How the Arizona Sun Affects Your Concrete
Concrete is usually considered the safest option by builders and homeowners. It has some tremendous benefits that cannot be compared with other flooring materials that people have been using in their homes. It is also an affordable option, so homeowners don’t have to struggle to achieve consistent results. However, concrete is also prone to the extreme sun in Arizona. Here’s how the Arizona sun affects your concrete and how to mitigate such challenges.
1. Excessive Evaporation
The main challenge with the Arizona sun is that it causes the water in concrete to evaporate too quickly. As a result, the concrete doesn’t have enough time to cure and harden properly. This can lead to cracking, chipping, and even flaking of the concrete surface.
To mitigate this problem, builders need to use a curing compound to slow down evaporation and give the concrete enough time to cure properly. In addition, they need to ensure that the concrete is well-sealed so that water doesn’t evaporate too quickly.
2. Bonding Issues
Another problem with the Arizona sun is that it can cause bonding issues between the concrete and other materials. For example, if you’re using concrete to build a patio, the sun can cause the concrete to bond poorly with the pavers. This can cause cracking and chipping of the patio.
You can solve the issue of bonding by using a good-quality concrete sealer. This will help to improve the bond between the concrete and other materials. In addition, you need to make sure that the surface is clean and free of dust before applying the sealer.
3. Discoloration
The Arizona sun can also cause discoloration of concrete. This is because the sun’s rays can bleach the color of the concrete. As a result, your concrete may start to look dull and lifeless. Discoloration is something that can be addressed through concrete repair. Also, you can use a concrete sealer to help protect the color of your concrete. You can liaise with concrete experts to help you choose the suitable sealer for your needs.
4. Exposure to Moisture
In some instances, the Arizona sun can cause concrete to become more vulnerable to moisture. This is because the sun can cause the pores in the concrete to open up, which allows moisture to seep in and cause damage. You can avoid this problem by using a good-quality concrete sealer. This will help protect your concrete from moisture and keep it looking its best.
5. Sealant Damage
The extreme sun can also damage the sealant on your concrete. This is because the heat from the sun can cause the sealant to deteriorate and crack. As a result, your concrete will be left unprotected from the elements. You can avoid this problem by using a high-quality sealant designed to withstand the heat from the sun. You can also use a UV-resistant sealant to help protect your concrete from the sun’s rays.
Conclusion
The Arizona sun can have a damaging effect on concrete. However, you can mitigate these challenges by using suitable materials and sealers. You can also liaise with concrete experts to help you choose the best product for your needs. You can ensure that your concrete lasts for many years to come by taking these precautions. Sunstar Seal Coating, Inc. can help you with concrete tips and tricks. Give us a call today for additional information.
Categorised in: Concrete
This post was written by admin