Maintaining Your Concrete in Midland's Unique Climate: A Homeowner's Guide

Understanding Midland’s Climate Impact on Concrete

As you may know, Midland has a semi-arid climate that can cause some challenges when it comes to maintaining your concrete.

The hot summer months will create some expansion and potential cracking due to the heat.

When we have an occasional free-thaw cycle in the winter months, it can create some surface damage.

In dry conditions, the concrete will lose moisture faster than normal.

When we get an occasional heavy rainfall, it creates erosion around the perimeter of the concrete slabs.

Let’s discuss ways to maintain your concrete so you can minimize these challenges.

1. Sealing: The Best Way to Defend Against Our Climate

Sealing your concrete is one of the most important things you can do in our climate.

• Why: It protects the concrete from moisture, staining, and damage from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
• How Often: Typically re-seal every two to three years; however, if you live in an area where you have a lot of foot traffic, you should seal your concrete once per year.

Tip:

Look for a product that contains UV protection so your concrete does not fade from the sun in Midland.

2. Cleaning: Beyond Looks

Cleaning your concrete is not only necessary to make it look good, but it also helps extend the life of your concrete.

• Why: It removes abrasive particles and stains.
• How:
• Sweep off loose debris from the surface.
• If you want to thoroughly clean your surface, use a low-pressure wash.
• If you have a difficult stain, use a neutral pH concrete cleaner.

Tip:

Never use a chemical that could potentially harm your concrete, including salts used to melt ice or snow.

3. Repairing Small Cracks Before They Become Large Problems

We all know that small cracks in concrete will eventually turn into large cracks and become much bigger problems in our climate.

• Why: Cracks allow water to enter the surface, which causes further damage, especially after a rare freezing event.
• What to Do:
• Use a concrete crack filler for hairline cracks.
• Call a contractor to repair larger cracks.

Tip:

Check your concrete at least twice each year (in the spring and fall) to find problems before they become serious.

4. Ensuring Good Drainage for Your Concrete

It is vital to ensure that water flows away from your concrete in Midland.

• Why: If you don’t, poor drainage will cause soil to erode under your concrete slab, causing it to settle and crack.
• What to Do:
• Provide a slight slope on your home’s foundation to direct water away from the foundation.
• Clean your gutters and direct them away from your concrete surface.
• Install a French drain if you have constant water flow in a particular area.

Tip:

Check your concrete surface and the surrounding area after heavy rain to see if there is standing water.

5. Keeping Your Expansion Joints Clear and Free From Debris

Don’t forget about the gaps between your concrete slabs!

• Why: These gaps allow the concrete to expand and contract with changing temperatures, preventing cracks.
• What to Do:
• Clear out any debris from the joints.
• Repair or replace the deteriorated joint filler.

Tip:

Use a polyurethane-based joint filler to get the best results in our climate.

Hire a Pro for Your Concrete Maintenance

Although doing the following DIY tasks will greatly help you maintain your concrete, at times you will need a professional to take care of it.

• Why: A professional will detect and fix problems while they are still minor.
• What We Offer:
• Professional cleaning and sealing services.
• Crack repair and surface restoration services.
• Concrete resurfacing service for worn-out areas.

At Midland Concrete Services, we want to help you protect your concrete investments. Not only will regular maintenance keep your concrete looking good, but it will also increase the lifespan of your concrete, saving you money in the long term.

Are you interested in getting a professional evaluation of your concrete surfaces? Contact us today. We want to work together to keep your concrete strong and beautiful, able to withstand whatever the West Texas weather gives us.