Concrete is a durable material that can last for decades if properly cared for. But how long exactly will concrete last before needing to be replaced? This depends on several factors such as the quality of the concrete, the environment it’s in, and the care it’s given over time.

The good news is that concrete can last an incredibly long time when done right. In ideal conditions, the average lifespan of concrete is around 100 years or more. Unsealed and untreated concrete exposed to weather could see its life expectancy reduced to as little as 25 years, however.

To ensure your concrete lasts for its maximal lifetime, you must protect it from nature and damage through regular maintenance. For starters, applying cement sealer or a waterproof coating of some kind can add an extra layer of protection against water intrusion and freeze-thaw cycles common in colder climates. Sealing also helps reduce dusting and spalling (the flaking off of surface particles).

 Furthermore, be sure not to store chemicals like gasoline near the surface of your concrete where they could seep into moisture cracks and weaken it over time – these corrosive agents break down any protective film that may exist on your material surfaces.

In addition to sealing and protecting your surfaces from corrosive materials, regular cleaning with a low-pressure power washer and soft brush should also help extend the life expectancy of your concrete’s life further; this removes dirt build-up from sandstorms or other environmental pollutants which otherwise could have caused discoloration or crumbling over time.

Regularly inspecting your property for signs of deterioration or wear similarly adds longevity to your concrete structures. Check for areas where water pools or drains away faulty – re-leveling those sections could prevent future deterioration from happening quickly due to poor drainage/runoff problems in those locations. Similarly, if there are any visible cracks developing in your structure then fill them with coarse sand and sealant immediately so you don’t compromise its strength any further!

Overall, with proper care and maintenance, quality plain gray (unsealed) poured-in-place concrete should easily remain usable for upwards of 50+ years without repair under normal traffic conditions – if treated right then expect even longer lifespans out of this sturdy material!