7 Essential Concrete Maintenance Tips for St. Louis Homeowners

As St. Louis’s premier concrete contractors, we at St. Louis Concrete Works know that maintaining your concrete surfaces is crucial for longevity and appearance. Our unique climate, with its hot summers and freezing winters, can be tough on concrete. Here are seven essential tips to keep your concrete looking great year-round.

1. Seal Your Concrete Regularly

In St. Louis, sealing your concrete is not just a recommendation—it’s a necessity. Our freeze-thaw cycles can wreak havoc on unsealed concrete.

Seal your concrete every 2-3 years
Choose a sealer that offers UV protection for outdoor surfaces
Apply sealer when temperatures are between 50°F and 80°F for best results

2. Clean Spills Promptly

St. Louis’s famous BBQ sauce might taste great, but it can stain your concrete patio. Act fast to prevent stains:

Keep a bottle of concrete cleaner handy
For oil stains, use cat litter to absorb the excess before cleaning
Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the concrete surface

3. Manage Water Drainage

With our occasional heavy rains, proper drainage is crucial:

Ensure your concrete surfaces have a slight slope for water runoff
Keep gutters clean to prevent water from pooling on your concrete
Fill any low spots where water might collect

4. Address Cracks Early

Our soil conditions can sometimes lead to settling and cracking. Don’t ignore small cracks:

Fill hairline cracks with a concrete crack filler
For larger cracks, consult us for professional repair options
Monitor for new cracks after extreme temperature changes

5. Protect Against Freeze-Thaw Damage

St. Louis winters can be tough on concrete. Here’s how to protect your surfaces:

Avoid using de-icing chemicals on new concrete (less than a year old)
Use sand for traction instead of salt when possible
Remove snow promptly to prevent moisture penetration

Bonus Tip: Professional Inspection

Even with diligent maintenance, it’s wise to have your concrete professionally inspected periodically. At St. Louis Concrete Works, we offer comprehensive inspections to catch and address issues early.

Why Proper Maintenance Matters in St. Louis

Our city’s climate presents unique challenges for concrete:

Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause expansion and contraction
High humidity can lead to moisture-related issues
Intense summer heat can cause concrete to dry out and potentially crack

By following these maintenance tips, you’ll protect your investment and keep your concrete surfaces looking great for years to come.

Need Help with Your Concrete?

Whether you need a professional inspection, repair work, or are considering a new concrete project, St. Louis Concrete Works is here to help. Our team of experts understands the unique needs of St. Louis concrete and can provide tailored solutions for your property.

Contact Us for a Consultation

Remember, well-maintained concrete not only looks better but also lasts longer. With these tips and the help of St. Louis Concrete Works, your concrete will stand strong against whatever our Gateway City weather throws at it!