Learn what you can do to maintain and protect your concrete from continuous wintertime freeze-thaw cycles and harsh de-icing salt.
Winter can be tough on concrete, but with the right routine and preventative maintenance, you can keep your concrete in great shape throughout the year.
Fluctuating wintertime temperatures and constant feeze-thaw cycles can wreak havoc on concrete, leading to permanent cracks, spalling, and other forms of damage.
To help you protect your concrete this winter, here are four essential tips for maintaining your concrete and preventing damage when the cold sets in.
1. Don’t Use De-Icing Salt
While it might be tempting to throw down some de-icing salt to keep your driveways and sidewalks free of ice, doing so can cause long-term damage to your concrete.
When salt gets absorbed into the concrete’s pores, it breaks down the concrete from the inside. It also accelerates the freeze-thaw process by lowering the freezing point of water, allowing more water to seep into the concrete’s pores and expand when it freezes.
Instead of salt, opt for non-chemical alternatives like sand or cat litter, which provide traction without damaging your concrete.
Read More: Does Salt Damage Concrete? + Alternatives to Salt
2. Remove Snow Immediately
Allowing snow to accumulate on your concrete can lead to prolonged exposure to moisture, increasing the risk of freeze-thaw damage.
By removing snow as soon as possible, you reduce the amount of water that can seep into your concrete’s pores, thereby minimizing the risk of cracks and spalling.
Use a plastic snow shovel to avoid scratching or chipping the concrete’s surface, and consider using a snow blower for larger areas. The quicker you remove snow, the less likely it is that your concrete will suffer from winter damage.
3. Seal With Penetrating Sealer
Sealing your concrete with a high-quality penetrating sealer is one of the most effective ways to protect it from winter’s harsh elements.
A penetrating sealer creates a protective barrier that prevents water and other liquids from being absorbed into the concrete, reducing the risk of freeze-thaw damage.
Apply the sealer before the winter season begins to ensure that your concrete is well-protected.
Pro Tip: If your concrete is already showing signs of surface damage, sealing can help slow the progression of that damage by keeping out additional moisture.
4. Caulk Gaps and Cracks
Even small cracks and gaps in your concrete can allow water to penetrate the surface, leading to significant damage as the water freezes and expands. Caulking these cracks and joints before winter sets in can prevent water from seeping into your concrete and causing further damage.
At A-1 Concrete Leveling, we recommend using a polymer concrete caulk that seals off cracks and joints, keeping water out and protecting your concrete during freeze-thaw cycles. This simple step can save you from more extensive and costly repairs down the line.
Read More: What To Use To Caulk Cracks and Joints in Concrete
Should You Maintain Your Concrete Over Winter?
Taking the time to maintain your concrete during the winter months can save you from costly repairs and ensure that your concrete surfaces remain safe, beautiful, and durable.
By following these four tips—avoiding de-icing salt, removing snow promptly, sealing your concrete, and caulking cracks—you’ll be well on your way to keeping your concrete in top shape all winter long.
If you’re looking for professional help with concrete maintenance, A-1 Concrete Leveling offers expert services in cleaning, sealing, and caulking. Request a free onsite estimate today!
Sarah Etler
Sarah Etler joined A-1 Concrete Leveling after receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Northern Kentucky University. As A-1's Content Marketing Manager, she works closely with industry experts to produce content that will best answer questions related to concrete repair and maintenance practices. Sarah loves living a life full of discovery and is excited every day to see what new things she can learn and share with those around her.
