Even if concrete is one of the most durable paving materials available on the market, it’s really tricky to lay and it is not indestructible. This means that it can still get damaged. So, no matter how well you laid the concrete or how well you took care of your pavement, cracks and other damages are inevitable. The most you can do is take care of the concrete pavement and immediately repair any damage.
So, how can you take care of your concrete pavement to reduce the chances of damage? Read on if you want to find out!
6 Tips to Prevent Concrete Damage
When Mixing Concrete Mixture, Be Careful With Water
Since mixing concrete is incredibly difficult, it can be tempting for new DIYers to add a little additional water to help hasten the process. However, you should know that even the tiniest amount of water in excess of the suggested level may cause the concrete to deteriorate. Once the mix is laid, the extra water evaporates, causing shrinkage and, eventually, cracking of the concrete.
Make sure you choose the appropriate concrete mix type for the work and pay close attention to the directions. Add water carefully if you need to add more to get rid of any dry particles.
Carefully Cure Your Concrete
It takes over a month for concrete to fully cure; the initial days after pouring are when the curing process is most delicate. Your actions throughout this timeframe will determine whether you develop shrinkage cracks. Severe cracking of the concrete, which can compromise the finish’s overall durability and quality, is also possible during this time frame. Keep your concrete moist and clear of heavy loads after pouring.
Inspect The Concrete Regularly for Damage
Another tip to prevent further damage to your concrete is regularly inspecting it. Have you noticed any cracks? Did your concrete cure properly after curing? By inspecting your concrete regularly for any damage, you can reduce any further damage because you will be able to repair it quickly. Moreover, maintenance is also key to keeping your concrete crack-free.
Repair Any Cracks and Holes Immediately
Don’t put off having any concrete damage repaired if you see any cracks or holes. To stop the damage from becoming severe, it is important to fix concrete damages as soon as possible. If you don’t fix cracks and holes in your concrete, you’re only making it easier for water and other components to get inside and ruin your concrete. As a result will be result, future repairs expensive.
Seal Your Concrete
The next best thing to do when your concrete sets is to seal it. Concrete is shielded from moisture and staining by concrete sealants. For decorative concrete, acrylic-resin sealers work well because they create a thin barrier against moisture. You can also utilize penetrating sealers, which penetrate the concrete’s surface.
Add Concrete Reinforcements
Last but not least, consider putting more support underneath your concrete to give it more strength. The lifespan of the concrete can be increased and the likelihood of future cracks decreased by using steel reinforcement or, for smaller projects, wire mesh grids.
Final Thoughts
Although concrete damage can sometimes be inevitable, there are ways to reduce any further damages from happening