How Do You Take Care of Concrete?
Concrete is one of the most durable building materials on the planet, but that doesn’t mean it’s maintenance-free. Whether it’s your driveway, patio, foundation, or sidewalk, knowing how to take care of concrete can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and help your surfaces last decades longer. We’re going to cover the most common concrete problems, what causes them, how to fix or prevent them, and why hiring a professional matters.
Common Concrete Issues and Their Causes
Even well-installed concrete can experience wear and damage over time. Here are the most frequent problems homeowners encounter:
1. Cracking
Cause: Shrinkage during curing, ground movement, heavy loads, or freeze-thaw cycles.
Prevention: Proper joint spacing, high-quality materials, consistent curing, and a solid subbase.
Solution: Small cracks can be filled with epoxy or polyurethane sealant. Larger or structural cracks may require patching or even slab replacement.
2. Spalling (Surface Flaking or Chipping)
Cause: Freeze-thaw cycles, poor finishing techniques, or the use of deicing salts.
Prevention: Use air-entrained concrete in freeze-prone areas, seal surfaces regularly, and avoid salt-based deicers.
Solution: Grind and resurface the affected area or apply a concrete overlay for more severe damage.
3. Staining and Discoloration
Cause: Oil leaks, rust from metal, organic debris, or inconsistent curing.
Prevention: Seal concrete to resist penetration of oils and contaminants, and maintain clean surfaces.
Solution: Pressure washing, chemical cleaners, or specialized stain removers. Severe staining may require resurfacing.
4. Scaling and Dusting
Cause: Weak surface caused by excess water in the mix, early finishing, or poor curing.
Prevention: Use proper water-cement ratios, avoid over-finishing, and ensure adequate curing.
Solution: Apply a resurfacing product or concrete hardener to restore the surface.
5. Settling or Uneven Slabs
Cause: Poor subgrade preparation or soil erosion underneath the slab.
Prevention: Proper compaction before pouring and good site drainage.
Solution: Professional concrete leveling (mudjacking or polyjacking) or replacement if settling is severe.
Concrete Maintenance Tips
So, how do you take care of concrete and avoid these problems in the first place?
✅ Seal Your Concrete – Apply a concrete sealer every 2–3 years to protect against water, stains, and freeze-thaw damage.
✅ Keep It Clean – Regularly sweep and wash your concrete surfaces to prevent buildup of debris and stains.
✅ Avoid Harsh Chemicals – Skip the deicers with salt; use sand or calcium magnesium acetate instead.
✅ Fix Minor Issues Quickly – Small cracks and surface wear are easier and cheaper to fix when caught early.
✅ Ensure Proper Drainage – Prevent standing water near concrete to avoid erosion and freeze-thaw damage.
Risks of DIY and Unqualified Contractors
Concrete may seem straightforward, but the wrong materials or techniques can lead to long-term issues. Here’s why trying to repair or install concrete without proper experience can be risky:
❌ Improper mixing ratios can result in weak concrete that’s prone to crumbling.
❌ Inadequate subbase prep can cause cracking or settling.
❌ Incorrect timing during curing and finishing can lead to scaling, dusting, or uneven surfaces.
❌ Lack of proper reinforcement can reduce the lifespan and safety of structural concrete.
Similarly, hiring unqualified or underpriced contractors can cost you more in the long run. Low bids often mean:
Skimping on materials
Ignoring best practices
No warranties or follow-up support
Why Hire a Professional Masonry Contractor
When it comes to concrete care and repair, trust the experts. At Force Masonry Construction, we:
Assess the root cause of the issue
Recommend lasting, cost-effective solutions
Use high-quality materials and best practices
Back our work with professionalism and experience
The Bottom Line
If you’ve ever wondered how do you take care of concrete, the answer is: stay proactive, address issues early, and work with professionals you can trust. With the right care and expert support, your concrete surfaces can stay strong, safe, and beautiful for decades.
Contact Force Masonry Construction today to schedule your concrete inspection or repair service.
