Snow removal can be performed on Patterned Concrete® with a plastic shovel just as you would on any other hard surface. Snow blowers can also be used, as the rotating blades do not touch the concrete surface. Make certain that the guides on the snow blower that actually do make contact with the concrete are not sharp to eliminate scratching of the surface.
If you are planning to have a truck with a blade clear snow on your driveway, make certain that there is a ‘plastic’ guard along the bottom of the blade to eliminate scratching of the surface.
Do NOT use any deicing products whatsoever on concrete during the first winter of installation. Begin using only ‘concrete friendly’ deicing products on your concrete starting the second winter. Never use any products containing magnesium chloride, nitrates, urea or sugar beets on concrete.
Try to keep your concrete clear of snow, as this will reduce the need for deicers altogether. Snow left on your driveway or front walks will melt on warmer days and then freeze up at night creating the need for deicers. Sprinkling a little ‘brick sand’ on these wet areas will help to absorb this moisture and will also aid with traction. It is generally good practice to use ‘brick sand’ on concrete at any time during the winter season, just as you see being used on city roads. Concrete friendly deicing products and brick sand can be purchased at most homebuilder supplies.
During some of the warmer winter days, Patterned Concrete® recommends rinsing down your concrete driveways, this will wash away or at least help to dilute salts and deicers that have been tracked in from daily driving.
Proud Members Of
