How to Protect Your Concrete from Freeze-Thaw and De-Icer Damage

Denver can swing above and below freezing many times in a single winter. Each cycle lets water get into concrete, freeze, expand and stress the surface. Here's how to protect your investment.

1. Seal your concrete

A quality penetrating sealer reduces how much water and salt soak in. Reapply as recommended for the product, especially on driveways and stamped surfaces.

2. Be careful with de-icers

• Avoid rock salt on concrete, especially in its first winter.
• Never use ammonium-based de-icers on concrete.
• Use sand for traction when possible.

3. Shovel early

Removing snow before it's packed down means less ice and less need for chemicals. Use a plastic blade to avoid scraping the surface.

4. Keep water moving away

Point downspouts away from slabs and fix low spots where water pools and freezes.

5. Watch for car slush

Slush that falls off cars carries road salt. Rinse the driveway on warmer days during winter.

Already seeing flaking or cracks? We repair and replace damaged concrete across the Denver metro. Free estimate: (720) 572-0098.

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