concrete is naturally porous. Without sealer, water and salt penetrate the surface every winter.
A fresh sealer layer
• Blocks moisture from entering the slab
• Reduces salt damage and scaling
• Prevents surface flaking
• Enhances color and appearance
• Extends lifespan by 10 to 15 years
Most residential concrete in Illinois should be resealed every 2 to 3 years depending on exposure and traffic.
Signs Your Concrete Needs Surface Saver Treatment
If you notice any of the following, it is time for maintenance
• White powder or residue on the surface
• Flaking or rough texture
• Fading color
• Small hairline cracks forming
• Water soaking in instead of beading on top
Early treatment prevents major repairs later.
How Long Will Your Concrete Last With Proper Care
With professional installation and routine maintenance
• Driveways often last 30 to 40 years
• Patios and walkways often last 35 to 40 years
Surface Saver maintenance can add 10 to 15 extra years of life to your concrete investment.
Serving Homeowners Across the Chicago Suburbs and Beyond
Fortis Paving provides residential concrete services throughout the Chicago suburbs and surrounding communities.
From new concrete driveways and patios to power washing and resealing, we help protect your home from Illinois weather year after year.
Schedule Your Surface Saver Service
If your driveway or patio has been through a few Illinois winters, now is the perfect time to protect it.
Contact Fortis Paving today to schedule your Surface Saver Power Wash and Reseal Service and extend the life of your concrete for years to come.
