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Yes, concrete lasts much longer than other common building materials. For example, asphalt lasts between 15 and 30 years on average, a small fraction of concrete's 50- to 100-year life span. Stone pavers on driveways and patios will last between 20 and 25 years without major repair. In other words, concrete is your best bet for long-term investment and minimal upkeep.

You should water new concrete by spraying it five to 10 times per day for the first seven days. This process of moist curing allows the concrete to become as strong as possible to prevent cracks and weak concrete. Moist-cured concrete is 50% stronger than concrete that was not sprayed with water during the first week. The only exception is if you pour concrete in the winter. Then, spraying with water is not recommended.

Concrete can take years to fully settle, but interior concrete floors are mostly settled after a year. Shifting and settling can occur throughout your home’s life, but most major settling happens the first few years after the concrete is poured. It’s not uncommon for minor cracks to appear in concrete floors over time—check with a concrete pro to ensure new cracks don’t indicate a structural issue in your home.

You will know concrete is fully cured after 28 days when the new concrete reaches its maximum strength. Follow the cure time information on the manufacturer’s label or ask your concrete pro about when your concrete is fully cured. You can drive your concrete once it’s partially cured, usually around seven days after it’s poured. After one week, the concrete is strong enough to hold up to regular-size vehicles.