Concrete is a tough surface that can take a beating and keep on going, which is why concrete floor care is essential.
However, exposing your concrete to certain things can shorten the time it takes for it to become damaged and worn out. There is proper care and maintenance that goes into owning your own concrete flooring. If you are new to having your own concrete and aren’t sure where to start, this one’s for you. Concrete Floor Care 101: What you need to avoid.
Car Parking
If you have fresh concrete poured and set before winter, do not park any cars on it. The first winter for your concrete is the most crucial and you want to make sure to avoid parking vehicles on it during this time.
Ice Melt
Items used to de-ice driveways and sidewalks can actually do more harm than good. Avoid rock salt where you can, and use sand instead. Especially during the first winter, avoid de-icing agents with Ammonium Sulphate or Ammonium Nitrate. These ice melts do the job, but they also damage concrete far harsher than the rate they eliminate snow and ice.
Sealing
Sealing is a protection for your concrete against any harsh element that could break it down. All concrete flooring + driveways should be sealed to ensure a long life. Ideally, concrete driveways should be sealed every 3-5 years. Since we live in Utah and survive the harsh winter conditions- every 1-2 years is the best sealing maintenance in this climate.
Uneven Levels
Notice any puddles or bird baths that you can see on your new poured concrete. These could be a potential hazard to your flooring and cause other issues in the future. Consider the size of the puddle. If it’s 2-3 feet in diameter or larger—it is best to get it fixed now before any other damage occurs.
Snow Plowing
A tip for clearing off your cement or driveway in the winter with any vehicle is to use chains. The unwanted spinning of tires can occur if they are not properly chained. Although it may just be cosmetic damage and be sore on the eyes, you cannot fix burned tire marks on your cement.
Curing
Follow the standard time limits after pouring your concrete to allow it to set up nicely and evenly. This process is termed “ Curing”. The cement needs to settle and should not be used for at least one week for normal use and up to a month for heavier traffic use. Instilling this tip for your concrete floor care will lengthen the service life of your concrete so you can enjoy it longer with fewer issues.
Contact Hard Rock Concrete Coatings
Here at Hard Rock Concrete Coatings, we are your concrete floor care experts. We specialize in everything from acid staining, waterproof decking, and epoxy coatings to concrete sealing, repairs, and unique custom concrete countertops. We’re based in Riverton, Utah, and serve the greater Salt Lake County area. Give us a call at (801) 918-3656. Contact us today!
