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Decorative concrete driveways and walkways are a fantastic addition that elevates a home’s curb appeal and boosts the overall property value. However, when winter weather strikes, maintenance can become a little trickier. If you’re not careful, you could chip away at the stamped concrete or ruin the seal that protects it. Below are a few best practices for removing snow.

Why You Should Shovel Decorative Concrete

Many people migrate towards using salt or chemical-based deicers because of their perceived convenience, but they actually lead to more headaches. The chemicals found in the deicers destroy the protective sealers and finishes that keep the stamped concrete slabs safe. Meanwhile, rock salt results in increased wear and tear that can worsen cracks.

Decorative ConcreteThe safest snow removal method is with a shovel. However, make sure to use only one made of plastic to avoid accidental chips. To prevent injury, keep your feet about hip-width apart and the shovel close to your body. Ideally, you’ll be pushing the snow more than lifting it up; however, if you to have to lift, bend at your knees and lift with your legs so you don’t hurt your back.

What Are the Other Options Besides Shoveling? 

While shoveling is the most effective, many people don’t want to or simply can’t do it every time it snows. Luckily, there are some other options that won’t harm your decorative concrete driveways and sidewalks. Before the snow starts falling, spread alfalfa meal, coffee grounds, or sugar beet juice onto the driveway. Then, spread more on top of the snow after it’s fallen.

These natural options are safer than chemical deicers and are still effective at melting the snow and ice. They also provide great nutrients to the surrounding landscaping when melted. There are also heated snow-melting mats that you can place down before the snow starts falling. These melt the snow as it falls to keep your concrete free of snow and ice.

 

If you need help maintaining your home’s decorative concrete this winter, contact the experts at Melvin Hubbard Concrete Construction in Broken Arrow, OK. For more than 15 years, their team of contractors has provided local homeowners with the professional maintenance they need to keep their decorative and colored concrete protected all year long. Request a free estimate by calling (918) 857-1163 or learn more about their services online.
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