Concrete Care 101: Cleaning and Sealing Before Winter Damage Begins

Concrete looks indestructible, but it’s surprisingly vulnerable to moisture. The freeze-thaw cycle of winter is concrete’s biggest enemy — and fall is your best chance to defend against it.

Here’s how professional cleaning and sealing can preserve your concrete, brick, and stone surfaces through the toughest weather ahead.

1. The Science Behind Freeze-Thaw Damage

When water seeps into unsealed concrete and freezes, it expands by nearly 9%. Over repeated cycles, this expansion creates cracks and surface flaking (known as spalling). Eventually, even the strongest slab starts to crumble.

2. Clean First, Seal Second

Before applying a sealer, it’s critical to start with a clean surface. Dirt, oil, and algae can block proper adhesion and trap moisture. TLC’s power washing removes all surface contaminants, leaving the concrete ready for deep sealing protection.

3. Choose the Right Sealer for Your Surface

A penetrating concrete sealer soaks in and bonds below the surface, providing invisible, long-term protection without changing the natural look. For decorative stamped concrete, a high-gloss acrylic sealer adds shine and enhances color while still shielding against water and salt.

4. The Cost of Skipping Sealing

Once cracks appear, repairs are far more expensive than prevention. Sealing your driveway, patio, or walkway this fall could add years of life and beauty — especially in high-salt areas or places exposed to snowmelt runoff.

Final Thoughts

Think of sealing as an insurance policy for your surfaces. Protecting concrete now ensures it looks great and stays strong through countless winters ahead.

TLC: Making It Easy serves Fort Wayne, Bluffton, Decatur, Berne, Van Wert, Marion, and Lima — helping homes and businesses stay clean, safe, and ready for the seasons ahead.
📞 Call 888-431-4704 or visit tlceasy.com to schedule your fall service.