Freeze-Thaw Cycles Cause Pitting and Flaking of Concrete Surfaces

Melting snow takes advantage of the porous nature of concrete. A silicone-based, concrete sealant will keep moisture from penetrating the concrete, year-round.

It's early March, and we are experiencing the typical swings in weather that the Midwest is known for. Large amounts of snow created accumulations that were piled anywhere space could be found. 

Now that we are getting warm temperatures during the day but freezing temperatures at night, the snow is melting during the day and then freezing on our concrete surfaces at night.  

This up and down temperature cycle may give you spring fever, but it is hard on your concrete. Whether it is your driveway, sidewalk, or patio, the surface of your concrete may not be built to hold up through this season.  

Concrete's Porous Nature Makes It Susceptible to Surface Damage Unless It is Sealed Properly

Most people think of cracks and trip hazards when they think of concrete problems on their driveway or sidewalk, but surface pitting can steal away from your curb appeal, too. The porous nature of concrete means that melting snow seeps into the surface of the concrete. It wouldn't be a problem if the temperatures at night stayed warm, but the water freezes and expands in freezing temperatures. It can do this every day for several days sometimes, and that is when you will see the surface of your concrete begin to deteriorate. 

Once this deterioration occurs, there is no fixing it. You can only prevent it from getting worse or replace the concrete altogether. To avoid further damage or any damage at all, consider sealing your concrete surface with SealantPro Concrete Sealant.  

SealantPro Concrete Sealant Protects Concrete Long-Term

SealantPro is a silicone-based, penetrating concrete sealant that will keep moisture and chemicals from seeping into the concrete. SealantPro is reactive, meaning it causes a chemical reaction inside the concrete that creates a new internal structure that acts as a shield. A single application will penetrate up to one-quarter inch and becomes a permanent part of the concrete surface. It helps prevent deterioration and staining and never has to be reapplied.

Technicians at Thrasher Foundation Repair prepare the surface by deep cleaning it before applying the sealer to ensure a proper bond. An even coat is applied and broomed into the concrete's surface and cures in approximately six hours.

Shane McClintic Talks About Protecting the Surface of Your Concrete 

Shane McClintic came across a common site these days- a flaking driveway. He was in Council Bluffs, Iowa and took the time to put together a short video showing the impact of freeze-thaw cycles on concrete. Take a look at the video for tips on protecting your concrete from flaking, pitting, and staining. 

If you suspect that you might be seeing the effects of moisture on the surface of your concrete or cracking and sinking, it’s time to call in an expert like Thrasher Foundation Repair. In 45 years of business, we’ve seen it all and fixed it all. We are the local experts for all your concrete repair needs in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas and Missouri. We offer warrantied solutions that will alleviate and repair concrete issues. Contact us for a free, no-obligation foundation inspection today! By the time we’re done, you’ll know exactly what is causing the problem, exactly what it will take to repair them and exactly how much it will cost.

To schedule your free inspection, call or fill out the contact form, here. Don’t wait until it’s too late.