Concrete Care and Maintenance to Prepare for Winter Weather
Caring for your concrete patio, driveway, or sidewalk can extend its life and save money. Compared to wooden decks or stone flooring, concrete requires less maintenance and care, however, this does not mean you can ignore your concrete surfaces.
The upcoming winter weather can be harsh on your concrete and cause damage if you aren’t prepared. Here are some helpful guides to help prevent problems with your concrete so that it will continue to serve you for years to come. For cracked concrete, uneven concrete, or concrete that needs to be sealed, Valley Concrete Restoration has solutions for you. Repairing these issues before cold weather sets in.
Concrete repair and restoration is best handled by a professional with the experience and equipment needed:
Sealing the Concrete: Applying a quality concrete sealer provides a protective barrier against moisture infiltration and salt damage during winter. In the instances that you do have spills, be sure to clean those stains quickly if you want your concrete to remain fresh and good-looking.
At Valley Concrete we seal concrete with SealantPro®, a state-of-the-art material that bonds with concrete because it:
- Permanently protects concrete with just one application
- Protects and adds value to your home by extending the life of your driveway, pool deck and other concrete structures by 3-5 times
- Penetrates concrete and permanently bonds with it, protecting it from water damage and making stains easier to remove
- Can be applied on new concrete
- Costs less over time because it does not need to be reapplied
- Reduces ice bonding, making ice removal easier
- UV resistant and won’t discolor over time
Repairing Cracked Concrete and Damage: Begin by thoroughly inspecting the concrete surfaces, such as driveways, walkways, and patios, for any signs of cracks, spalling, or deterioration. Small cracks can be filled with concrete crack filler or a similar product. Larger cracks or areas with spalling may require more extensive repair work. Identify areas that need attention and call Valley Concrete to repair the damage before snow and ice set in.
Checking Drainage: Ensure that the concrete has proper drainage to prevent water from pooling on its surface. Poor drainage can lead to freeze-thaw damage as trapped water expands when frozen. Valley Concrete has all the equipment and the best technology to repair uneven concrete to fix drainage problems.
Once Valley Concrete Restoration repairs, levels, and seals your concrete, there are some steps you can take to maintain the beauty and quality of your concrete surfaces:
Clean the Surface: Remove dirt, debris, leaves, and any other contaminants from the concrete surface. Use a broom, pressure washer, or both to ensure a clean surface.
Pressure-wash or soft-wash surfaces. If your concrete surface is particularly dirty or stained, you may need to use a pressure washer to clean it. Be sure to use the appropriate pressure setting and nozzle for your hardscape to avoid causing damage. In many cases, soft washing may be enough to get the surface clean.
Trim Vegetation: Check for nearby trees and bushes that have roots growing under or near your concrete. Their root systems can cause concrete cracking and damage that will be more costly to repair if left to grow. Trim back any overhanging trees or shrubs that could potentially drop leaves, branches, or debris onto the concrete surfaces. This helps prevent additional moisture buildup and staining.
Apply Deicing Agents Sparingly: If you anticipate using de-icing agents, choose products that are safe for concrete surfaces, as some salts can cause damage. Additionally, apply these agents sparingly to reduce their potential impact.
Protect Edges: Install plastic or metal edge protectors along the sides of driveways and walkways to prevent damage from snowplows or shoveling.
Elevate or Remove Outdoor Furniture: If you have any furniture or items on the concrete surface, consider elevating them slightly to prevent moisture from getting trapped beneath them and causing damage.
Snow Removal Practices: When clearing snow from concrete surfaces, use plastic shovels or snow blowers with rubber paddles. Avoid using metal shovels or tools that could chip or scratch the concrete.
Regular Maintenance: Throughout the winter, periodically inspect the concrete for any signs of damage or deterioration. Promptly address any issues that arise to prevent them from worsening.
Remember that proper preparation and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your concrete surfaces and reduce the need for costly repairs. If you’re unsure about any specific steps or if you’re dealing with extensive damage, call Valley Concrete Restoration today. We specialize in concrete maintenance and repair.