The concrete in and around your home, if maintained properly, can enhance the appearance of your house and should ideally provide many years of service with minimal maintenance. Concrete, as a matter of fact, is the most popular artificial materials on Earth, surpassing everything else in its path. It has been used for centuries dating all the way back to the ancient Romans. Its popularity has come to the point that it has become the most widely used material for many purposes in today’s world!
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Ways Of Taking Care Of Your Concrete
Cold Conditions
If you live in an area with extreme cold, pits and pop-outs should be expected. Even though these damages are cosmetic in nature and don’t affect your concrete’s structural integrity in any way, they sure are unsightly. Sealing any openings to prevent water from getting into the concrete and freezing inside can help reduce this type of damage.
General Sealing
Apply a good quality sealer and make sure you follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully. Remember, not all concrete sealers are the same; there are several different types of sealers available in the market designed for certain specific situations. It is vital that you get this done as soon as possible, hopefully before the damage is done.
Curing
Proper curing is crucial if new concrete has been poured, this will help to maximize the life of your chosen design and characteristics of the mix. It’s recommended that you stay off new concrete and leave it exposed to 100% humidity for the first two hours for best results. Also, never build anything on top of a recently installed concrete surface to help improve its durability for the coming years.
Refrain From Fertiliser Use
Keep lawn fertilizers off all concrete surfaces. Most people often leave lawn fertilizers on the concrete, which damages the surface over time. Lawn fertilizers often contain iron and tend to leave rust stains on the surface when wet. Moreover, many rust removers contain some form of a bleaching agent, so make sure you read the instructions as carefully as possible, or you might end up with white spots instead of rusted ones.
Oil, Rust & Other Staining Substances
Try to keep your concrete clear of oil, rust, and dirt stains as much as possible. Contaminants might force your concrete to break. If this happens, you can always choose to use a sealer to make it look better without much effort. Cleaning your concrete will also make your house look more presentable.
Water Stains & Discolouration
Water is also an enemy when it comes to concrete. If left on the surface for a long time, water will lead to the formation of mould spots, making the surface slippery. Try and provide a little slope allowing the water to drain easily or be vigilant enough to keep the water clear. Clean the surface immediately after a spill to reduce the chances of damage or discolouration. Use a powerful hose to keep your patios, driveways, and retaining walls clear of any dirt and debris.