Most concrete damage happens during winter.  By following the simple maintenance tips below, you’ll help your concrete weather the winter and add to its longevity.

• Immediately remove all snow and ice … and, if possible, pile it away from the edges of your concrete.  The less your concrete is in contact with water during the winter, the less it will be subjected to freeze/thaw cycles.
• For traction on icy surfaces, use sand or cat litter.  Salts or chemicals can damage the concrete’s surface as well as potentially kill your adjacent grass, shrubs, and trees.
• Do not use de-icers that contain ammonium sulfate or ammonium nitrate.  Not only will they melt your ice and snow, they’ll rapidly damage your concrete, too.
• Periodically throughout the winter on warmer days, thoroughly hose off the residual materials (mag chloride, road de-icers, dirt and grime) brought into your garage and onto your driveway from your vehicles.

We also highly recommend applying a concrete sealer every other year during the spring or fall.  Although a sealer doesn’t eliminate the need to maintain your concrete, it does add another layer of protection and can add years to the life of your concrete.