How To Protect a Concrete Driveway During Winter

As a homeowner in Lubbock, TX, you know that our winters can be unpredictable. While we may not experience the same harsh conditions as northern states, the frequent freeze-thaw cycles can wreak havoc on your concrete driveway. 

At Lubbock Concrete Coating, we want to help you protect your investment and keep your driveway looking its best for years to come. This guide will provide you with essential concrete driveway winter care tips to help reduce damage and support the longevity of your concrete surfaces.



The Threat of Freeze-Thaw Cycles in Lubbock

Lubbock's winter weather often involves temperatures that rise above freezing during the day and dip below freezing at night. This fluctuation creates a damaging phenomenon known as the freeze-thaw cycle. Here's how it affects your driveway:

• Water Penetration: Concrete is a porous material, which means it naturally absorbs water from rain, snow, and ice. This moisture seeps into the tiny pores and hairline cracks of your driveway.
• Expansion: When temperatures drop, the trapped water freezes and expands by about 9%. This expansion exerts pressure on the surrounding concrete.
• Damage: As the ice thaws, it leaves behind slightly larger cracks and pores. With each cycle, the damage worsens, leading to significant issues like spalling (flaking or peeling), cracking, and pitting.

In Lubbock, our dry climate can be deceiving. Many homeowners don’t realize that even small amounts of moisture from winter precipitation or freeze–thaw conditions can lead to concrete damage. Combined with strong West Texas winds and frequent temperature swings, your driveway faces unique stresses compared to those in more humid regions, where concrete is more often exposed to prolonged moisture and slower drying.

Over time, these seemingly minor issues can compromise the structural integrity of your driveway, leading to costly repairs or even a full replacement. That's why proactive winter care for concrete driveways is so important.

Proactive Steps for Concrete Driveway Winter Care

Fortunately, you can take several steps to protect your driveway from the effects of winter. As a trusted concrete contractor serving the Lubbock area, we recommend the following:

1. Invest in Professional Concrete Sealing

One of the most effective ways to protect your driveway is to apply a high-quality penetrating sealer. Our concrete sealing services create a protective barrier that helps reduce water and liquid absorption into the concrete. 

We recommend sealing your driveway before the first freeze to minimize moisture intrusion and help reduce the risk of freeze-thaw-related cracking. For optimal protection, we suggest resealing your concrete every 2 to 3 years, depending on exposure and wear.

2. Be Mindful of De-Icing Products

While rock salt is a common choice for melting ice, it can be damaging to concrete over time. The chemicals in rock salt can accelerate surface deterioration and increase moisture penetration. 

Consider using concrete-safe alternatives like calcium magnesium acetate (CMA), sand, or kitty litter for traction instead. If you must use a de-icer, opt for one specifically designed for concrete surfaces.

3. Shovel With Care

Promptly removing snow and ice from your driveway is important, but the tools you use matter. Metal shovels can scratch, chip, and gouge your concrete, creating entry points for moisture. We recommend using a plastic shovel or a snow blower to clear your driveway without causing surface damage. Regular snow removal can also reduce the need for chemical de-icers.

4. Ensure Proper Drainage

Poor drainage can lead to standing water on your driveway, which is a major contributor to freeze-thaw damage. Ensure that your downspouts, gutters, and landscaping direct water away from your concrete surfaces. 



If you notice water pooling on your driveway, it may indicate a drainage issue that should be addressed. A properly sloped driveway, generally graded at about 1/4 inch per foot, helps ensure water drains effectively.

Get Long-Term Protection With Epoxy Coatings

For enhanced protection, consider our specialized driveway coatings. These coatings create a highly moisture-resistant surface that helps protect against water intrusion, oil, chemicals, and UV exposure. 

In addition to improving durability, they enhance your driveway’s appearance with a variety of colors and finishes. When properly installed, these coatings offer a long-lasting solution for residential and commercial properties.

Contact Us for Your Concrete Driveway Winter Care Needs

Don't wait for winter to take its toll on your driveway. The team at Lubbock Concrete Coating is here to help with all your concrete driveway winter care needs. From professional sealing to durable epoxy and polyurea coatings, we have the expertise and solutions to help protect your investment. 



Contact us today for a free estimate and learn how we can help you prepare your driveway for the winter ahead.