Concrete Tips Heading Into Winter

by Stuart Reed

• When it snows, remove snow as soon as possible to protect the surface of the concrete from chipping and breaking.
• Do not use de-icing salts! Even if the salt bag says it is safe for concrete, there is not such thing. Our post “Lowering your salt intake isn’t just for humans“ provides more information on the harm salt does to concrete.
• For traction, use silica sand or play sand.
• To prepare decorative or colored concrete for winter, use a high gloss acrylic sealer.  This will keep the color true and protect the concrete from freeze-thaw damage.  It will also make it easier to remove snow.
• If you’re laying new concrete, use 4500 psi concrete with two coats of cure and seal to ensure adequate strength and protection of the installed concrete heading into colder weather.