Winter is always a particularly treacherous time of year for concrete surfaces. Beyond the cycle of constant changes in extreme winter temperatures that cause the moisture in the concrete to freeze and thaw, which takes its toll on a concrete slab’s structural integrity, there are the countless chemicals, de-icers, and salt compounds that are used to treat snow and ice that can also wreak even more havoc on your slab’s lifespan.

If you have a plain, old, drab slab in need of beautification and winterizing, a professional can apply a new, stamped surface to your existing slab that not only gives it a new look, feel, and color, but offers better traction and safety during the winter months, when ice and precipitation can be particularly dangerous. If you opt to change the color of the concrete as part of the beautifying process, a color hardener can be used to not only preserve the added color, but help to make it more resilient to hazardous factors. Finally, a professionally applied sealant helps to block the penetration of moisture, dirt, and harmful chemicals such as de-icers, oil, grease, and other assorted automotive chemicals that drip from our vehicles. The application of concrete sealant also helps to make the surface easier to clean and keep clean.

If you have a newly renovated, stamped concrete surface, be sure to heed special caution when caring for it during the winter months. For example, be sure to use a plastic shovel instead of a metal one, if you should need to clear it of snow or ice. A metal shovel can do damage to the texture of the stamped concrete, whereas a plastic shovel will not. In addition, avoid using harsh chemicals or components when trying to de-ice your decorative concrete surface, as many ice melts are corrosive and can harm the surface of the decorative concrete. Rather than salt or chemicals to remove the ice, use a natural material such as sand for additional traction and safety when needed. It’s much less harmful and not necessarily in need of being swept or rinsed away afterward. 

Ultimately, if you’re unsure about what to use to de-ice your decorative concrete surface, give the helpful concrete experts at Concrete Resurfacing Products a call to help you figure out all the ins and outs of decorative concrete installation and maintenance for your patio, walkway, driveway, pool deck, garage, or even interior space. Locally-owned and operated, Concrete Resurfacing Productshas been renovating concrete surfaces for homeowners and business owners throughout all of Atlanta for well over 20 years now and are looking forward to helping you make your space even more beautiful and enjoyable. 

Call today for a FREE, no-obligation estimate on your particular project!