|
|
|
Tips for Preparing Your Concrete for Cold Weather
|
|  |
|
|
Dear Jim,
The snow is already falling in some areas of the country, signaling that a long, harsh winter is on the horizon. Before the cold weather tightens its icy grip, now is the time to winterize your exterior concrete surfaces. Proper maintenance and protection can greatly extend the service life of both new and existing concrete and preserve its appearance. Here are three steps to take to prepare your exterior concrete for the brutal months ahead.
Jim Peterson,
The Concrete Network
|
| |
|
|
Give it a good cleaning
After months of exposure to foot or vehicle traffic, the environment, and stains from fallen leaves, your concrete could benefit from a good cleaning, before the stains set in. The degree of cleaning needed will largely depend on the conditions the concrete is exposed to. Learn more about the different methods and products to use to clean concrete effectively without harming the surface.
|
| |
|
|
Fix minor cracks
Although small cracks in concrete may not seem like a big deal, they can worsen if water or deicing salts are allowed to enter and freeze-thaw expansion occurs. To successfully repair and seal up those cracks, it's important to use the right tools and materials. Get these how-to tips for crack repair.
|
|
|
|
|
Apply a fresh coat of sealer
Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, applying a coat of the right sealer to your concrete will improve its resistance to freeze-thaw exposure and deicing chemicals. It will also make the concrete easier to clean the following spring. Concrete driveways are especially vulnerable to the effects of deicers. Learn all you need to know about properly sealing concrete driveways.
|
|
|
