Concrete Patio Maintenance Tips: The Ultimate Guide to Making It Last Longer

The longevity of various home structures and designs is a value that every Calgary homeowner yearns for. When we want long-lasting pathways, asphalt is usually the best option. However, when it comes to patios and other outdoor structures, concrete offers optimal durability and a variety of design options. 

But as with any home structure, regular maintenance is key to extending its lifespan. As a material, concrete is very low-maintenance. But there are still some things you can do to ensure your patio looks its best and lasts as long as possible. Read on to learn about our top tips here at TNA Concrete. 

The Importance of a Good Foundation 

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of patio maintenance, let’s talk about one of the most important aspects of any concrete structure: the foundation. 

A good foundation is key to a long-lasting patio (or any home structure, for that matter). Calgary’s climate can be tough on patios, so it’s important to make sure the foundation is up to code and able to withstand our harsh winters. 

So if you’re still in the process of building your patio, be sure to work with a Calgary concrete company that has a good reputation and is experienced in building strong foundations. 

Once you have a solid foundation, you can move on to the following tips for maintaining your patio.

Tips for Maintaining Your Concrete Patio 

Your patio might be low-maintenance, but that doesn’t mean you can neglect it altogether. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Clean It Regularly 

Erosion is a natural process that will, over time, break down even the strongest concrete. In a notoriously windy city like Calgary, this process may be accelerated due to the amount of dirt and debris that gets blown around. Not to mention, the winter thaw and spring rain can also cause further erosion. 

To combat this, it’s important to clean your patio regularly. You can do this with a regular broom or, for a deeper clean, a power washer. A good power washing every few months can help ensure your patio looks its best and lasts for years to come. Just be sure to use a gentle detergent and avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the concrete.

Apply Sealers

One of the best ways to protect your patio from Calgary’s weather is to seal it up. Concrete is a porous material, which means it can absorb water and other liquids. This can lead to cracking, flaking, and other damage. 

Sealing your patio will help to protect it from weather conditions and extend its lifespan. The standard rule of thumb is to reseal your patio every two to three years. 

But what exactly does sealing do? It essentially creates a barrier between your patio and the elements, helping to prevent water and other liquids from seeping in and causing damage.  

This is a task best left to the professionals, as they will have the experience and expertise to do it properly. You might be feeling handy and think you can do it yourself, but it’s always best to leave this one to the pros.

Install an Overhead Structure

Calgary’s weather can take a toll on your patio, but you can help to protect it with an overhead structure. This could be anything from an awning to a pergola to a full-blown permanent roof. 

An overhead structure will provide shade and shelter from the sun, wind, and rain. Even when the sun beats down on your patio or the wind picks up, your patio will be protected. 

This is an especially good idea if you have patio furniture or other outdoor accessories that you want to protect from the elements. 

Avoid Abrasive or Destructive Chemicals

The sealants applied on concrete patios are designed to resist wear and tear for the patio’s longevity. However, some heavy-duty and highly abrasive chemicals can eliminate or corrode the sheen prematurely. For instance, products with high contents of sulfates and ammonium nitrates attack concrete. This directly makes them harmful to your patio.

It would help if you would avoid applying deicing salts on your treated or stamped concrete. Most individuals love these salts because of their useful nature of clearing ice from walkways. However, the salts can damage your surface. It is advisable to avoid applying salts in the first winter following your concrete installation as the sealant is more vulnerable at this time.

Keep Your Concrete Patio Looking Its Best 

Concrete is, without a doubt, one of the best materials for patios. It’s durable, low-maintenance, and can withstand Calgary’s harsh weather conditions. But even concrete needs a little TLC from time to time. By following these tips, you can help to ensure your patio looks its best and lasts for years to come. 

If you need help with any concrete repairs, maintenance, and/or installation, be sure to contact the experts at TNA Concrete. We’re here to help you build and maintain a patio that you can enjoy for years to come. Feel free to contact us today.