Concrete is known for its high density, which makes it less likely to become icy during cold weather or wet weather. However, concrete is also very smooth and hard, making it prone to slipping hazards under certain conditions. So are concrete driveways slippery in Fort Wayne? The short answer to this question is yes. For example, spilled oil or grease on a concrete driveway can make it quite slippery, making it important to clean up any spills right away. Additionally, snow and ice may build up on the surface of a concrete driveway over time. When temperatures drop below freezing at night, that accumulated snow and ice can create a slick surface that is dangerous for people walking along it. Therefore, although concrete might be more durable than other options when it comes to dealing with extreme weather conditions, care must still be taken to prevent slips and falls on its surface.
Fortunately, there are a number of ways that a concrete contractor can make a driveway less slippery. Some common techniques include sealing the driveway with an appropriate treatment, applying traction-boosting agents to key areas where people commonly walk, and adding a textured surface to increase friction. By combining these measures, concrete contractors can help ensure that their customers get a safe, convenient concrete driveway that they can enjoy all year round.
Sealing with treatments
One of these steps is adding an acrylic sealant with a non-slip grit additive to the surface of the concrete. This creates a textured layer on top which helps to minimize the risk of slipping. Apply the topical sealer to the finished surface. This will fill in any voids and create a smooth, non-porous surface that will not absorb moisture. There are a variety of sealers available, so it is important to consult with a professional to choose the best option for your needs. Additionally, regular maintenance like adding salt pellets or using ice melt solutions during winter months can further reduce the chance of skidding on your driveway. With the proper treatment, a concrete driveway can be both safe and stylish. Overall, by taking these measures, you can be sure that your concrete driveway will be both durable and secure.
Apply traction agents
Many homeowners choose to add a traction-boosting agent to their concrete driveway. There are a variety of traction-boosting agents on the market, but one of the most popular is Polypropylene fiber. This synthetic fiber is mixed into the wet concrete during the pouring process. As the concrete dries, the fibers help to increase surface roughness and prevent slipping. In addition to improving safety, Polypropylene fiber also helps to extend the lifespan of concrete driveways by reducing cracking and scaling. These agents work by creating microscopic roughness on the surface of the concrete, which helps to increase traction. In addition, many traction-boosting agents also contain additives that help to prevent moisture from seeping into the concrete and causing it to freeze. As a result, using a traction-boosting agent can help to make a concrete driveway both safer and more durable.
Anti-Skid Additives
One option is to add an anti-skid additive to the concrete mix before it is poured. This will create a rougher surface that will provide better traction. Anti-skid additives are used to create a wears surface that is both textured and slip-resistant. There are a number of different types of anti-skid additives, but the most common is aggregate. To create an anti-skid surface, the additive is mixed into the concrete during the finishing process. The amount of additive added will vary depending on the desired level of slip resistance. Once the concrete has cured, it can be power washed to remove any loose aggregate. An anti-skid additive can provide an extra measure of safety for driveways, walkways, and other concrete surfaces.
