Murfreesboro winter weather can be particularly harsh on concrete driveways. The combination of freezing temperatures, snow and ice, and the use of de-icing agents can all contribute to damage over time.
However, there are steps that homeowners can take to protect their concrete driveways during winter and prolong their lifespan.
Preventing Damage
One of the best ways to protect a concrete driveway during winter is to take preventative measures before winter arrives. This includes sealing the driveway and cleaning it thoroughly.
Sealing the driveway helps to prevent water from penetrating the surface, which can cause cracks and other types of damage. Cleaning the driveway removes any dirt or debris that could become trapped under the snow and ice, which can cause damage as well.
Clearing Snow and Ice
Once winter arrives, it’s important to clear snow and ice from the driveway as soon as possible to prevent it from accumulating and causing damage. However, it’s important to do so carefully to avoid causing damage to the driveway.
Using a plastic shovel or snow blower is recommended, as metal shovels can scrape the surface and cause damage. Additionally, avoid using salt or other types of de-icing agents that can be harsh on concrete driveways. Instead, use sand or kitty litter to provide traction.
Repairing Damage
Even with preventative measures and careful snow removal, damage can still occur to concrete driveways during winter. Common types of damage include cracks and potholes.
It’s important to address these types of damage as soon as possible to prevent them from getting worse over time, or a concrete driveway replacement might be needed if the damage is unfixable. For small cracks, applying a concrete sealant can help prevent further damage.
For larger cracks or potholes, it may be necessary to patch the affected area with fresh concrete. Contact us today to discuss the condition of your concrete driveway and avoid the expensive route.
Long-Term Protection
In addition to taking preventative measures and addressing damage as it occurs, there are long-term strategies for protecting concrete driveways during winter. One option is to invest in a snow-melting system.
This type of system can be installed under the driveway to melt snow and ice as it falls, preventing it from accumulating and causing damage. Another option is to use a driveway cover.
These covers can be placed over the driveway to prevent snow and ice from accumulating, and they can be removed easily when it’s time to use the driveway.
Protecting a concrete driveway during winter is essential to prolonging its lifespan and preventing damage. By taking preventative measures before winter arrives, clearing snow and ice carefully, addressing damage as it occurs, and investing in long-term protection strategies, homeowners can keep their concrete driveways in great shape for many winters to come.
