The Impacts of Weather on Concrete

Weather conditions impact concrete in a few ways, depending on the severity and duration of exposure. Temperature fluctuations, moisture levels, and wind could cause considerable wear and tear on your equipment.

The effects of different weather conditions on concrete surfaces are broken down below.

How Weather Affects Concrete

Concrete is a strong and durable material which cannot be weathered. Over time, exposure to various weather conditions may cause deterioration, weakening, and aesthetic damage. From extreme temperatures to heavy rainfall and strong winds, environmental factors can make concrete crack, erode, or discolor.

How weather affects concrete can help homeowners and property managers to take preventive measures to extend its life and keep it structurally sound.

Cold Weather

Freeze-Thaw Cycles.

Thermal Expansion and Contraction.

Fluctuating temperatures in winter can also cause concrete to expand and contract. Cold temperatures cause concrete to contract, and heat causes it to expand. Over time, this movement can produce stress fractures that weaken the material and make it prone to cracking and structural problems.

Rain and Moisture

Water Infiltration and Erosion.

Efflorescence.

Hot Weather and Sun Exposure

Surface Degradation.

High temperatures and direct sunlight can accelerate the deterioration of concrete surfaces. Prolonged heat exposure can result in dehydration, surface shrinkage and increased brittleness. This can lead to cracking and scaling, especially if the concrete was not properly cured.

Fading and Discoloration.

UV rays from the sun cause concrete surfaces to fade and lose their color. This is especially noticeable in decorative or stained concrete. This intense heat can also degrade surface sealants over time, leaving the concrete open to moisture and other environmental damage.

Wind and Storm Damage

Physical Impact.

Winds and storms can blow debris, tree branches and other objects into concrete surfaces, causing chips, cracks or fractures. Strong storms with heavy rain and wind may also cause the soil underneath to become loose, making concrete foundations unstable.

Erosion and Surface Wear.

Tips for Protecting and Maintaining Concrete

Regular Inspections

• Identify Early Signs of Damage - Routine inspections catch small cracks, chips, or areas of deterioration before they become major problems. Checking concrete surfaces seasonally helps to correct damage if it occurs.



• Monitor for Moisture Problems - Watching moisture buildup can help prevent long-term damage. Look for standing water, mold growth or efflorescence - all signs of excessive moisture retention.
  

Proper Sealing and Waterproofing

• Use a High-Quality Sealant - Sealing concrete prevents moisture from getting into the concrete, preventing UV damage, and chemical exposure. A good sealant will resist cracking, staining, and erosion.



• Apply Waterproofing Treatments - For concrete surfaces that are exposed to frequent moisture, a waterproofing treatment can provide additional protection. These treatments prevent water infiltration and reduce freeze-thaw damage and efflorescence.
  

Temperature Management

• Protect from Freeze-Thaw Damage - Using de-icing alternatives such as sand or calcium magnesium acetate instead of traditional rock salt can reduce freeze-thaw damage. Covering exposed concrete in extreme winter conditions can also help keep it in place.



• Manage Thermal Expansion - The expansion joints in concrete structures allow controlled movement and reduce the risk of stress fractures caused by temperature variations. These joints absorb expansion and contraction forces and prevent major cracks.
  

Effective Drainage Solutions

• Make Sure You Have Proper Drainage Systems - One of the biggest threats to concrete longevity is standing water. A good drainage system that includes gutters, downspouts, and grading directs water away from concrete surfaces.

• Runoff Slope Surfaces for Water Runoff - Concrete patios, driveways and sidewalks should be slightly sloped to allow water runoff. This prevents water from accumulating and causing erosion and freeze-thaw damage.
  

Professional Repair and Restoration

• Address Major Damage Promptly - If significant cracks, sinking, or deterioration are present, professional repair is recommended. Concrete may need leveling, patching, and resurfacing to restore its strength and appearance.

• Consider Preventive Maintenance - Regular maintenance by concrete professionals can extend the life of your surfaces. This may include reapplying sealants, checking foundation stability, and strengthening weak areas.
  

Conclusion

Weather affects the durability and condition of concrete structures. From freezing winters to hot summers, contact with various environmental elements can cause degradation, discoloration, erosion, and cracking.

But proper maintenance, sealing, and drainage can extend the life of your concrete surfaces. Regular inspections and timely repairs keep minor problems from becoming major problems.

By taking measures to protect concrete from weather damage, you can keep it strong, lasting and looking for years to come.