Concrete cracks may begin as tiny cracks, but increase rapidly, which is why they must be maintained seasonally. Also, your foundation and concrete can be weakened by weather changes, such as heat, rain and freezing. Moving soil and moisture also cause damage.
This blog will present you with easy seasonal tips to maintain your concrete and foundation throughout the year.
Why Concrete and Foundation Maintenance Is Key
Foundation and concrete maintenance is a concern for every house. Weather may lead to cracks, shifts and water damage over time. The ground expanding in hot months can stress your foundation. During cold seasons concrete may shrink and crack. Small problems become big repairs, unless they are taken care of early.
When your home is well maintained, it is safe and stable. It also protects you against loss of money and saves you money in the long run. Inspecting your foundation and concrete every season will help you detect issues early. Basic measures, such as sealing cracks or providing better drainage, can go a long way, making your home strong all year round.
Expert Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Concrete and Foundations
Your home’s concrete and foundation should be maintained. These tips from experts will help you make your home as strong as possible.
1. Inspect for Winter Damage—Spring Maintenance Tips
Inspect concrete and foundation surfaces after winter, and look out for cracks. Freezing and thawing may damage walls, driveways and walkways.
Check for edges or surfaces that are uneven or crumbling. Even tiny cracks will enlarge when neglected. Note any apparent damage and book repairs before it is too late, as the temperature warms up.
2. Clean and Reseal Surfaces—Spring Maintenance Tips
A power washer can remove salt, dirt and grime that linger from winter. Such materials have the potential to weaken concrete.
After the power wash has fully dried, add a coat of concrete sealant. Sealing helps protect against spring rain and future wear, keeping your concrete clean and in good shape year round.
3. Improve Drainage—Spring Maintenance Tips
Make sure that downspouts and gutters are free of debris and leaves. Direct water away from your home’s foundation. Repair places where water collects or the ground remains wet.
Proper drainage eliminates foundation erosion and cracks. It is also effective in ensuring that basements do not get wet during spring rains.
4. Monitor for Soil Expansion—Summer Maintenance Tips
Clay soil expands with hot weather and may push against foundations. Move around your house, checking for sloping or uneven surfaces.
Have any cracks examined. Apply soaker hoses, to maintain evenly moist soil. This will ease the load on your foundation and prevent breakage due to moving ground.
5. Protect Against UV Damage—Summer Maintenance Tips
Concrete may be worn out by sunlight. Seal driveways and walkways, to block UV rays and prevent fading.
It is also advisable not to park heavy vehicles on unsealed concrete, because heat may soften the surface. Sealing concrete during summer makes it last longer and minimizes the risk of damage.
6. Look for Insect Activity—Summer Maintenance Tips
The activity of termites, ants and other pests is higher during summer. Check your foundation, to see whether there are small openings or cracks.
Close any openings, to exclude bugs. Relocate firewood and mulch away from the base of your home. Having the area clean will minimize wetness and keep your house safe against insects.
7. Prepare for Freeze-Thaw Cycles—Fall Maintenance Tips
The most appropriate time to seal cracks on your concrete is during the fall. This aids in preventing water from freezing during the winter. Water that enters cracks may swell and increase damage.
Also, remove furniture and heavy planters from the surface. This avoids pressure spots or marks in the cold months. Pretreatment extends the life of your concrete.
8. Clean and Clear Debris—Fall Maintenance Tips
Leaves that fall may retain water and discolor concrete. Clear walkways, patios and driveways with a leaf blower or broom. In addition, check for leaf buildup on foundation edges. Wet leaves can retain water against the structure.
Clean out foundation vents, where you have them; ensure that they are not blocked. Dry surfaces that are clear are more resistant to fall rains and early frost.
9. Check Foundation Grading—Fall Maintenance Tips
Ensure that the land around your house is sloped away from the foundation. This will not allow water to accumulate around your walls, when it rains in the fall.
Additional soil can be used to fill low areas. Good grading protects the foundation against cracks and erosion. It is an easy, yet effective means of securing your house. Inspect grading prior to the winter.
10. Prevent Ice Dams and Water Intrusion—Winter Maintenance Tips
Frozen gutters may form ice dams. These push water underneath your roof and into your walls. Clean gutters before the first snowfall.
Additionally, insulate your attic, to minimize warm air that melts roof snow. The lesser the melting, the fewer ice dams there are. These minor chores can avoid extensive water damage later in the season.
11. Avoid Using Harsh Deicers—Winter Maintenance Tips
Deicing chemicals may dissolve concrete surfaces. Instead, apply sand or concrete safe ice melt. Sweep or shovel snow that has fallen, as soon as possible.
This minimizes the penetration of moisture on the surface. A dry surface will not easily crack, as the temperatures fall. Prevent winter storm damage to your concrete.
12. Monitor Interior Humidity—Winter Maintenance Tips
Excess moisture within can damage your foundation. Put a dehumidifier in the basement or crawl space. Install vapor barriers where necessary, in order to maintain low humidity.
Look at the walls: Is there any condensation or frost? That is a signal. Low humidity will prevent structural damage and mold, keeping your house safer and more comfortable.
Conclusion
Seasonal maintenance makes your foundation and concrete robust. Little things, such as filling cracks and inspecting drainage, can avert major repairs. Each season poses various risks; however, with proper maintenance, you will be able to secure your home throughout the year. Waiting until damage occurs is not a good idea. Contact Concrete PRO now, for professional assistance and a sense of security.