Concrete Maintenance 101: Tips for Keeping Your Surfaces Looking Like New

Concrete is a durable and one of the most versatile building materials. Its robust nature makes it a favored material for driveways, sidewalks, patios, indoor flooring, and other concrete surfaces. While it is admired for its strength, concrete can still succumb to normal wear and tear. Being exposed to the elements of nature can make concrete look dull over time. It is a must, therefore, to be aware of the different concrete maintenance techniques whether you are a homeowner or a business owner. This is to ensure that concrete surfaces are kept looking at their best. 

Understanding concrete maintenance is crucial to prolong the lifespan of concrete and not yield to cracks, stains, and other forms of deterioration.  In this article, we'll explore essential cleaning techniques and surface preservation tips to enhance concrete appearance and keep it looking great for generations to come. 

Understanding Concrete Maintenance

Before getting into the specifics of concrete maintenance, it is important to understand why there is a need to do it. Even though they cannot be seen by the naked eye, concrete has thousands of tiny pores and capillaries that make it porous. This means that it can absorb not only moisture but also chemicals and other substances that can cause deterioration. Sunlight, rain, snow, and ice also contribute to concrete weakening. They can make concrete prone to cracking, spalling, scaling, and staining. These issues can also be caused by heavy loads, freeze-thaw cycles, and improper installation or curing. Not addressing the need for concrete maintenance will not only cause concrete to deteriorate prematurely but also make it costly to repair the damages later on.

1. Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning is crucial in concrete maintenance. Sweeping off dirt, debris, oil, and grease is the first step to preventing the accumulation of contaminants over the surface. Loose debris can be blown off by a leaf blower. Stubborn dirt, like stains and grime, can be cleaned off using a pressure washer. Just be cautious with the pressure setting to avoid damaging the concrete. A suitable cleaning agent, such as detergent or cleaning solution should be used when cleaning the surface. 

2. Seal Your Concrete

Applying a high-quality sealer helps protect concrete from moisture, stains, and UV rays. Sealers act as a barrier to prevent substances, such as water, oil, and chemicals from seeping into the concrete. They come in different varieties, like acrylic, epoxy, polyurethane, and penetrating sealers. Check the compatibility of sealers to your concrete surface before applying. You should choose according to the specific level of protection that you need. Refer to the manufacturer’s label regarding application instructions including when to reapply to maintain its effectiveness. 

3. Repair Cracks Promptly

Small cracks in concrete can worsen if left unattended. It is a common issue with concrete especially when exposed to various factors, including freeze-thaw cycles, heavy loads, and shrinkage. Addressing cracks promptly will prevent water and other substances from seeping into the concrete. Further deterioration can be avoided by filling in the cracks with concrete patching compound or epoxy resin. It is advised to consult a professional concrete contractor for assessment of damage to larger cracks.  This is to make sure that there are no structural issues related with the cracks and to have the appropriate repairs as needed. 

4. Avoid Deicing Chemicals

Deicing chemicals are used when ice and snow have accumulated on concrete surfaces during the winter months. Rock salt (sodium chloride) is usually used along with other chemicals. While it is effective in melting ice and snow, these chemicals can cause damage to concrete. Deicing chemicals can cause scaling and corrosion of the reinforcement steel. Alternative deicing methods that use sand, calcium magnesium acetate, and potassium acetate can be considered instead. These are not as damaging especially when used sparingly and are rinsed thoroughly after application. 

5. Ensure Proper Drainage

Water pooling can cause staining, cracking, and other damage. A water pool can also promote growth of algae, mold, and mildew that accelerate concrete deterioration. There are many ways to avoid the pooling of water on concrete surfaces.  One is to properly slope concrete to allow drainage. Another way is to install gutters, downspouts, and other drainage system types to help channel the water flow. Regular inspection for obstruction and cleanliness ensure proper drainage at all times. 

6. Avoid Heavy Loads

Concrete is strong and durable but it also has its limits. Excessive weight or pressure can weaken concrete and may cause it to crack or fail. Vehicles, machinery, and equipment must not be placed over concrete for an extended amount of time. Distributing the weight evenly by using load-bearing pads, mats, or platforms can minimize the risk of damage. Reinforcing with steel mesh, rebar, or fiber reinforcement can be used to increase the load-bearing capacity if it is unavoidable to have heavy loads on concrete. 

7. Conduct Routine Inspections

Early identification of potential concrete issues is the key to avoiding costly repairs later on. Regularly inspect for signs of damage, such as cracks, spalling, scaling, staining, and discoloration. Areas that are exposed to heavy traffic, moisture, chemicals, and other environmental factors should be inspected thoroughly as they are more prone to damage. Immediate action must be taken if there are any signs of damage or deterioration. Prompt remedy is crucial as this can address minor issues before they worsen and demand major repairs.

Concrete structures are designed to last but are still prone to physical damage, chemical exposure, and weathering. Deteriorated concrete is not only an eyesore but is also a safety hazard. Uneven surfaces because of cracks and scales can cause property occupants, pedestrians, and vehicles to trip, fall, and other accidents. Deterioration can also compromise the structural integrity of pavements, buildings, and other concrete surfaces. Addressing these issues can be costly in the long run but is highly avoidable with proper concrete preservation techniques. 

Overall, implementing concrete surface preservation systems can help maintain the sturdiness, appearance, safety, and sustainability of concrete. A comprehensive concrete surface preservation routine is the best way to keep concrete in pristine condition for more years to come. 

Need help in preserving concrete? Mitigate concrete deterioration with the experts at Puget Sound Concrete. Make that call and get professional advice on concrete surface care to ensure long-term performance and safety of concrete structures.