Three Best Practices for Maintaining Your Concrete Patio | Concord Concrete Contractor, Concord, NH

Sealing is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your patio against environmental damage. A quality sealer acts as a barrier, preventing moisture, stains, and UV damage, all of which can degrade the surface over time. We offer not only concrete contractor services, but also concrete sealing. Give us a call, or check out our epoxy floor coating page to learn more about how we can beautify your property and make it last a lifetime.

Choosing the Right Sealer: Select a high-quality concrete sealer tailored to your patio’s specific needs. Options include:

Penetrating Sealers: Provide deep protection against water and chemicals without changing the concrete’s appearance.

Acrylic Sealers: Form a protective layer on the surface, available in matte or glossy finishes to enhance the concrete’s look.

Epoxy Sealers: Provide a durable, long-lasting layer but are best suited for patios that won’t be exposed to extreme temperature changes.

Regular Application: Sealing should typically be done every 2-3 years, depending on the type of sealer and exposure levels. Applying a fresh coat of sealer every few years strengthens the concrete’s defenses.

Application Tips: Start with a clean, dry patio. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, applying the sealer evenly using a brush, roller, or sprayer. Allow adequate drying time before using the patio to ensure a proper seal. If you want assistance from professional epoxy flooring contractors with decades of experience, give the pros at Concord Concrete Contractors a call!

A well-sealed patio resists water, UV rays, and the freeze-thaw cycle, which helps prevent cracks and surface damage. This step is crucial for New Hampshire’s climate, where freeze-thaw cycles can be particularly harsh on outdoor surfaces.

Concrete is strong, but even it has weight limits. Overloading your patio can cause surface cracks, uneven settling, and even structural damage. To keep your patio intact, be mindful of heavy objects and seasonal weight considerations.

Weight Limits: Avoid placing very heavy items—like large planters, hot tubs, or heavy machinery—directly on the concrete. Even though concrete is durable, excessive weight in a concentrated area can cause cracking.

Furniture Tips: Use patio furniture with wide, flat legs to distribute weight evenly. Protective pads or coasters under heavy furniture can further reduce concentrated pressure, preventing surface dents and cracks.

Vehicle Restrictions: It’s best to avoid driving or parking vehicles on a concrete patio, as the concentrated weight can cause damage. If you need to move heavy items across the patio, consider using a dolly or equipment that distributes weight. Asphalt is notorious for warping and sinking over time, especially when your car sits in the exact same spot year after year. If you're looking for a more permanent solution rather than re-paving your driveway, call us or click here to learn about our concrete driveway contractor services.

Seasonal Adjustments: Winter can be particularly challenging for concrete patios. Avoid piling heavy snow on the surface, and use a plastic shovel for snow removal to avoid scratching the surface. Rather than using de-icing salts, which can damage the concrete, opt for sand to add traction.

By observing weight limits and seasonal precautions, you can prevent damage and keep your patio looking smooth and crack-free.