Winter Concrete Maintenance: Driveways & Garage Pads

As winter settles in, concrete driveways and garage pads need attention to how they maintain their outdoor surfaces. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can cause damage if not properly managed. Knowing what to do and what to avoid can help preserve the integrity and appearance of your concrete surfaces.

Why Winter Maintenance is Important for Concrete

Concrete is durable, but it’s not impervious to the effects of winter weather. During cold months, moisture can seep into small cracks or pores in the concrete, and when the temperature drops, that moisture freezes and expands, causing the concrete to crack or spall (break apart). Additionally, repeated freezing and thawing cycles can weaken the surface over time.

Winter maintenance is essential to protect your concrete from these damaging effects and to ensure that your driveway or garage pad stays functional and safe during the colder months.

What to Use for Winter Concrete Maintenance

1. Snow Shovels or Plastic Snow Pushers

   • Always use a plastic or rubber-edged shovel to remove snow from your driveway and garage pad. Metal shovels can scratch and damage the concrete, especially if there's any ice underneath.

   • A snow pusher or plow with a plastic blade is a great option for large, flat areas, as it won’t harm the surface while efficiently clearing snow.

2. Concrete Sealers

   • Applying a concrete sealer before the winter season begins can help protect your concrete from water infiltration, which can lead to freezing and cracking. A high-quality sealer forms a protective barrier, making it harder for moisture to penetrate and damage the surface.

What NOT to Use on Concrete in Winter

1. Rock Salt (Sodium Chloride)

   • While rock salt is commonly used to melt ice, it can be highly detrimental to concrete. The salt can seep into cracks, exacerbating the freeze-thaw cycle and causing significant damage to the surface. Over time, salt can cause pitting and spalling, leading to a rough and uneven surface.

   • It should be noted, that if your home is under a New Home Warranty providers coverage, the use of salt products on your concrete surfaces voids the warranty on that component.

2. Chemical Ice Melts with Harmful Additives

   • Some ice melt products contain harmful additives like ammonium nitrate, which can damage concrete surfaces, especially when used regularly. Always read the label to ensure that the product is safe for use on concrete. Like Rock Salt or Sodium Chloride, the use of these products voids the NHW warranty on your exterior concrete surfaces.

3. Metal Scrapers or Shovels

   • Using metal tools to remove ice or snow can scratch and chip concrete, especially if you apply too much force or if there’s embedded gravel in the ice. Stick to plastic or rubber tools to avoid causing surface damage.

4. Pressure Washing (in Winter)

   • Pressure washing your concrete during the winter, especially when temperatures are near freezing, can cause water to seep into the surface and freeze. This can lead to cracks and damage over time. Wait until temperatures are consistently above freezing before pressure washing your concrete.

Additional Tips for Protecting Concrete in Winter

• Clear Snow Promptly: Try to remove snow and ice from your driveway or garage pad as soon as possible to prevent it from bonding to the surface and becoming more difficult to remove later.

• Avoid Water Accumulation: Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear to prevent water from accumulating and freezing on the driveway. Proper drainage is essential for preventing winter damage.

• Inspect the Surface: Regularly inspect your concrete for cracks or damage. If you find any, fill them promptly with a concrete patching product to prevent water from seeping in and causing more damage.

Conclusion

Winter maintenance for your concrete driveway and garage pad is vital for extending the life of your surfaces and maintaining their safety and functionality. By using the right tools, materials, and techniques, you can protect your investment from the harsh elements of winter. Avoid using harmful substances like rock salt or metal tools, and opt for safer alternatives like calcium chloride, plastic shovels, and concrete sealers. With proper care, your concrete surfaces will continue to serve you well for many winters to come.