4 Ways to Protect Your Concrete This Winter
Now that January is in full swing, the chances of a random snowstorm popping up is much higher. In order to care for your concrete investment there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are 4 tips to prove why snow removal is important during the winter months.
Remove Snow and Ice Immediately
When you don’t remove snow and ice off your concrete as soon as possible you risk the moisture seeping into the concrete and freezing. When this happens, it can cause cracking and flaking once the spring arrives. If you don’t let the snow and ice build up, there’s a better chance this won’t happen to you.
Don’t Use Deicing Salts
Although deicing salts can help make ice removal easier, the chemicals used to create them can make it easier for water to seep into your concrete. If you are needing traction during the winter months it is better to use sand or gravel on the concrete surface instead.
Check Your Downspouts and Drainage
As snow and ice melts from your rooftop it is important to track where it goes. If the downspouts send the water flowing towards anything that is concrete it could potentially cause cracking issues. A simple fix would be making sure your gutters and downspouts point away from any concrete.
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Consider Applying a Protective Sealant
By applying a high-quality sealant this can help block any water from seeping into your concrete. Although sealants are usually recommended for fresh poured concrete, they can also be effective for older concrete surfaces.