Wondering how to protect your concrete driveway this winter? Your driveway isn’t just where you drive your car–it’s part of your home’s curb appeal and impacts its overall value. However, it can be difficult to care for your driveway in the winter, especially in Novi, MI.
Repeated freeze-thaw cycles over the years can contribute to cracking, pitting, and unevenness. Knowing how to prevent these issues can keep your concrete driveway durable and attractive throughout its entire lifespan.
If you need help with your concrete driveway in Novi, MI, or the surrounding area, contact our team at D&G Cement Company.Our concrete driveway contractors can help with repairs and maintenance to keep your driveway pristine. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
How Can You Protect Your Concrete Driveway?
Proper Sealant
A high-quality concrete driveway sealant is the best way to protect your driveway from climate. Sealant creates a waterproof layer on the concrete surface that guards against freeze-thaw cycles. It also prevents water, de-icing chemicals, and salts from penetrating and affecting the concrete.
It’s best to apply sealant before the winter, either in the late summer or early fall. The temperature needs to be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit in order for the sealant to cure properly.
For the maximum amount of protection, a penetrating sealer works best rather than cheaper, film-forming sealants. A penetrating sealer soaks into the concrete without altering its appearance, providing enhanced durability.
De-icing Products
Common rock salt, ammonium sulfate, and ammonium nitrate are corrosive, breaking down the cement paste within the concrete. The result is flaking, spalling, and deterioration over the surface, which may require professional concrete resurfacing in the future.
Instead, consider using calcium chloride, sand, and other speciality de-icers that are safe for concrete. You can find several de-icing materials that are marked as concrete safe. In general, anything that is magnesium chloride-based will be safe to use on concrete.
Careful Shoveling
Metal shovels with sharp edges, ice picks, or other sharp tools can scratch the concrete surface. This compromises the sealant and creates scratches where water and moisture can enter and affect the concrete surface.
Pointed tools like ice picks can also chip the actual concrete. Instead, consider using a plastic-bladed shovel or snow blower with rubber skids.
Avoid Piling Snow
Piling snow on your concrete driveway creates concentrated areas of moisture. As the pile begins to melt, it creates areas where water heavily saturates the concrete’s edges. During freeze-thaw cycles, these edges are especially vulnerable to damage since they’re constantly exposed to water.
Instead of piling snow on the edges of your concrete driveway, shovel or blow it onto your lawn or a permeable surface where it can melt and drain away naturally into soil.
Fix Cracks
Fixing cracks before winter is crucial for preventing water from seeping into the concrete. Once water gets in through a crack, it goes through freeze-thaw cycles, causing the crack to expand and get worse. If not addressed promptly, a small crack can quickly turn into a more expensive problem that requires professional concrete driveway repair.
Before winter, clean out any existing cracks and expansion joints and fill them with concrete caulk or a sealant.
Proper Drainage
Proper drainage on your concrete driveway is essential to prevent moisture damage. Ideally, your driveway should be slightly sloped to prevent water pooling.
In addition, downspouts and gutters on your property should direct water away from your driveway.
Professional Maintenance
Professional maintenance for your concrete driveway is essential to extending its lifespan. An experienced concrete contractor can inspect your driveway, identifying small issues before they become bigger and more expensive.
A professional can also provide industrial-grade, concrete safe sealants using specialized equipment. These sealants are typically more long-lasting compared to DIY methods. Having your concrete driveway assessed before winter can ensure it stays protected all season long.
Need Help with Your Concrete Driveway in Novi, MI? Contact Us
If you need help with your concrete driveway in Novi, MI, contact our team at D&G Cement Company. Our team specializes in concrete driveway installation and repair, as well as other concrete work.
With over 50 years of experience working with concrete, including driveways, garage floors, patios, sidewalks, we’re the best choice to keep your driveway protected throughout the winter.
Want to learn more about working with our team? Call (313) 277-2676 or contact us online today.