Freezing temperatures can be tough on many surfaces outside the home. Items such as lawn furniture should be stored inside for the colder months. However, some items must remain outside, but should be prepared for the snow and freezes. Preparing your concrete driveway for winter can help ensure it remains in good shape for many years.
If trees are a part of the landscaping, the Fall can cover the drive in leaves. Rains can leach the color causing compounds and acids from the leaves to discolor the surface of the drive. In addition, leaves trap moisture, keeping the masonry wet. Moisture encourages growth of mold and moss and can cause people to slip and fall. Remove leaves regularly. Scrub the surface using soap and water before the hoses are stored away.
Cracks can cause a threat to the masonry's longevity. Water from rain fills the cracks and freezes, expanding to enlarge cracks even more. Visible cracks need to be repaired before the cold comes.
New surfaces should be allowed to cure fully before application of a sealer. During this time it is very important to avoid use of all chemical deicers that can result in flaking of the surface. If vehicles have driven over streets where chemical deicers are used they will drip the chemicals onto the drive. When the weather clears, wash the area to remove salts.
If ice forms on the surface before sealing, use sand to improve traction. Once the ice thaws, the sand can be swept away. Sand is available for purchase in bags at most local improvement stores.
A hard surface drive is an expensive investment that requires preparation for cold temperatures in order to endure. Preparing your concrete driveway for winter will ensure the material will remain in great shape for many years in the future. These steps help to keep the area looking great and performing well.
If trees are a part of the landscaping, the Fall can cover the drive in leaves. Rains can leach the color causing compounds and acids from the leaves to discolor the surface of the drive. In addition, leaves trap moisture, keeping the masonry wet. Moisture encourages growth of mold and moss and can cause people to slip and fall. Remove leaves regularly. Scrub the surface using soap and water before the hoses are stored away.
Cracks can cause a threat to the masonry's longevity. Water from rain fills the cracks and freezes, expanding to enlarge cracks even more. Visible cracks need to be repaired before the cold comes.
New surfaces should be allowed to cure fully before application of a sealer. During this time it is very important to avoid use of all chemical deicers that can result in flaking of the surface. If vehicles have driven over streets where chemical deicers are used they will drip the chemicals onto the drive. When the weather clears, wash the area to remove salts.
If ice forms on the surface before sealing, use sand to improve traction. Once the ice thaws, the sand can be swept away. Sand is available for purchase in bags at most local improvement stores.
A hard surface drive is an expensive investment that requires preparation for cold temperatures in order to endure. Preparing your concrete driveway for winter will ensure the material will remain in great shape for many years in the future. These steps help to keep the area looking great and performing well.
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