If you are beginning to prep your home for winter, then you are probably going to focus on ensuring that your walls are well insulated and your furnace is in proper working order. However, an area you can’t afford to ignore is your driveway, especially if it is made of concrete. As the temperatures begin to drop, here is a closer look at why protecting your driveway during winter is essential, and how concrete sealing can help.

How Does Cold Weather Affect Your Driveway?

Concrete is a porous material, meaning that it naturally absorbs and retains water and other liquids. During the winter, this can prove especially problematic. As snow melts, the concrete driveway will absorb the water. However, when temperatures dip below freezing again, the water that has been absorbed will also start to freeze.

This recurring freeze-thaw process can cause significant damage to the concrete surface, resulting in cracks, flaking, and other cosmetic and structural issues. The problem gets worse if you use de-icing salt, as the salt content that seeps in with melted water can corrode the driveway’s steel reinforcement.

How Does Concrete Sealing Protect Your Driveway?

Because of these structural risks, it is recommended that those with concrete driveways have their surface sealed regularly. Acrylic-resin sealer is specifically designed to repel water and de-icing salts, and other sealers are available to address oil stains and other damage. By ensuring that your concrete won’t absorb the water or salt, the surface will be protected throughout the winter. Acrylic-resin sealer should generally be reapplied every one to three years, usually a month before the winter season begins.

From concrete sealing to basement waterproofing, you can count on Jaco Waterproofing in Westfield, IN, to keep your home safe and dry. Serving the Indianapolis, IN, and Cincinnati, OH, areas since 1972, their waterproofing technicians will provide timely, reliable work to address foundation repair issues and other leak-related tasks. Their licensed professionals are here to provide service 24/7 in case of unexpected emergencies. To learn more about their services or to request a free estimate, visit them online or call (317) 721-9379 today.