Alongside our Trade Partner, we've made some recommended guidelines to help preserve your concrete and ensure your warrantable coverage.
Concrete is one of the most used and durable building materials utilized in construction today and, if cared for, will last a very long time.
Here are a few recommendations on how to preserve your driveways and sidewalks:
- Do not drive or park any type of vehicle on new concrete for a minimum of 30 Concrete takes approximately 30 days to cure, so do not drive or park any type of vehicle on new concrete for at least 30 days (we also recommend you do not park heavier vehicles or trailers ever on your concrete).
- Avoid any large amounts of water to be placed next to any concrete pad to avoid soil If soil erosion occurs, it can lead to structural concrete cracks.
- Remove any objects from the top of any concrete surface to avoid staining.
- Avoid any contact with freshly laid concrete for a couple of days to minimize surface.
- Other than recommended products, do not use chemicals your concrete pad and keep any type of fertilizer away from and off any type of concrete surface.
Prevention Practices
- We recommend that you play an active role in preserving your investment through regular maintenance and protection of your concrete
- Concrete should be sealed 30 days after installation with a quality product as per the manufacturer’s directions. Sealing concrete is a homeowner maintenance responsibility and is not completed by Excel Homes. Proper sealing and regular re-application (typically annually) will help to limit the absorption of corrosive materials and mitigate the effects of freeze/thaw cycles.
- Excessive pressure from pressure washers can damage concrete surfaces. Using a stiff broom and concrete cleaner is a preferable method for cleaning
- Your concrete surfaces are under warranty against structural defects for one (1) year from your date of possession. Surface scaling of exterior concrete is not a structural defect and, in the event that such deterioration is deemed to be within warranty coverage (not caused by salts or lack of maintenance), Excel Homes shall have the surfaces of exterior concrete flatwork repaired by sandblasting and sealing in order to restore a uniform appearance.
Did you know? Concrete cracks.
Concrete is a durable and resilient material, but it is not impervious to cracking and/or weathering. Cracking is a common occurrence in concrete, and in most cases, it is entirely normal and expected. Concrete cracks for various reasons, most cracks are superficial and do not compromise the structural integrity of the concrete.
Here are some reasons why concrete cracks:
- SHRINKAGE DURING CURING:
As concrete hardens and cures in the process called “hydration”, it will shrink naturally due to the loss of water. Our contractors install “control joints” to intentionally weaken the concrete to crack in a specific location. These control joints will take care of most of the cracking issues; however, cracks will appear elsewhere as this is not an exact science. As concrete hydrates, it is common to cause hairline cracks, especially in large slabs for basements, garage floors, driveways, and sidewalks. - GROUND MOVEMENT:
Concrete is affected by the movement of the ground beneath it. (e.g. soil settlement, shifting, etc.) - FREEZE-THAW CYCLES:
Many cities in Alberta experience freeze-thaw cycles, where temperatures regularly drop below freezing and rise above freezing within short periods. These cycles put stress on the concrete potentially causing some cracking. - SNOW:
Snowfall and snow melt, especially during the winter months, can seep into concrete and cause deterioration if not addressed. The “road mix” used by the City to control ice on public roadways is also very detrimental to concrete surfaces.
Other common concrete occurrences:
- SCALING OR PITTING:
This occurs when the top layer of concrete begins to peel or flake away. This is often due to lack shoveling, road salts, de-icing chemicals/salts and “road mix” used by the City. - STAINING
Concrete can stain from various substances, including oil, rust, plants, fertilizers or food/drink spills. Make sure you clean stains promptly with an appropriate cleaner. For stubborn stains, consult a professional for specialized cleaning or alternate solutions. - POOLING IN GARAGE
Overhead doors can cause water to pool from melted snow and ice when closed. Ice, snow or slush on the surface should be removed using a shovel or squeegee from the garage to drain and prevent deterioration. Do not let water or snow sit on the concrete surface for extended periods of time.
If you have any questions, please contact your Warranty Specialist or Warranty Administration departments for more information. Also, please check the Alberta New Home Warranty Program's page on Concrete Care.
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Last updated on Mar. 18, 2025