Patios are a fantastic addition to any home, even those with only a small amount of outdoor space, and can offer families the ideal space for entertaining during the summer months. While some folks choose other materials for the construction of their patio, many choose concrete patio slabs, and this is mainly due to their durability and ease of construction. However, despite their popularity and effectiveness, concrete patios can develop issues over time as a result of their continued exposure to the elements, and general usage. These issues typically manifest themselves in the form of cracks and irregularities, which are not just unsightly, but can be dangerous underfoot, too.
Thankfully, though, if you follow the steps below, you can help preserve your concrete patio and keep it looking good and functioning well, for many years to come:
Seal it
Sealing concrete has two primary benefits, and these are to keep the patio water resistant and less prone to damage, while also keeping chemicals out. Purchasing a concrete sealant that has stain resistant properties as well as being anti-slip, is a smart idea, and a local construction company or masonry contractor can easily do this for you. Note that this can be added to any concrete patio after it has been installed, so don’t worry if you didn’t ask your contractor to seal it at the time of installation.
Sealants can be effectively applied to a variety of different concrete paving options, including those that are polished, helping to preserve a patio for longer.
If you would like to add a protective layer of sealant to your concrete patio to help keep it looking and performing at its best, you can talk to the contractors who installed it, or ask a local masonry service.
Clean it
By cleaning dirt and spillages from your concrete patio as soon as they happen, you can not only keep it looking fresh and clean all year round, but you can help prevent moisture or mold from building up on the slabs. A build up of moisture or standing water anywhere on a patio during the winter months, can have disastrous consequences, particularly if ice begins to form in the cracks. The pressure caused by the ice can cause the concrete to crack, and not only does this look unsightly, but it can present a tripping hazard.
While cracks can be repaired (by replacing the affected slabs), this is a cost that can easily be avoided by keeping the patio clean and as dry as possible, all year round.
Use rugs and other coverings
If you have heavy furniture on your patio, it’s wise to be mindful of how you move it, as it could easily scratch or damage the surface of the concrete. One solution is to place decorative rugs and other durable floor coverings on the patio that can easily be lifted up and removed should you need to (such as during wet weather). In some instances, patio furniture can even cause the protective sealant to wear away and no longer be effective, placing the whole patio at risk of damage or deterioration.
By following these 3 simple steps, you can continue enjoying your concrete patio well into the future, or if you plan to sell your home in the future, these steps will help make sure the patio is in great condition when the property goes on the market.