The Effects of Deep Freezes on Concrete and How We Can Fix It
The Effects of Deep Freezes on Concrete and How We Can Fix It
Winter can be a challenging season for homeowners, especially when temperatures plunge below freezing. One often-overlooked area of concern during these deep freezes is your concrete surfaces. From driveways and sidewalks to basement floors and foundations, concrete is susceptible to damage caused by harsh winter conditions. Let’s dive into what can happen to your concrete after a deep freeze and how Keystone Basement Systems can help.
How Deep Freezes Damage Concrete
Concrete is a durable material, but it is not immune to the effects of freezing temperatures. Here are some common ways that deep freezes can affect your concrete:
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Cracking Due to Freeze-Thaw Cycles Concrete is porous, meaning it absorbs water. When temperatures drop below freezing, the water within the concrete freezes and expands. This expansion puts pressure on the surrounding material, leading to cracks over time. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles exacerbate the issue, causing small cracks to grow larger.
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Spalling and Surface Damage Spalling occurs when the top layer of concrete flakes off, exposing the aggregate beneath. This can happen when water freezes in the pores of the concrete, causing pieces of the surface to break away. De-icing salts, often used to melt ice, can accelerate this process by increasing the moisture content in the concrete.
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Foundation Shifts Frost heave is another common problem. It occurs when the soil beneath your concrete freezes and expands, pushing the concrete upward. This can lead to uneven surfaces, foundation cracks, and potential structural issues for your home.
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Increased Vulnerability to Moisture Once cracks or spalling occur, the concrete becomes more susceptible to moisture infiltration. When this moisture freezes, it worsens the damage, creating a vicious cycle of deterioration.
How Keystone Basement Systems Can Help
At Keystone Basement Systems, we specialize in repairing and protecting concrete to withstand harsh winter conditions. Here’s how we can address and fix these issues:
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Crack Repair Our team uses advanced sealants and injection techniques to repair cracks in your concrete. These materials are designed to be flexible, ensuring they can expand and contract with temperature changes without reopening.
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Waterproof Coatings Applying a waterproof coating to your concrete can prevent water from seeping into its pores. This helps reduce the risk of freeze-thaw damage and extends the lifespan of your surfaces.
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Foundation Stabilization If frost heave has caused foundation shifts, we offer solutions like helical piers and EverBrace systems to stabilize and reinforce your foundation. These methods provide long-term stability and prevent further movement.
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Drainage Solutions Proper drainage is essential to prevent water accumulation around your concrete. Our team can install drainage systems, such as WaterGuard, to redirect water away from your home and concrete surfaces.
Proactive Steps to Protect Your Concrete
While Keystone Basement Systems is here to repair damage, prevention is always the best approach. Here are some tips to protect your concrete during winter:
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Seal your concrete surfaces before winter to reduce water absorption.
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Ensure proper drainage around your home to prevent water pooling.
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Schedule regular inspections to catch small issues before they become major problems.
Why Choose Keystone Basement Systems?
With years of experience in basement waterproofing, foundation repair, and concrete protection, Keystone Basement Systems is your trusted partner for maintaining your home’s structural integrity. Our team uses industry-leading products and techniques to deliver durable, long-lasting results. Whether you’re dealing with cracks, spalling, or foundation shifts, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t let winter take a toll on your concrete. Contact Keystone Basement Systems today for a free inspection and let us help you keep your home safe and secure, no matter the season.