The right winter concrete maintenance can make all the difference in the world to your concrete surfaces. This harsh season can cause damage to concrete in many ways, but damage doesn’t have to be seen as inevitable. It is avoidable with proper maintenance. Taking a few simple steps can extend the life of your concrete and save a bundle on concrete repairs.
What steps are important? Here’s how to care for your concrete in winter:
- Seal it: If your concrete has open pores or cracks, moisture can seep into the surface. During the winter, this water freezes and thaws as the temperatures fluctuate. This causes the moisture to expand and contract, which creates or enlarges cracks in the concrete. To prevent this, ask a local concrete contractor to seal the concrete and prevent moisture penetration.
- Plow it: The longer amount of time a layer of snow or ice sits on your concrete, the more chance it has of causing cracks during repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Be sure to shovel or plow your concrete as soon as possible after each snowfall.
- Sand it: If you experience icy or snowy conditions, do not use chemical deicers to clear your concrete. These chemical products are very harsh on concrete. For proper winter concrete maintenance, use sand instead of salt or chemical deicers. This gritty material will provide the traction you desire without damaging the surface.
- Sweep it: If you must use a chemical product or salt on your concrete surface, sweep it up as soon as it has cleared the path of ice. This will protect the concrete from the damage the chemicals can cause. As a bonus, it will prevent tracking the pellets into your home or business from the patio and walkways.
- Direct it: Arrange your drainage downspouts strategically. Position the drains so that any ice and snow that melts off the roof is directed away from concrete and away from the property’s foundation. This will minimize the amount of moisture that can seep into the concrete and cause damage.
- Clear it: If possible, try to avoid parking vehicles on the concrete during winter. Cars pick up salt on the roads, then track it onto the concrete, where it can cause damage. Additionally, it is best to avoid placing heavy objects on newer concrete. If you have recently poured your driveway, try to avoid parking cars there until it’s had time to fully cure.
- Question it: If you’re not sure how to care for your concrete in the winter, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local concrete contractor with questions. Rather than risk causing damage to your concrete, consult with a contractor before you complete any winter concrete maintenance. These experts can help you avoid damage and keep your surface in top condition year after year.
Learn more about winter concrete maintenance
The team at Bri-Mic Construction specializes in full-service concrete work for residential and commercial properties. If you have any questions about winter concrete maintenance, reach out to our experts. We are ready to help you with projects big and small. Contact us today at 716-337-0500.