Concrete surfaces are common in both residential and commercial settings, providing durability and a clean aesthetic. However, without proper maintenance, even the toughest concrete can deteriorate over time. One critical aspect of concrete care that often gets overlooked is sealing the expansion gaps.
What Are Expansion Gaps?
Expansion gaps, or joints, are spaces intentionally left between concrete slabs. They allow the concrete to expand and contract with temperature changes, preventing cracks and structural damage in the concrete slabs. While these gaps are essential for the longevity of the concrete, they also present a potential vulnerability.
Why Sealing Expansion Gaps Matters
- Prevents Water Infiltration: Unsealed expansion gaps can act as channels for water to penetrate beneath the concrete surface. During heavy rain water can seep into these gaps, leading to erosion of the underlying soil. Over time, this can cause the slabs to shift, settle unevenly, or even crack.
- Protects Against Freeze-Thaw Damage: In colder climates, the freeze-thaw cycle is a major concern. Water that enters the expansion gaps can freeze during cold weather, expanding and putting pressure on the concrete. Repeated freezing and thawing can result in significant damage, such as spalling or large cracks. Sealing the gaps helps prevent water from entering and freezing, thus protecting the integrity of the concrete.
- Reduces Weed Growth: Unsealed expansion gaps are prime real estate for weeds and other vegetation. Once weeds take root, they can force the concrete slabs apart, leading to further cracking and damage. Sealing these gaps creates a barrier that prevents weed seeds from taking hold, keeping your concrete surface clean and well-maintained.
- Enhances Appearance: A well-sealed expansion gap not only protects the concrete but also enhances its appearance. Sealed gaps create a uniform look, reducing the visibility of the joints and giving the surface a more polished and professional finish. This is especially important for commercial properties where curb appeal is critical.
- Increases Longevity of the Concrete: By preventing water infiltration, weed growth, and freeze-thaw damage, sealing expansion gaps significantly extends the lifespan of your concrete surfaces. This means fewer repairs and replacements over time, saving you money and ensuring that your concrete remains in top condition for years to come.
When to Seal Expansion Gaps
The best time to seal expansion gaps is after the concrete has fully cured, which typically takes about 28 days. It’s also important to ensure that the gaps are clean and dry before applying the sealant.
This first seal, however, won’t last long. It typically takes 3-4 years until the sealant breaks down and is no longer doing its job. This is where most people mess up: they remove the old seal and forget to re-seal. This leads to all of the problems listed above. While most people know they have to pressure wash their driveway, many don’t know you have to seal it, and even less know you should seal the expansion gaps.
This being said, whenever concrete is washed the expansion gaps are cleaned also, providing the perfect opportunity to seal them up. So next time you get your driveway pressure washed, keep this in mind!
Choosing the Right Sealant
Not all sealants are created equal. It’s important to choose a high-quality sealant designed for concrete expansion gaps. Look for products that offer flexibility, UV resistance, and durability. A good sealant should be able to withstand the natural movement of the concrete without cracking or peeling.
While this is a possible DIY project, we recommend hiring a professional. Professionals have experience in not only applying the sealant, but also knowing which sealant to use. This is the most important part of the process, as a poor-quality sealant is just as bad as not sealing it at all.
Conclusion
Sealing the expansion gaps in your concrete is an essential maintenance step that should not be overlooked. It protects against water damage, freeze-thaw cycles, and weed growth, while also enhancing the appearance and longevity of your concrete surfaces. By combining regular pressure washing with proper sealing, you can ensure that your concrete remains strong, durable, and visually appealing for years to come.
If you’re in the Pittsburgh area and want to leave it to the professionals, call/text 412-327-7411 or fill out our form here.
