Seasonal maintenance is essential to ensure your landscape looks its best. As the chill of autumn air begins to circulate, we start our preparations to maintain and preserve our landscape, including our concrete additions. Concrete driveways, entryways, walkways, patios, courtyards, and verandas are examples of concrete additions exposed to climate changes and various weather elements. We at Stouffville Mobile Redimix would like to share a few tips and tricks that will help to extend the aesthetic appeal and structure of your concrete addition.
Curb appeal
For fall, our first tip is quite simple: switch out your summer lawn ornaments and décor for a few seasonal pieces. “Few” is the keyword; it is easy to oversaturate your landscape with festive decorations. However, concrete additions such as courtyards, entryway/veranda, walkway, or steps can look cluttered and chaotic with excessive décor. By keeping your décor simple, you will maintain your curb appeal.
Décor
The second tip is to remove heavy, bulky summer décor and furnishings. There are a few reasons why this is the first tip on the list. As the weather changes, strong winds, as well as other harsh weather elements, can knock over your décor. Knocked over décor and furnishings may scratch, chip, or dent the concrete surface. Minor abrasions will lead to further damage as moisture can find its way through the indentations. A clear surface will assist with curb appeal and allow you to inspect any damage caused by the previous season. Therefore, you can then take the appropriate action and call your concrete pouring professionals to replace and repair the area before winter.
Snow removal
Canadian weather is not always predictable; therefore, it is best always to be prepared. Of course, it is a bit too early to be discussing the effect snow has on concrete; however, it is not uncommon for winters weather to arrive earlier than expected. As tip number two suggests, removing décor and furnishings allows for a clear concrete surface to prevent abrasions. However, it is essential to keep a clear surface for easy snow removal as well. Tip number two, avoid leaving piles of snow on a concrete surface. The weight of the piled snow combined with excessive moisture and temperature fluctuations may cause cracking, scaling, and spalling. Ask us here at Stouffville Mobile Redimix how to care for poured concrete through the cold months.
Uneven concrete
Between now and winter, we recommend keeping an eye on your water drainage system. It is also recommended to pay attention to any areas that collect a significant amount of water, especially after a good rainfall. Pools of water indicate a shift has occurred, and your concrete may not be leveled. An uneven concrete surface should be addressed immediately. A cup or more of collected water will further contribute to the freeze-thaw cycle. Therefore, if you have noticed any pooling, do not hesitate to contact Stouffville Mobile Redimix.
We at Stouffville Mobile Redimix provide onsite concrete pouring. Mobile redimix concrete is perfectly batched with quality assurance. Therefore, the structure can withstand seasonal changes. Contact us today for more information!