Concrete Problems Caused by Winter Weather

It’s here. Winter. There are plenty of winter weather woes to consider as these chilly (sometimes downright freezing!) months pass, such as winter driving, heating bills, and bundling up to keep warm, that we do not often take the time to consider how winter affects our concrete surfaces outside under all that snow and ice! The truth is that concrete problems caused by winter weather can lead to sinking, settling, and damaged concrete come spring.

So, what are some of the culprits that cause these concrete problems?

Your Concrete & Winter Weather

Know the simple facts about ice, snow, and your concrete surfaces!

The Affect of Freeze and Thaw Cycles

Although it may not look like it, concrete is quite porous. That means that when water gets into the pores of your concrete surfaces and then freezes, it expands. This expansion can impact the overall strength of your concrete. As the frozen moisture thaws and slowly melts away, you may see cracking and flaking.

Over time, as freeze and thaw cycles repeat themselves, the chances of concrete problems such as sinking and settling concrete, cracks, and more become more likely.

Using Salt-Based Products to De-ice Your Concrete Surfaces

We often discuss trip and fall hazards here, so we understand why you may choose salt-based products to help clear driveways, sidewalks, and patios around your home.

While we appreciate the need to avoid accidents, the chemical makeup of these deicing products can cause concrete problems over time. Salt can cause your concrete to break down faster, leaving it vulnerable to moisture. This, along with the freeze-and-thaw cycles mentioned above, can expedite damage.

Instead, we suggest you look for de-icing agents that do not include salt. You can use several alternatives:

• Gravel or small stone

• Soot from your fireplace

• Sawdust

• Kitty litter

• Coffee grounds

Pro Lifting Solutions Offers Fixes for Your Concrete Problems

Even though weather can be unpredictable, and it is hard to know how much or how little your concrete may be affected, you can be sure that Pro Lifting Solutions has the know-how to fix your concrete problems. When that final thaw comes, we can do a comprehensive inspection of your concrete surfaces, including:

• Driveways

• Sidewalks

• Patios

• Concrete pool decks

• Garage & basement floors

• Parking lots

• and more!

Click here to learn how the concrete leveling process works to repair concrete problems. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or request a quote.