Bentley Park Concrete Driveways

In most cases we can improve it a great deal. Black and green staining on concrete in Cairns is usually mould, algae or lichen growing in shaded, damp areas, and it thrives in the humidity of the wet season. A thorough clean with suitable equipment and treatments can remove most of the growth. Sealing the surface afterwards helps slow how quickly it returns and makes future cleaning easier. Trimming back plants and improving drainage in the affected areas also helps. Very old or porous concrete may never look brand new again, but most owners are pleased with the difference a clean and seal makes.

We start by looking at where the water comes from, including the slope above your block, your roof and neighbouring properties, and where it currently goes. Then we design the new concrete to manage that flow, using falls that direct water away from the house, grated channel drains across driveways where needed and edges that guide water to a suitable discharge point. On steeper blocks, retaining walls may need drainage behind them too. Stormwater connections need to suit your property and any council requirements, so we talk through the options with you and suggest checking with Cairns Regional Council where needed.

Concrete gains strength over time, so it is a matter of easing into it. Foot traffic is usually fine after a day or two, but we suggest keeping bikes, scooters and pets off until we say the surface is ready. Cars need longer, and heavier vehicles such as caravans, trailers or delivery trucks longer still. We give you specific timeframes for your job, as they depend on the mix, thickness and weather. In hot conditions we take steps to cure the concrete properly in the early days, which helps it reach its strength and reduces the risk of cracking.

Yes. A new patio can be designed to blend with the existing house and driveway. We look at the colours of your brick or render, the roofline and any existing paving, and suggest finishes that complement them. Plain concrete with a neat broomed or honed finish suits most homes, while coloured concrete or exposed aggregate can tie the patio in with a driveway. Levels matter too, so we set the slab to step down from the house where needed and fall away from it. If you are adding a roof over the patio, check whether building approval is needed first.