A Look at Some of the Factors That Cause Patio Damage

Spring is finally here, so it’s time to fire up the grill, get some sun, and start putting your patio to use again. But if your patio is covered in cracks, stains, and other signs of wear, you may want to explore repair and resurfacing with the help of a San Antonio concrete contractor. Here’s a look at what may have caused your patio to look so rundown in the first place.

Water Damage

One common cause for premature concrete degradation is excessive exposure to water caused by poor drainage. Patios near drainage pipes or without adequate grading may collect water, causing high levels of wear and fading. Excessive moisture around your patio may even cause it to shift within the soil, leading to unsightly cracks and uneven surfaces. Moisture can also attract tree root growth, which can apply pressure against your concrete patio leading to cracks and uneven surfaces.

Grease and Oil Staining

Using power tools, parking a vehicle, and even grilling over your concrete can lead to long-term damage. Oil and grease from these sources can permanently stain concrete surfaces, which are generally fairly porous. Staining can also be caused by moss and mold growth, which is exacerbated by the moisture issues described above.

Shrinkage and Expansion

A third cause of patio damage is shrinkage and expansion caused by changes in outdoor temperature. As the seasons change, your concrete patio will actually expand in the heat and shrink in the cold. Quick temperature shifts, such as those brought on by a sudden cold front or exposing a cold slab to warm water, can cause concrete to crack. Concrete slabs without adequate placement of spacers are at a higher risk for cracking from temperature changes because there is no buffer to reduce pressure in expanding slabs.

Concrete resurfacing is a great solution to all of these issues. In addition to repairing damage in your pre-existing slab, resurfacing can also create a high-end look and texture over your old patio. You’ll be ready for spring entertaining in no time!