In a year full of uncertainties, one thing is for certain – winter is coming. The bad news is that often means extreme temperature fluctuations and increased precipitation. Those weather elements are tough enough on us, but they can be even tougher on concrete.
Freeze. Thaw. Repeat.
Dramatic temperature fluctuations cause freezing, thawing and refreezing many times throughout the winter season. We all know concrete is porous. As solid as it appears, liquids and gases can still pass through it. Water can also seep into hairline cracks. That water expands as it freezes, which enlarges the crack. The resulting expansion and contraction from repeated freeze-thaw cycles can negatively affect the strength and durability of commercial concrete.
Additional examples of winter damage to concrete include spalling and heaving. Spalling or pitting typically occurs from frequent freeze-thaw cycles or de-icing products containing chemicals that aren’t concrete friendly. Heaving occurs when the concrete is shifted by ground movement below it. This is more common in the winter when the ground is prone to freezing and expanding.
Think Twice About Replacement
The good news is epoxy-mortar solutions now give facility managers and building owners a viable alternative to tearing out and replacing damaged concrete.
Epoxy-mortar advantages include:
- 2-3 times stronger than standard concrete
- Available in a variety of colors to match your brand or enhance safety requirements
- Resistant to chemicals like gas, oil, and salt
- Repair or restoration solutions available, depending on aesthetic needs
Today’s epoxy-mortar products are not only stronger, less disruptive options, but they can often be less expensive as well. So, don’t despair . . . just sit back, relax and enjoy the beauty of the winter season.
