Concrete is a very durable and resilient surfacing material for the driveway, and it typically works well in regions with wintry weather or cold temperatures. However, since concrete is porous, cracks or damage can quickly become an issue if not addressed promptly. Take care to preserve and protect your concrete during the winter months so you can prevent moisture from coming into the driveway through cracks and spoiling your driveway's surface.

Some tips to take care of your concrete are as follows.

Make sure that you clean it frequently.

Cleaning your driveway often allows you the opportunity to assess its condition and ensure there are no cracks, gaps, or areas of concern. The best way to clean a concrete driveway is to keep it well swept and rinse it thoroughly with a garden hose or pressure washer.

Use a sealant product periodically.

It is a good idea to reseal your driveway every couple years, depending on the amount of traffic and wear and tear it regularly receives. Apply the sealant according to the product recommendations, and always use sealant on a clean, dry surface.

Use care when de-icing your driveway.

Many de-icing products contain salt, which can prematurely deteriorate and compromise your driveway over time. There are also chemicals in some de-icing solutions that will damage concrete, such as ammonium nitrates, which can actually attack and cause the surfacing material to break down.

Repair damage and stains promptly.

You will have a better chance at successfully removing stains from your concrete driveway if you act quickly. Oil, gasoline, and grease stains may actually conceal or camouflage existing damage, such as cracks, which could present problems if left untended for any length of time, particularly during wet or wintry conditions.

Prohibit heavy vehicles from your property.

Most residential drives aren't intended for heavy equipment or big trucks. Prevent these vehicles from accessing your driveway by posting a sign and using a fence or gate.

Watch when you plow.

If you regularly plow your driveway during the winter, be careful and cautious. Avoid using metal blades and plows, as these can damage the concrete each time that they are lowered to scrape and push away snow. Skip the road salt after; try using sand or kitty litter to prevent stuck vehicles or slips and falls.

Avoid damaging your concrete driveway this winter and prevent future issues with some precautionary measures. Concrete is a durable surfacing material, but if moisture is able to seep in cracks or gaps, the concrete can deteriorate over time. Use these tips to protect and preserve your concrete driveway this winter!

Talk to a company such as Island Ready-Mix Concrete for more tips.