Colored and stamped concrete can be a beautiful addition to your landscaping, but it needs extra care in winter. Ice thawing and freezing in the small crevices of the design can crack it and can make the pattern crumble, and many chemical de-icing options can stain. Here's what concrete contractors recommend to protect your stamped concrete from damage.

Shovel Correctly

Clear snow away from your concrete as soon as possible after it falls to prevent it from freezing and thawing on the concrete surface. A metal snow shovel can damage the designs, so use a plastic one. You can also schedule snow blowing services to remove it without scraping the concrete.

Prevent Stains

If ice does form, it can be a safety hazard. However, salt and other de-icing options will soak into the porous surface of the concrete unless it's properly sealed. Before cold weather hits, clean any dirt off your stamped concrete surface, then apply a concrete sealant. The sealant will help protect the area — but you should still use salt carefully, as the sealant will eventually wear away.

If it's too late to seal the area, there are other options besides chemical de-icing. Spread sand and gravel to create traction instead of trying to melt the ice. These options are safer for the material, and you can easily wash or shovel them away in the spring.

For sand and gravel in Soldotna, AK, as well as stamped concrete supplies, choose BEST Transit Mix. Since 1983, this third-generation company has offered quality supplies from their fully automated CON-E-CO® batch plant and provided prompt delivery using their fleet of 10 mixer trucks. Their range of colors, as well as their stains, forms, and sealers, will help you create and maintain beautiful hardscaping throughout your yard. To schedule a service, call (907) 262-6273, or visit their website to see a list of products.