Winter Concrete Care in Minnesota

Keep Your Investment Strong and Safe

Minnesota winters are no joke - and that includes the effect they have on your concrete. Whether you installed a new driveway, patio, sidewalk, garage apron, or stamped concrete this year, proper winter care is crucial to protect your investment from salt damage, cracking, and scaling.

At Martin Masonry and Concrete, we help homeowners across Saint Michael, Maple Grove, Rogers, Otsego, and the Minneapolis-St. Paul Twin Cities metro protect their concrete year-round. Below are four simple, but highly effective steps every Minnesota homeowner should take - especially during the first winter with new concrete.

Avoid Salt on Concrete

Salt can cause scaling and surface damage - especially on new concrete during its first winter. Many de-icers contain chemicals that break down concrete as snow melts and refreezes. Even products marketed as "concrete safe" can still harm new slabs while they continue curing throughout the winter. We recommend using sand or kitty litter for traction instead. These provide grip without damaging the surface.

Use a Plastic Shovel

Metal edges can chip, scratch, or gouge fresh concrete. Even light scraping can leave permanent marks in stamped or broom-finished slabs. Choosing a plastic shovel whenever possible is one of the easiest ways to keep your concrete surface looking brand new.

Clear Snow After Storms

Leaving snow packed on concrete increases melting and refreezing, which weakens the surface. Snow also holds de-icing chemicals brought in on vehicles and boots. Clearing snow soon after storms to prevent damage allows for less time for moisture to sit on the slab and the longer your concrete lasts.

Redirect Water and Snow Melt

Downspouts, roof runoff, and melting snow piles can lead to cracking when water refreezes on new concrete surfaces. Pooling water slowly breaks down the surface and edges. Keep water moving away from the slab. Use extensions, shovel drifts away from edges, and avoid piling snow directly on new concrete.

Bonus Tip: Concrete Needs Time

Concrete continues to cure long after the day it is poured. Even though you may be able to walk or drive on it after a few days, the internal strength develops for months. That is why the first winter is the most important for protection.

We Do Interior Work Too!

Winter is an amazing time to plan or complete interior stonework, fireplaces, stone veneer accents, basement finishes, and brickwork.

Martin Masonry and Concrete offers:

-Custom fireplace design and stone veneer installation

-Interior stone walls and accents

-Basement masonry, floors, and finishing

If you love modern rustic, cozy cabin, farmhouse, or custom stone features- winter is the perfect time to bring that style into your home.

Proudly serving the Twin Cities Northwest Metro

We provide high-quality concrete and masonry services in:

Saint Michael - Albertville - Otsego - Hanover - Rogers - Maple Grove - Plymouth - Buffalo - Monticello - Elk River - Big Lake - Minneapolis - Twin Cities Metro - We travel up to 90 miles!

Have Winter Concrete Questions? We are Here to Help!

If you have questions about care, traction options, interior work, or maintenance - we are happy to help!

Email us at info@martinmasonryconcrete.com