Freeze-Thaw Cycle: How Wisconsin Winters Damage Concrete and How to Fix It

Concrete is a durable and versatile material, but Wisconsin’s harsh winters can take a serious toll. The freeze-thaw cycle, heavy snow, and constant shoveling can lead to cracked concrete, uneven surfaces, and even flaking. Additionally, the use of salt and salt brine for de-icing accelerates the deterioration of concrete surfaces by increasing water absorption and causing chemical reactions that weaken the material. If you’re dealing with sunk concrete, a cracked driveway, or a sidewalk that’s a tripping hazard, it’s time to act. At Sure-Dry, we’ve helped countless homeowners restore their concrete with our advanced PolyLevel® system and provide long-term protection with NexusPro® Joint Sealant and SealantPro®. Let’s explore why timely concrete repair is essential for safety and long-term durability.

What Happens to Concrete During Wisconsin Winters?

The freeze-thaw cycle is the primary culprit behind damaged concrete. As temperatures drop, water seeps into cracks and freezes, expanding and making the cracks worse. When the ice melts, the water settles deeper, repeating the process and causing further deterioration. Add heavy snow and ice to the mix, and your concrete surfaces are subjected to even more stress.

Salt and salt brine, commonly used for de-icing, exacerbate this problem. Salt lowers the freezing point of water, allowing it to penetrate deeper into the concrete. Once inside, the water refreezes and expands, accelerating cracking and flaking. Additionally, the chemical reaction between salt and the minerals in concrete can weaken its structure over time.

Issues like:

• Uneven concrete
• Cracked concrete
• Flaking concrete
• Sunk concrete

can quickly escalate, leading to safety hazards and costly repairs.

Safety Concerns

Damaged concrete isn’t just an eyesore—it’s a serious safety risk. Uneven sidewalks and driveways can cause trips and falls, posing a liability for homeowners. During winter, shoveling becomes a nightmare when cracks and uneven surfaces catch on your shovel or snowblower, making snow removal inefficient and frustrating.

Salt-damaged surfaces can also become more slippery, increasing the risk of accidents. By addressing these issues promptly, you not only enhance your home’s curb appeal but also ensure the safety of your family, neighbors, and visitors.

Why PolyLevel Is the Solution

At Sure-Dry, we use PolyLevel for concrete leveling and repair. PolyLevel is a high-strength polyurethane foam that lifts and stabilizes sinking or uneven concrete. Unlike traditional mudjacking, PolyLevel is lightweight, durable, and minimally invasive. Here’s how it works:

1. Small holes are drilled into the affected concrete.
2. The PolyLevel foam is injected, expanding and lifting the concrete back to its original level.
3. The holes are patched, leaving a clean and seamless finish.

Benefits of PolyLevel:

• Fast Cure Time: Your concrete is ready to use in just 15 minutes.
• Precision: The foam expands evenly for accurate leveling.
• Long-Lasting: PolyLevel resists water and won’t break down over time.
• Eco-Friendly: The process uses materials that are safe for the environment.

Additional Protection: NexusPro Joint Sealant and SealantPro

Once your concrete is leveled, don’t forget to protect it for the long term. Sure-Dry offers NexusPro Joint Sealant and SealantPro to help preserve your concrete surfaces through the winter and beyond.

• NexusPro Joint Sealant is designed to fill cracks and joints in concrete, preventing water infiltration and further damage from the freeze-thaw cycle. This flexible, durable sealant moves with your concrete, maintaining a tight bond and preventing future cracking or shifting.

• SealantPro is a concrete protection system that acts as a barrier against moisture, stains, and wear. Applied as a top coat, SealantPro creates a protective layer over your concrete, making it resistant to water, salt, and other contaminants that can lead to damage. This helps maintain the integrity and appearance of your concrete for years.

Common Areas That Need Concrete Repair

• Driveway repair: Prevent cracks from spreading and restore a smooth surface.
• Sidewalk repair: Eliminate tripping hazards and ensure ADA compliance.
• Patios and pool decks: Keep outdoor spaces safe and enjoyable.
• Garage floors: Fix unevenness to protect vehicles and prevent accidents.

Don’t Wait—Concrete Problems Only Get Worse

Delaying repairs can lead to more extensive damage and higher costs. Addressing cracked or uneven concrete now will save you time, money, and stress in the future. Plus, with PolyLevel, NexusPro, and SealantPro, you can trust that your repair will stand up to Wisconsin’s toughest winters.

Ready to take the first step? Visit Sure-Dry’s Concrete Repair page to learn more or schedule a free estimate. Let’s restore your concrete to its safe and beautiful best!