When you’re laying a new driveway or concrete floor, it’s natural to wonder how soon you can start using it. At McHugh Concrete, we regularly get asked: “When can I walk or drive on fresh concrete?”
The answer depends on several factors, including weather conditions, the concrete mix and how the surface will be used. Here’s our expert guide to help you plan with confidence.
Drying vs. curing: why timing matters
It’s important to understand the difference between concrete drying and curing:
- Drying: The surface moisture evaporates, often within 24-48 hours. The concrete may look ready, but it isn’t fully strong yet
- Curing: This process (hydration) gives concrete its strength. It takes time – up to 28 days for concrete to reach its full potential
When can you walk on fresh concrete?
- Light foot traffic is usually safe after 24 hours
- For heavier use, such as garden furniture or wheelbarrows, we recommend waiting 48 hours
- During the first two days, keep pets, bicycles, and sharp objects away, as they can leave permanent marks
When can you drive on fresh concrete?
- Cars and light vehicles: Wait at least 7 days. By this point, the concrete will have reached around 70% of its full strength – enough to handle standard traffic
- Heavy vehicles, vans, lorries, or machinery: Allow a full 28 days before use. This gives the concrete time to fully cure and achieve maximum durability
Factors that affect curing time
- Weather conditions
- In warm, dry weather, concrete may set faster, but care must be taken to avoid cracking from rapid moisture loss
- In cooler or damp conditions, curing slows down – so waiting a little longer before walking or driving is wise
- In warm, dry weather, concrete may set faster, but care must be taken to avoid cracking from rapid moisture loss
- Concrete mix
- Some specialist mixes (such as high-early-strength concrete) can cure more quickly, but most standard mixes follow the 1-day/7-day/28-day rule
- Some specialist mixes (such as high-early-strength concrete) can cure more quickly, but most standard mixes follow the 1-day/7-day/28-day rule
- Surface protection
- Covering concrete with plastic sheeting or using curing compounds can help control moisture loss and ensure long-term strength.
- Covering concrete with plastic sheeting or using curing compounds can help control moisture loss and ensure long-term strength.
Quick reference: walking & driving on concrete
| Use | Safe after | Notes |
| Walking (light traffic) | 24-48 hours | Avoid dragging objects or using sharp edges. |
| Driving (cars, vans) | 7 days | Avoid edges and turning wheels sharply. |
| Heavy vehicles | 28 days | Full curing and maximum strength achieved. |
Our expert advice
Patience is the best protection for your investment. Walking or driving too early can cause cracks, surface damage, or structural weakness that shortens the life of your concrete.
At McHugh Concrete, we supply high-quality ready-mix concrete across Sussex, with reliable concrete pump hire for hard-to-reach areas. Our team is always on hand to give practical advice for your specific project. Whether you’re laying a new domestic driveway, a patio, or a large commercial floor, we’ll help you get the timing right. Need advice on your project? Contact McHugh Concrete today for expert guidance and same-day concrete delivery.
