Proper care keeps your driveway, patio, or walkway looking great and ensures its long-term durability. Even with the right concrete mix and finishing techniques, exterior concrete is exposed to harsh conditions that can lead to damage. Follow these tips to protect your investment.
Essential Maintenance Tips
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Avoid Deicers During the First Winter
- Use plain sand for traction on ice and snow instead of deicing chemicals.
- Concrete can remain saturated with water during its first year, making it more susceptible to frost damage.
- If your vehicle drips road salts onto the driveway, clean them off as soon as possible.
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Limit Deicing Chemicals After the First Year
- Avoid fertilizer-based chemicals like ammonium nitrate or ammonium sulfate, which destroy concrete.
- After the first winter, use deicers sparingly and opt for milder options like sodium chloride (rock salt) or calcium chloride, ideally mixed with sand for added traction.
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Apply a Protective Sealer
- To prevent water infiltration and minimize freeze-thaw damage, apply a water-repellent sealer in late summer or early fall.
- Commercial sealers containing silane or siloxane are ideal for concrete surfaces. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
- For a budget-friendly option, use a homemade mixture of boiled linseed oil and mineral spirits or kerosene applied in two layers. (This may slightly darken the surface.)
Additional Tips for Preventing Damage
- Be diligent with cleaning: Remove snow and ice promptly to minimize the need for deicers.
- Protect against scaling: Scaling occurs when water-saturated concrete freezes and flakes off, exposing aggregates. Early care, especially during the first year, is crucial to avoid this unsightly damage.
- Clean up fertilizers immediately: If fertilizers accidentally spill onto your concrete, rinse them off thoroughly to prevent surface destruction.
The Bottom Line
With proper maintenance, your concrete surfaces can remain strong and visually appealing for years to come. Start early, be cautious with deicers, and protect your investment with a quality sealer.