A concrete patio is one of the most popular choices when it comes to patio material. It is affordable, efficient, and is very easy to maintain. Most concrete contractors in Miami will tell you that getting a concrete patio can be your best project this time of the pandemic.
Once your concrete company completes building your patio, here are the things that you can to make it last longer.
Maintaining a Concrete Patio
- It Starts with Proper Curing
Proper curing means giving your concrete patio enough time to dry. Most Miami concrete contractors understand the importance of this process hence you don’t have to worry if you hired professional Miami concrete contractors for the job. This is one of the reasons why making a DIY concrete patio is not advisable, there are things that only a professional can do properly such as the curing process.
- Clean your Patio Regularly
Have you noticed why some poorly maintained concrete surfaces have holes? It is the result of erosion or when soil and water pass the concrete’s surface, stay there for a time and wear away the minerals of concrete. The regular presence of soil and water can also lead to weaker concrete components that lead to crumbling.
To prevent such from happening, keep your concrete patio clean by cleaning it with a pressure washer at least once a week. Sweep away debris and food crumbles regularly. This will not just increase your concrete patio’s lifespan; it will also keep it enticing and clean.
- Seal Cracks and Repair Damages
A concrete patio is like a tooth. If you have a chipped tooth, germs and bacteria can easily get inside and ruin the entire tooth. Concrete patio contractors explain how water and dirt can get through the cracks and weaken the concrete’s foundation easily. Do not leave any cracks for some time. Seal it as soon as you see one.
For sealers, you can use a topical sealer or an integral sealer.
Topical sealers are also used to enhance the surface of a concrete patio as it comes with different designs. Topical sealers are used by many for their non-slip component and strong protection from oil, water, and small debris. As for integral sealers, they should be added as part of the concrete mix, making the concrete sturdier in the process.
- Have a Cover or a Roof on Your Patio
A roof cover won’t just increase your concrete patio’s shelf life. It also offers protection from the sun. With a roof cover, you can conveniently add some TV or stereo on your concrete patio without worrying that the rain will soak it wet.
Is It Safe to Remove Concrete Stains with a Chemical?
You can ask your concrete contractors Miami for their recommended stain removal chemicals if you are not sure which one to use. The most common chemicals used in cleaning concrete are muriatic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and oxalic acid. Some homeowners use natural remedies like citrus-based solvents and mild detergent.
You can brush your concrete with these chemicals to keep it clean and debris-free. Food stains are easy to remove but leave a food stain for a week and you might find yourself scrubbing heavily to take it off. The ‘prevention is better than cure’ dogma can be applied to your concrete patio as well. Clean stains as soon as possible. Leaving a stain for some time makes it tougher and can cause concrete discoloration.
Additional Steps to Maintain Your Patio
If you have pieces of furniture on your patio, the legs of your chairs and tables can scratch your concrete’s surface. You can add protection to your concrete patio by placing rugs under your pieces of furniture. If there will be spills, they won’t get directly into your concrete’s surface and the rugs will absorb it first.
Another maintenance tip that you can consider is the use of eco-friendly chemicals when cleaning your patio. Your concrete company might offer you ideas on what eco-friendly chemicals can be used to remove concrete stains. Vinegar and baking soda are among the top eco-friendly options when it comes to cleaning concrete surfaces.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining a concrete patio is not as hard as it sounds. You can do a routine of sweeping every day and doing a power spray once a week. You can also limit the traffic your concrete patio receives and remember to maintain the weight limit it can take. Do not place pieces of heavy furniture on your concrete patio.
With proper care and maintenance, you can find your concrete patio as one of the best additions you had to your home.
