Rain, sun, foot traffic, and chemicals can slowly deteriorate concrete. Before you know it, cracks widen, surfaces erode, and repairing them costs more. You don’t want that to happen.
How do you then avoid it from happening in the first place? You need to know this to keep your concrete intact and ensure it lasts longer.
Know What Damages Concrete
Learn what causes the damage before you repair it. Usual suspects are:
- Water: Moisture seeps in, freezes, and expands, making cracks.
- Chemicals: Salt, oil, and cleaning products can corrode surfaces.
- Heat and UV: Sunlight fades colors and compromises surface strength.
- Heavy loads: Automobiles, trucks, and machinery cause wear on surfaces.
Seal the Surface Immediately
Sealing is one of the best methods for avoiding damage. It excludes water, mud, and chemicals. All sealers are not created equal. Select quality items that suit your climate and intended use.
Breathable sealers are best for patios or driveways. For industrial surfaces or above-grade areas, heavier coatings are more protective. A few practitioners currently suggest polyurea waterproofing due to its quick cure time, longevity, and resistance to severe weather conditions.
Seal Small Cracks Now
Small cracks do not look like much, but they invite dirt and moisture. They grow over time and are more costly to fix. Apply patching compounds specifically for concrete. Prepare the crack first, then fill it entirely.
You avoid major issues later when you address minor ones currently. Maintenance of the minor kind is a large aspect of protecting concrete.
Keep It Dry and Clean
Spills, leaves, and dirt degrade concrete over time. Clean it regularly by sweeping. Clean it gently with water and mild soap. Do not use harsh chemicals that can erode the surface.
If your concrete is adjacent to grass or trees, eradicate weeds and moss promptly. They can crack and move concrete from underneath due to their roots.
Control standing water as well. Poor drainage is one of the quickest means of destroying concrete. If water collects, install runoffs or drains properly.
Apply Protective Coatings
Think of coatings like sunscreen for your concrete. They shield it from sunlight, water, chemicals, and abrasion. Depending on where the concrete is, different types work better.
- Epoxy coatings are great for garages and workshops.
- Acrylic sealers work well for outdoor surfaces.
- Polyurea waterproofing is excellent for high-traffic areas because of its durability and fast-setting feature.
The right coating extends the life of your concrete while making it look fresh.
Don’t Overload and Stress
Don’t subject concrete to a weight it was not intended for. For example, parking heavy trucks on a narrow driveway can cause cracking. Utilize concrete protection in areas of heavy weight.
Avoid also dropping things or equipment on it. Small stress accumulated over time might damage the surface.
Wrapping Up
Concrete is not indestructible, but with proper maintenance, it will last decades. You don’t have to be a professional to maintain it at its best, just stay ahead of the game. Clean, seal, check, and move quickly when problems arise. Take the steps now, and your concrete will reward you tomorrow.
Oliver Smith is an experienced blogger at Grammar Globe, Oliver Smith, an expert in English grammar and a master of wit, brings language to life with his playful take on puns. Through his works, he weaves humor into the rules of grammar, making learning fun and engaging for readers of all ages. Discover language with a smile!”
