Concrete tips
A little care keeps concrete looking new for decades.
Three quick habits, plus the one maintenance task that matters most in a Spokane winter.
Quick habits
Three things that protect your concrete.
Sweep off fertilizer
Be sure to sweep off any fertilizer that gets on your concrete. Fertilizers contain iron, which will cause rust stains if left to get wet.
Skip the salt
De-icing products and rock salt will cause severe damage to the surface of your concrete. Try plain kitty litter or sand for better traction in winter.
Cracks are normal
It is normal for concrete to crack. Cracks can be filled in; pop-outs, chips, gouges, or other damage can usually be patched. For best results we recommend hiring a concrete professional.
Maintaining your concrete
Clean occasionally. Re-seal as needed.
Periodically spot cleaning and rinsing your concrete is generally all that is needed. Re-sealing occasionally with the same type of sealer as originally applied will help maintain and prolong the life of your concrete. This can be done on your own by following the sealer manufacturer's instructions.
The frequency of re-sealing is on an as-needed basis. However, like medication, more is not necessarily a good thing, so try not to create a buildup of sealer product. It all depends upon traffic, weather, exposure to water, and the amount of direct sunlight to which the sealer is exposed.
Rule of thumb: re-seal about every third year.
Need a repair or a re-seal?
We are happy to look at older concrete, whether or not we poured it.