Concrete patios are excellent features to make homes look more charming, welcome more guests, and make outdoor landscaping more enjoyable. Maintain a patio well, and it will last for many years.
While concrete is easier to maintain than brick or asphalt surfaces, it’s still advised that you take the time to care for your concrete outdoor surfaces.
During the spring, there will be specific threats to the look and feel of your outdoor concrete patio. Concrete contractors often have to repair these surfaces in the spring, even though you might think that spring is the time when you can abandon your winter care duties.
Spring brings its own complications. Here are the top recommendations that a concrete company in Reno, NV, suggests to prepare your patio for springtime.
Local concrete contractors recommend that you work to prevent surface flaws like stains, scratches, and chips. These flaws are difficult to repair without simply paving over the surface.
Sweep your concrete patio or use a leaf blower to get rid of twigs, leaves, spring flowers, and other plant matter that may end up on your patio. Organic matter like these can stain the surface of your patio.
Avoid scratching your concrete patio. Lift patio furniture and then set it into place; don’t drag it around as you decorate for the spring. Lay an outdoor rug under outdoor dining tables or patio chairs to prevent scratching as people get in and out of their seat.
Keep heavy objects, like portable basketball nets, above-ground pools, and large barbecue pits, off of the concrete surface.
Cleaning outdoor concrete surfaces like patios doesn’t just make it look better, it increases its durability. Concrete companies can recommend soaps and power washers to help you maintain clean concrete for a more durable, longer lasting surface.
You can also apply protective sealers to concrete patios. This is especially recommended if you have decorative or finished concrete. Protective sealers can prevent grease, oil, dirt, decaying chemicals, and other unwanted chemicals from penetrating the surface. Sealants can also prevent damage from UV exposure, and common risk in the spring, when sunny days are more common.
Re-seal these surfaces every few years for best results. Apply sealant before springtime to prevent damage.
There are some substances that should never interact with concrete, even if it’s properly sealed and cleaned. Don’t use bleach or other harsh cleaners. They can deteriorate concrete. Also avoid using ice-melt products. While their packaging may state that they’re concrete-safe, they can gradually deteriorate the concrete.
Also, don’t use a power washer on the surface. Power washing, if you’re untrained, can damage concrete patios. Speaking of water-related damage, be careful watering near your patio.
Concrete driveway contractors frequently fix cracks and breaks due to water damage, and this can affect concrete patios, as well. In the spring, you’re more likely to water your grass and plants. However, water that seeps under your patio can make the dirt expand and contract, which makes the patio non-level and can cause breakage. Apply a layer of mulch around your patio. Mulch will absorb moisture and keep it away from the dirt under your patio.
For more advice on caring for your patio, get in touch with a concrete company in Reno, NV, like Action Concrete.
