INFORMATION ABOUT CONCRETE CARE
WHY DO YOU NEED TO MAINTAIN CONCRETE
While concrete is considered to be the most durable construction product, proper care is a recommended for it’s long-lasting beauty and wear. The following care and maintenance guidelines will add to the value of your investment.
1. Clean your concrete.
If you want to keep your concrete looking good, you need to clean it. Cleaning your concrete can help remove dirt and debris and give the final form an attractive look. There are different ways to clean concrete, so find the option that makes the most sense for your specific need.
Dry soils can scratch and work their way into the concrete floor because concrete, especially if it has not been sealed, is porous.
2. Seal your concrete.
Sealing your concrete can help extend the life and keep it looking great. There are different types of concrete sealers available. Topical sealers can be applied to the surface of the concrete every few years in order to prevent staining and surface damage. Always be sure to seal the concrete according to the manufacturer’s directions.
3. Remove stains immediately.
4. Limit your weight.
Concrete is a very strong and durable material, but residential concrete pours are not designed to hold extremely heavy materials. For example, while your driveway is perfectly capable of handling the weight of your everyday vehicle, it’s not equipped to handle heavy machinery or oversized vehicles like delivery trucks or moving trucks. Make sure these vehicles remain on the street and keep heavy machinery somewhere other than your driveway in order to maintain the life of your concrete.
5. Avoid the wrong chemicals.
It’s very important that you refrain from using certain chemicals on your concrete. For example, some fertilizers can stain your concrete, so be sure to remove any excess or spillage from your concrete right away. You should also be sure to use a cleaner specific to concrete, as some household products may do more harm than good. Make sure to thoroughly read instructions and disclaimers on products before using on concrete.