Don’t Let Your Concrete Crack This Winter — Four Tips for Winterizing Your Concrete: Insights from a Cement Contractor in Northlake, Illinois

Concrete requires regular upkeep throughout the year to avoid unsightly cracks and potholes. However, there is one thing that will ruin your hard work faster than anything else: extreme cold weather.

If you live in an area with freezing winter temperatures (which goes for anyone living in the Northlake area), it is important to prepare your concrete before the first frost hits to prevent cracking and fading. To help you protect your investment, this cement contractor in Northlake, Illinois is going to provide some tips on how to winterize your concrete to prevent cracking.

Seal It Off

Sealing the concrete before winter is a must to prevent cracking. The process of sealing your concrete is simple, and it takes only a few hours. It is worth the time because when you seal your concrete, you prevent water from getting in and damaging the foundation of your home.

It is possible to seal your concrete yourself. However, it is recommended that you hire a professional cement contractor in Northlake, Illinois for best results.

Replace Any Damaged Cement Early

Concrete can crack for many different reasons. It may be due to the lack of cement, an improperly designed slab, a poorly executed installation process, or even extreme weather conditions. Whatever the cause, it is crucial to take action early to prevent further damage.

If you do notice any cracks in your concrete, it’s best to contact a professional cement contractor in Northlake, Illinois as soon as possible. They can assess the problem and recommend what needs to be done to fix it. The earlier you take care of the problem, the less extensive and expensive it will likely be.

Use Expansion Joints (If Necessary)

When freezing temperatures hit, if there is no space between your concrete slabs or surfaces that allow for movement due to freezing and thawing, cracks may appear in these areas as they expand and contract with changes in temperature or humidity levels.

Expansion joints (or control joints) are a simple solution. They provide room for expansion so that the surface does not crack, which keeps the structure from being damaged by the constant movement of the material.

Install A Containment Mat

Concrete is a porous surface that can easily absorb water. When water sits on your concrete, it seeps into the pores and freezes, expanding and breaking apart the grains of concrete — which leads to cracking. For your concrete to stay nice and beautiful this winter, you will want to install a containment mat.

A containment mat prevents snow and ice from getting onto the surface of your concrete by melting it before it has a chance to melt into the pores of your slab. If you need help installing one, do not hesitate to get in touch with a professional cement contractor in Northlake, Illinois.

Final Thoughts

If your concrete has been neglected over the last several months, there is a good chance it will crack during the colder weather that is soon to come. However, if you follow these tips, you can winterize your concrete and keep it looking great through the long, cold winter months. 

Looking for a Cement Contractor in Northlake, Illinois?

Do you need help preparing your concrete for the colder temperatures that are soon to arrive? If so, and if you’re looking for a professional cement contractor in Northlake, Illinois, look no further than the experts at At Via Galante Cement Contractors. We have over three decades of experience working with homeowners throughout the Northlake area, and we would be more than happy to make sure your concrete surfaces are properly winterized. Contact us today at (773) 589-9893 to get started.