Pattern Concrete: Maintenance & Care

Pattern concrete has become one of the most popular finishes for many homeowners due to its durability, endurance, and elegant finish. In fact, it can be even more durable than standard concrete if a colour hardener has been applied to the surface as it makes it stronger and more resistant to water penetration and erosion.

While pattern concrete is generally a low-maintenance material, routine care can enhance its visual appeal and help extend its lifespan. The amount of maintenance your pattern concrete needs will vary according to the exposure conditions, climate, and amount of traffic it receives. Find out how properly cleaning and sealing your concrete can improve its aesthetic appeal and longevity.

Cleaning

Cleaning your pattern concrete is relatively simple but it can really help maintain its appearance. Make sure you sweep and hose down your concrete at least once a year to avoid accumulation of debris and remove any buildup of dirt, grime, or rust. For more stubborn stains like tire marks or oil stains, try scrubbing the surface with a mild detergent diluted in water or use a pressure washer. Ensure you rinse down the surface thoroughly to avoid any white soap residue when it dries. If you don’t want to wait 24 hours, you can use a leaf blower to speed up the drying process.

Sealing

Periodic sealing is the best way to protect your concrete from moisture penetration, extreme cold, and abrasion. While sealers are used during installation to protect against potential damage, reapplying sealer helps to reinforce protection and maintain the polish and colour of the concrete as it tends to lose its lustre over time. To prolong the life of your pattern concrete, get it sealed at least once every couple of years to manage the wear and tear, and preserve your initial investment. Your seal tech technician will be able to advise you which type of sealer is best for you.

Other Protective Measures

If you have a pattern concrete patio, frequent movement of furniture can mark and scratch your concrete. You may want to consider attaching plastic glides to the bottom of your furniture to help avoid abrasions and damage. On interior floors subject to lots of traffic, be especially diligent with maintaining the sealed surface to prevent wear patterns. In addition, applying a floor wax or polish can provide extra protection and serve as a shock absorber.

Also, be careful with using deicing salts during the first winter after the concrete is installed. Sealers for decorative concrete will often fail in areas where deicing salts are applied.

Concrete pouring and installation is no easy task, but cleaning, curing, and sealing is even more specialized and thus, can cause larger problems if not done correctly. As a result, it’s wise to leave it to the experts. If you live in the Greater Toronto Area contact Seal Tech Inc. for all your pattern concrete maintenance needs from power washing, to sealing, and staining. Give us a call at 416-966-4200 or get a free online estimate for your home or business.