Although concrete is one of the most durable materials, it can still deteriorate over time if not properly maintained. Winter is the season to test concrete’s durability because of the moisture and potentially harsh weather that comes along during those colder months.
Despite Texas not reaching freezing temperatures frequently, winter care is still important to make sure your concrete stays durable and strong all-year long. The last thing you would want after a new concrete installation is for it to crack during that first winter.
Why Concrete Care is Important in the Winter
Concrete is an investment. It is one that can last your whole lifetime if properly taken care of. If you take the right precautions now, you will save money on repairs later. Winter care is most important during the concrete’s first year, so make sure to take extra care of it during that time.
Winter is harshest on your concrete, even in Texas, because there tends to be more moisture in the ground during this season. When concrete gains moisture and then dries up, it causes cracks. Preserving it helps not only prevent cracks, but also discoloration and mold which will make it look less visually appealing.
Protect Your Concrete in the Winter Months
It only takes a few steps to make sure your concrete is protected during winter months. Here are a few ways to do so:
- Make sure heading into colder temperatures that there are no existing cracks. If there are existing cracks, the cold weather could make the cracks more problematic and the repairs would be more costly.
- Seal the concrete. Sealing helps preserve it against snow and rain, which might be unlikely in Texas, but it is always better to be safe than sorry! Sealant is one of the best ways to protect it during any season since it is a repellent.
- Install your concrete with plenty of time before the first winter so it has plenty of time to curate and set before it freezes and thaws.
Protect Your Concrete by Applying Sealant
Using sealant to protect your concrete is one of the best ways to avoid long term damage. Here is how to apply it:
- Clean the concrete by removing any dirt, oil, or any other stains.
- Remove any existing sealer so the concrete is fresh.
- Using a paint roller or other applicator, apply a thin layer of the sealant.
- After the first layer of sealant fully dries, apply a second layer.
- Wait for the sealant to fully dry and then enjoy your protected concrete!
If you are planning to use sealant, for best results, wait about a month to use it on new concrete and try to apply it in dry weather.
What to Avoid to Protect Your Concrete
Now that you know how to preserve your concrete, it is also important to know what not to do. Here are a few things you shouldn’t do:
- Avoid putting salt on the concrete. Salt is used on outdoor surfaces to help melt the snow and ice, which once again isn’t super common in Texas. However, if you are thinking about using salt, try to avoid spreading it on concrete because it rubs against it and breaks it down.
- Do not use a de-icer on newer concrete. Concrete takes time to become the durable material we know, and using de-icer too soon can break it down.
- If possible, avoid parking your car on the concrete, especially if it has been installed within the last year. Car tires track snow and salt, which in turn break it down.
Looking For Extra Care? Work with a Concrete Professional
Protect your concrete in the winter and in every season! Concrete is a great option to use in and around your home if properly maintained.
If you have questions regarding care, maintenance, or repairs, contact us! We have a full team of trained professionals who would love to answer your questions and provide insight on caring for your concrete. Whether this is your concrete’s first winter or 50th winter, we can help protect it!