How to Prepare and Preserve your Concrete this Winter
Cold Weather Concrete Tips
Wisconsin is often favored for its four seasons, though the length and severity of winter is not always so advantageous. The harsh and fluctuating temperatures not only affects us, it can distress our concrete. In just one winter, visible wear and tear on concrete starts to occur. Prevent long-term winter damages to your concrete and protect your investment, by reading some concrete winter preparation tips below. Dornbrook Construction has provided information on how to preserve and protect your concrete before and during winter.
Clean your Concrete Often
Regularly wash your concrete with a pressure washer and warm water to remove built up sediment, which causes damage to your concrete. This built up sediment mainly consists of the salt and minerals used to melt ice. Overtime, this sediment build up can deteriorate the surface of your concrete. Regular cleaning and removal of these residues not only decreases the chance of concrete deterioration, it will prevent staining.
In addition to cleaning your concrete, Dornbrook Construction recommends clearing your concrete as well. Remove heavy tables, chairs, planters, etc. from patios, walkways and driveways for the winter season. Not only will your decor last longer, your concrete's life span will be extended as well. During the freeze-and-thaw cycles which occur often over winter, these heavy items can cause damage to your concrete as it shifts and expands.
Seal your Concrete
The best defense is a concrete sealant. This preserves the life of concrete by preventing damage and improving its overall appearance. Applying a penetrating sealer is best if done before winter. Make life easier and hire Dornbrook Construction’s concrete contractors to seal your concrete efficiently and accurately this season.
Avoid Snow from Melting
Rather than hope for the sun to melt your snow, it's always best to shovel your snow. Promptly removing snow from concrete driveways and walkways is highly recommended. As snow melts, water seeps into your concrete and when freezing temperatures arise, the water expands causing the concrete to crack or damage the surface.
Repair Cracks in your Concrete
If you have cracks in your concrete, Dornbrook Construction recommends repairing them. Even if your cracks are small, we advise getting them fixed ASAP. Come spring, ignored cracks will most likely have enlarged in size. Freezing and thawing will force your cracks to expand. By filling and fixing your cracks before freezing temperatures, you will minimize any expansion from water intrusion.
Concrete Installation
Any concrete installation poured near or around your house should have its gradation taken into consideration. When spring rolls around, all the melting snow and ice should flow away from your home. Divert water away from your foundation by discussing grading options with your concrete contractors. Pitched concrete walkways and sidewalks around home's perimeter is another option for effective exterior waterproofing.
For more information on preparing your home’s exterior concrete for winter, turn to Dornbrook Construction. Our experienced concrete contractors will discuss all necessary options with you.