Did you know that even the ancient Romans used concrete in their construction? They valued it for its strength and for its ability to be molded into different forms. They formed concrete from volcanic ash and lime, which were a bit different from the materials used today, but the substance was very similar and used for similar purposes. Today, concrete contractors carry on the ancient Roman tradition, making everything from patios to counter tops from concrete. These creations last for years and require little maintenance. We think concrete is amazing, and we hope you'll share that opinion after reading the articles provided here.
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Tips To Protect And Maintain Your Property's Concrete Surfaces
Edwin Robertson
Your concrete patio, walkways, and driveways are going to be exposed to a number of fluids and materials that will alter its appearance and reduce its quality. Fortunately, there are ways you can protect its surface and keep it looking great as you handle any damage to its surface with recommended maintenance to keep it in its best condition. Here are some tips to help you take care of your concrete pavement surfaces so they can last a long time and look great.
Complete Maintenance and Repairs
Because your concrete surface is going to be exposed to extreme heat in the summer from the sun's UV radiation, and freezing temperatures with snow and ice in the winter, it will go through regular expanding and contracting activities. The freeze-thaw cycles that occur in winter can put your concrete under excessive stress that can turn a small hairline crack into a wide gap. For this reason it is essential you keep your concrete maintained with professional concrete repairs.
Concrete is a rigid surface, which is going to cause it to crack in areas. As a homeowner, you should keep the cracks cleaned of any weeds and grass growth, which can further deteriorate the concrete. Then, a concrete repair professional can fill these cracks with a repair epoxy and fill over spalling damage with a skimcoat overlay repair.
Keep up on your concrete's protection in winter by using the right types of ice melt chemicals. Chemicals containing potassium chloride and rock salt will damage the surface of your concrete and cause it to break down. Instead, opt for a chemical deicer that contains magnesium chloride and calcium chloride or just plain sand sprinkled on the surface of your driveway to promote traction.
Use Protective Treatments
Because your concrete surface is a porous material, it can become stained from vehicle fluids which get down into its surface and are hard to get out. Fortunately, one of the best ways to protect your concrete and to keep it looking nice is to apply a concrete seal treatment. This type of coating protects the surface of your concrete from stains due to fluid leaks on its surface and discoloration that can occur from rust transfer.
And a concrete sealant is a great way to improve the appearance of your concrete as it adds a smoothing sheen to its surface. You can also use it to stain your concrete's surface a different color or pattern of colors. This is a great way to turn your plain concrete patio into one that looks like a stone decorative patio.
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