Concrete Care: Winterizing Your Surfaces in Schenectady

Understanding Winter’s Impact on Concrete

Winter weather in Schenectady can be detrimental to concrete due to:

• The freezing-thawing cycle creates expansion and contraction of the concrete
• Chemicals used to melt ice/snow may damage the concrete surface
• Snow and ice form large amounts of moisture and water accumulation

Taking early actions will allow you to mitigate the negative effects of winter on your concrete and extend its lifespan.

1. Sealed

Seal your concrete to protect it from the elements:

• Create an obstacle to water penetrating the concrete
• Prevent damage from scaling created from the freezing-thawing of water
• Prevent stains from chemicals used to melt ice/snow

Apply sealer in the fall, when temperatures are most favorable. Our team at Schenectady Concrete Works would be happy to assist you with applying the sealer if needed.

2. Fix Cracks ASAP

Even small cracks can be a big issue if water freezes inside them and expands:

• Look over your entire concrete area for any cracks
• Apply a flexible concrete caulk to small crack(s)
• Apply a concrete patching compound to large crack(s)

Do not ignore any slight imperfection, as it can create an opening for water to enter the concrete.

3. Proper Water Drainage

Water accumulation on your concrete is prevented with proper drainage:

• Ensure your property slopes away from your concrete
• Clean out gutters and downspouts to provide a clear passage for water to flow off your property
• Install French drains in areas where water tends to accumulate

Standing water that freezes will eventually damage your concrete.

4. Select a De-Icer Product Wisely

Not all de-icer products are safe to use on your concrete:

• Avoid products with ammonium nitrate and ammonium sulfate
• Use calcium chloride-based de-icer products with caution
• Use sand or kitty litter to provide traction instead of chemical de-icer products

When possible, shovel snow immediately to limit the necessity to use de-icer products.

5. Protect New Concrete

If you have had concrete poured recently, it needs special protection:

• Do not use de-icer products on new concrete for the first winter
• Apply a sealer to new concrete after it has fully cured (usually 28 days)
• Use plastic sheeting to cover new concrete during extreme cold snaps

New concrete is much more susceptible to winter damage than established concrete; therefore, take extra precautions to protect new concrete.

6. Be Aware of the Damage Caused by Your Equipment

Be careful when removing snow with your equipment:

• Use plastic shovels instead of metal to prevent scratching the concrete surface
• Modify the blade of your snow blower to avoid scraping the concrete surface
• Use rubber covers for snowplow blades if you own a snowplow

Mechanical damage can damage the protective surface of your concrete, allowing winter damage to occur.

7. Consider Spring

Although winter is currently a focus, do not neglect to plan for spring:

• Schedule a post-winter inspection to determine if there was any damage
• Plan for spring cleaning to remove salt residue and winter dirt/grime
• Consider re-sealing if the winter was extremely severe

Performing early spring maintenance will allow you to correct any damage done by winter before it gets worse.

Concrete Care Partners

As your neighbors in Schenectady, we understand the unique challenges that our climate creates for concrete surfaces. Whether you need assistance, maintenance services, or want to start planning a new concrete project, Schenectady Concrete Works is here to help you.

Do not wait until winter is upon you. Begin protecting your concrete surfaces today to prepare for the harsh winter months ahead.

We at Schenectady Concrete Works are dedicated to assisting you in maintaining the appearance and integrity of your concrete through each of the seasons. Let us join forces to make sure your concrete remains resilient to whatever winter brings.