Concrete Maintenance Checklist for Commercial Properties

Concrete is a popular choice for commercial properties due to its durability, strength, and low maintenance requirements. However, even the most resilient concrete surfaces require regular upkeep to maintain their appearance and structural integrity. Whether you own an office building, retail space, or industrial facility in London, Ontario, having a concrete maintenance plan in place is crucial to prolonging the life of your property’s concrete features.
In this guide, we'll walk you through a comprehensive concrete maintenance checklist to keep your commercial property in top shape year-round.
Why Concrete Maintenance Matters
Before diving into the checklist, let's discuss why concrete maintenance is essential for commercial properties:
- Enhanced Durability: Regular maintenance prevents small issues from becoming major problems, ensuring the longevity of your concrete surfaces.
- Safety: Cracks, spalling, or uneven surfaces can create trip hazards. Regular inspections help you address these safety concerns.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Well-maintained concrete enhances the curb appeal of your property, making it more attractive to tenants, customers, and visitors.
- Cost Savings: Proactive maintenance is more cost-effective than major repairs or complete replacements, saving you money in the long run.
The Ultimate Concrete Maintenance Checklist
Follow this checklist to ensure your commercial concrete surfaces are well-maintained and ready to withstand the elements in London, Ontario.
1. Regular Inspections
- Frequency: At least twice a year (spring and fall) and after severe weather events.
- What to Look For:
- Cracks, chips, or spalling
- Stains or discoloration
- Uneven surfaces or sunken areas
- Exposed rebar or other signs of structural damage
Regular inspections help you catch issues early before they worsen and become costly to repair.
2. Cleaning Concrete Surfaces
- Frequency: Every 3-6 months, depending on foot and vehicle traffic.
- Recommended Method:
- Use a pressure washer to remove dirt, debris, and stains.
- For oil or grease stains, apply a commercial concrete cleaner.
- Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the concrete surface over time.
Regular cleaning not only keeps your concrete looking fresh but also prevents the buildup of substances that can cause damage.
3. Sealant Application
- Frequency: Every 2-3 years, or as needed based on wear.
- Benefits:
- Protects against water penetration, freeze-thaw cycles, and chemical spills.
- Enhances the appearance by giving concrete a clean, polished look.
Applying a high-quality concrete sealer is crucial, especially in areas like London, Ontario, where freeze-thaw cycles can cause concrete to crack and deteriorate.
4. Repairing Cracks and Joints
- Frequency: As soon as cracks are detected.
- What to Do:
- Small cracks can be filled with a concrete crack filler.
- Larger cracks or damaged joints may require professional repair.
- Ensure expansion joints are free of debris and are functioning correctly to accommodate concrete movement.
Prompt crack repair prevents moisture from seeping into the concrete, which can lead to more severe damage over time.
5. Resurfacing Worn-Out Areas
- Frequency: Every 5-10 years, or when surfaces show significant wear.
- Process:
- Concrete resurfacing involves applying a new layer of concrete or overlay to refresh the appearance and improve durability.
- Ideal for restoring the look of parking lots, walkways, or heavily trafficked areas.
Resurfacing is a cost-effective alternative to full replacement and can extend the life of your concrete surfaces.
6. Addressing Drainage Issues
- Frequency: Annually, or after significant changes in weather patterns.
- What to Check:
- Ensure water is draining away from concrete surfaces.
- Look for pooling water or areas with poor drainage.
- Clean out drains, gutters, and catch basins regularly to prevent water damage.
Proper drainage is crucial to preventing water damage that can erode concrete surfaces and weaken their structural integrity.
7. Winterization Tips
- Frequency: Every fall, before the first freeze.
- Best Practices:
- Remove snow and ice promptly to prevent damage from freeze-thaw cycles.
- Use non-corrosive de-icers, such as calcium magnesium acetate, instead of rock salt, which can damage concrete.
- Consider applying a protective winter sealant to shield concrete from harsh winter conditions.
Winter weather in London, Ontario, can be tough on concrete. Proper winterization helps protect your surfaces from cracking and spalling due to freezing temperatures.
8. Addressing Stains and Discoloration
- Frequency: As needed, based on the appearance of stains.
- What to Do:
- Use a commercial concrete cleaner for stubborn stains.
- For organic stains, like leaves or algae, use a mix of water and mild detergent.
- Apply a stain-resistant sealer to prevent future staining.
Maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your commercial property is key to making a good impression on clients and visitors.
9. Professional Maintenance Services
- Frequency: Annually, or as needed based on the condition of your concrete.
- Why Hire Professionals?:
- Professional concrete contractors can provide deep cleaning, crack repair, and sealing services that go beyond standard DIY maintenance.
- They have the expertise and equipment to assess and repair concrete damage effectively.
Partnering with a professional concrete maintenance company ensures that your commercial property receives the best care, preserving its value for years to come.
Conclusion
Concrete is a durable and versatile material, but like any other part of your commercial property, it requires regular maintenance to stay in top condition. By following this concrete maintenance checklist, you can extend the lifespan of your concrete surfaces, enhance their appearance, and protect your investment.
At Concrete Contractors London, we specialize in concrete maintenance, repair, and restoration services for commercial properties in London, Ontario. Whether you need crack repairs, resurfacing, or sealing, our team has the expertise to keep your concrete in excellent condition. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you protect your property with professional concrete maintenance solutions.









