Deicing Agents Deicing agents can be very harmful to concrete. Some products, such as salt, lower water’s freezing temperatures allowing it to penetrate concrete’s porous surface. As temperatures drop, water can refreeze, expand and pop the concrete’s surface. Other products react chemically with the cement in concrete, which causes accelerated surface deterioration. Although there are products that claim to be concrete friendly, they are not. The best way to protect your investment, especially early in its lifecycle, is to avoid using such products and substitute a sand or gravel mixture instead. Allowing Proper Cure Time In most cases, no working load should be applied to concrete for seven days. The curing period can be shortened or extended based on factors such as temperature, humidity and admixtures used. It is important to ask your contractor how long you should remain off of the new concrete. If you apply a load to it too soon, it may cause structural damage. Sealing and Coatings Depending on how you intend to use your concrete, it may be beneficial to add a special sealer or coating to it. Sealers and coatings can help protect the slab from water penetration or add impact resistance. They can even change the color of the slab if you desire. A reputable concrete contractor will be able to help you determine if your concrete could benefit from one of the many products available. Preventing Undermining Even the strongest concrete will give out over time if there is nothing supporting it. It is extremely important for concrete that is placed in areas where water flows to be well sealed. If water is able to get beneath the pavement and washout the aggregate supporting it, in time that concrete will fail and create a dangerous hole. It is important to address these areas to prevent the need for costly repairs. Cleaning Concrete From time to time, concrete driveways or walkways may require cleaning. Using a mild dish soap and a soft-bristled brush with some warm water will help lessen the appearance of stains caused by petroleum-based products. Caustic cleaners are not good products to use as they can etch and damage the surface of concrete. A pressure washer may be used as well, but care must be taken not to use too much pressure as this may damage the concrete’s surface. Drainage It is important to make sure water runs freely off of concrete slabs. Trapped water can find its way underneath the slab and soften the aggregate base, which compromises its integrity and diminishes the support it gives. Wet conditions under concrete can also cause frost movement that may crack or severely damage it. Keep flow lines free of dirt, snow or ice to minimize the opportunity for water to penetrate to the aggregate below.