How Long Does Concrete Last?

Concrete is made to last and, once fully cured – and as long as you got the mix right in the first place – you can expect it to be there for a very long time. 

You’ll find some people who believe that the Egyptian Pyramids were made by pouring concrete on site rather than by dragging large blocks of limestone and granite into place. Whether that is true or not is highly debatable, but the Roman Colosseum and Pantheon (completed in 80CE and 128CE respectively) do incorporate concrete very similar to the concrete we use today – and are still standing.

However, these are extreme examples. If we were to come and lay a new concrete driveway for you tomorrow, we would – for several very good reasons! – be surprised to find it still in place and usable in 2000 years’ time.

So how long can you expect concrete to last? Read on to discover more!

The average lifespan of concrete

Most concrete can expect to last for between 50 and 100 years, but there is a lot of variation here. For instance, concrete foundations would be expected to last for much longer, provided they’ve been mixed and installed correctly – whereas a concrete floor in a busy industrial setting is likely to deteriorate considerably quicker.

Factors that affect concrete lifespan

• Quality of the mix and materials – getting the right mix for the application and using high-quality materials are key elements in ensuring your concrete has the lifespan you would expect it to.
• How it is used – Concrete subject to heavy traffic, whether that’s a driveway or a factory floor, will start to deteriorate more quickly than one not experiencing the same types of stress. 
• Environmental factors – Concrete exposed to moisture could result in corrosion of any steel reinforcement, extremes of temperature could lead to cracking, and even extended dryness might mean your concrete shrinking and creating fissures. Other potential environmental factors that can cause concrete to deteriorate include saltwater and industrial emissions in the area.
• Maintenance and repair – Concrete that is well-maintained and has cracks and other defects repaired promptly will last much longer than one left to fend for itself.

Why choose Stewart Brothers for durable concrete?

Given the importance of getting the right concrete mix for your particular project, working with a reliable supplier that works to recognised quality standards is the best start for ensuring your concrete lasts for as long as you need it to.

Here at Stewart Brothers Concrete, all our concrete is BSI Kitemark and ISO 9001 quality accredited, which means you have the confidence of knowing that it will have been mixed by professionals committed to high standards.

With depots in Ashford, Sittingbourne and Dover, we deliver concrete that lasts to customers across Kent and East Sussex. Get in touch today to discuss your plans and get a competitive quote.

For more information on How Long Does Concrete Last? talk to Stewart Brothers Concrete