Key Takeaways:
- Winters can be extra harsh for your concrete pavement.
- Some common problems are cracks, potholes, and uneven surfaces.
- Be careful about removing snow and ice, as this can cause further damage.
- Regularly maintain, repair, and seal to keep your concrete parking lot in top shape through the harsh winter weather.
Winters bring unique challenges for concrete parking lots, from freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall to sleet and ice. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to help protect your concrete pavement from winter’s worst.
Whether you own a small business or manage a large commercial parking lot, staying on top of any cracks or damage during the colder months is essential. Small cracks and potholes can quickly become much more significant problems, leading to costly repairs and disruptions in your daily operations.
Action Construction Asphalt & Concrete will tell you some common problems and top tips for properly maintaining your concrete parking lot and ensuring it is ready to withstand whatever winter throws.
1. Check for cracks
Checking your concrete parking lot for cracks should be your first step. Brittle, dry concrete is more prone to cracking, and these cracks will only worsen in colder weather. As the cold seeps in, the water absorbed into the concrete expands and contracts as temperatures change, which can cause cracks to widen and deepen. A homeowner doesn’t want a concrete parking lot riddled with cracks, as these will mess up your car’s finish and be eyesores.
2. Seal any cracks
Compared to asphalt sealing, concrete parking lot sealing is relatively easy. You can find concrete sealant at most hardware stores, and it’s a simple matter of applying the sealant. You can hire professionals to do the sealing to get the best results.
Some of the most common cracks that you may find in your concrete parking lot include edge cracks, shrinkage cracks, and load transfer cracks. The best remedy for concrete pavement cracks is to fill them in with a concrete crack filler or sealant.
3. Inspect the drainage
Long-term exposure of your concrete parking lot to heavy rains and snow can lead to the formation of puddles and ponding on your pavement. This can be highly damaging to your concrete and can result in cracks, potholes, or even the complete failure of your pavement.
Keeping an eye on your drainage is, therefore, essential to maintaining the integrity of your concrete parking lot. Check your storm drains regularly and ensure they are clear and working correctly. Remove any debris or obstacles that could impede water flow, and consider adding additional drainage channels if necessary.
4. Remove any snow and ice
You might fear snow for many reasons, but it doesn’t have to be a problem for your concrete parking lot. Removing snow and ice from the surface of your concrete pavement can help minimize any damage that weathering can cause.
Having a snow removal strategy in place to protect your concrete parking lot can help ensure that your pavement lasts for years. We suggest investing in a good quality ice-melting product to help speed up this process and keep your parking lot clear all winter.
5. Use de-icing products sparingly
You may be tempted to use de-icing products such as salt to keep your concrete parking lot safe during the winter, but it is crucial to do so sparingly. Salting your concrete pavement can cause damage to the surface, removing its strength and making it more susceptible to weathering.
Instead, focus on clearing snow and ice from your concrete parking lot with a broom or shovel, as this can help to keep the pavement safe without causing any damage. When you need to use de-icing products, opt for those specifically designed for concrete that can provide better results without causing harm.
6. Cover exposed areas
Some areas on your concrete parking lot may not be covered by asphalt or other pavement materials, such as curbs, driveways, and ramps. In these areas, it is essential to ensure that snow and ice are cleared regularly, as this can reduce the risk of slips and falls for your visitors.
Furthermore, these exposed regions make your concrete pavement more susceptible to damage from the weather, so it’s vital to maintain it. If this goes beyond your abilities, consider hiring a professional concrete paving contractor to take care of the job.
One of the best things you can do is keep an eye on the forecast and plan accordingly. If you know that a cold snap is coming, take steps to protect your parking lot.
7. Have a plan for repairs
The winter season can wreak havoc on your parking lot, so it’s essential to have a plan in place for repairs. If you sustain any damage, call a professional rather than attempting repairs yourself. Leaving everything to the last minute is not a good idea, as cold weather can significantly affect concrete and make repair work more difficult. Consequently, you’ll pay a lot more for patching and other repairs if they can even be done.
Benefits of Professional Help
When protecting your concrete parking lot, it’s best to leave the work to the professionals. Not only will they have the expertise and tools needed for effective repairs, but they can also help you create a maintenance plan that will keep your parking lot in tip-top shape all year round.
With other tasks like snow removal, de-icing, and sealcoating available, it’s a good idea to work with a professional concrete company for all your parking lot needs. So the next time you’re facing another cold and snowy winter, don’t let your concrete parking lot suffer – look out for it and protect it with the help of a skilled concrete company.
Concrete Solutions in San Antonio
Action Construction Asphalt & Concrete, serving San Antonio, TX, is your ultimate solution to all concrete-related problems. With your intention of keeping your concrete parking lot in its best condition, we assure to provide you with the most reliable and effective concrete solutions at a very reasonable cost.
