Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Colored and Aggregated Concrete

Here in Grand Rapids, we get to experience all four seasons in full force—sun-soaked summers, crisp autumns, snowy winters, and the promise of new beginnings each spring. It’s part of what makes living in West Michigan special. But while we enjoy the changing seasons, our concrete? Not so much.

If you’ve invested in colored or exposed aggregate concrete—whether it’s for your patio, driveway, walkway, or porch—you already know how much it can elevate your home’s curb appeal. But decorative concrete needs a little extra care to keep it looking fresh and vibrant through all the weather Michigan throws at it.

Don’t worry though—we’ve got you. With a few seasonal maintenance habits, you can keep your concrete strong, beautiful, and ready for everything from backyard BBQs to icy snowfalls.

Why Your Decorative Concrete Needs a Bit More TLC

Colored concrete isn’t just your average gray slab. It’s mixed with pigments to give it warm tones and rich color that last for years. Exposed aggregate, on the other hand, reveals the natural beauty of pebbles and stone within the surface—a textured, non-slip finish that adds instant character.

But those good looks come with a trade-off: they’re more vulnerable to weather, stains, and wear. Without regular maintenance, you might notice fading, surface damage, or cracking. Luckily, with the right care at the right time of year, most of these issues are completely avoidable.

Spring: A Fresh Start

After a long winter, spring is the season of cleanup—and your concrete needs it, too.

Start with a thorough rinse and scrub. Use a mild concrete cleaner, a soft-bristle brush, and a hose to wash away dirt, salt, and any de-icing residue from the colder months. Salt especially can damage the surface over time, so it's important to wash it off.

As you're cleaning, take a walk around and inspect for any cracks or surface flaking (called spalling). Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycles can cause small cracks to expand, so patch those early before they grow.

If the surface has lost its shine or feels a bit faded, spring offers just the right weather to give it a fresh seal. A fresh seal not only enhances the color but also acts like sunscreen and waterproofing for your concrete.

Summer: Sun & Protection

Summer in Grand Rapids is when your outdoor spaces really shine. But it’s also when UV rays can start to fade your concrete’s color.

Keep it clean with regular sweeping and the occasional rinse—especially if you’re entertaining. Food spills, grease, and grime can leave behind stains that are tough to remove later.

Concrete exposed to full sun can lose its vibrancy over time. Applying a UV-resistant sealer not only shields it from fading but also enhances its natural color and texture.

And here’s a pro tip: if you’ve got heavy patio furniture or planters, place protective pads underneath to prevent scratching, especially on textured aggregate surfaces.

Fall: Prep for the Freeze

Fall is a good time to think ahead. It’s smart to get ahead of the first frost by prepping your concrete for the challenges of winter.

Clear away leaves and organic debris—they can trap moisture and leave behind stains. Then, check your drainage. Water pooling around your slab is a recipe for damage once the temps drop below freezing.

It’s a great time to squeeze in one last coat of sealer before winter sets in. Look for a dry day with temps in the 50s or 60s so it cures properly.

If you noticed any small cracks in spring but didn’t get around to fixing them, now’s the time. Winter will only make them worse.

Winter: Gentle Touch, Big Impact

Winter maintenance is more about prevention than anything.

When it comes to snow and ice, avoid harsh salt products. Traditional rock salt can eat away at colored and aggregate concrete. Instead, go for calcium-magnesium acetate or good ol’ sand for traction—it’s concrete-friendly and just as effective.

A metal shovel might get the job done, but it can leave behind scrapes. A plastic one is a safer bet for protecting your surface. And if we get a mid-winter thaw, take the opportunity to give your concrete a quick rinse to remove any lingering chemicals or grime.

Inspect your concrete after major freezes or snowstorms—these conditions can quietly cause cracks or surface issues. Catching issues early can save you a lot of money and stress in spring.

Year-Round Tips for Long-Term Care

No matter the season, a few good habits will help you get the most out of your decorative concrete:

• Sweep regularly to keep dirt and debris from building up
  
• Keep gutters and downspouts flowing away from concrete surfaces
  
• Reseal every 2–3 years, or whenever the surface starts to dull
  
• Check expansion joints and fill gaps with flexible, weatherproof caulk
  
  

Leave the Heavy Lifting to Your Local Concrete Experts

We get it—juggling home maintenance with everything else life throws at you isn’t always easy. If you'd rather not stress about concrete care every season, that's where we come in.

Taking care of decorative concrete through all four seasons is kind of our thing at Grand Rapids Concrete Pros. From sealing and cleaning to crack repair and inspections, we help you protect your investment and keep your outdoor spaces looking their best.

Call Grand Rapids Concrete Pros today to schedule your seasonal concrete service. You handle the fun stuff—let us take care of the rest.