Winter Maintenance Tips for Exposed Aggregate Concrete

When winter hits Grand Rapids, it’s not just the chill and snow you have to worry about—your outdoor surfaces face a challenge too. Exposed aggregate concrete, with its beautiful texture and decorative appeal, can start to suffer under the freeze-thaw cycles, snow, and ice that are all too common here.

As a homeowner, it’s frustrating to see your driveway, patio, or walkway lose its charm—or worse, crack and deteriorate—after a harsh winter. But with a little preparation and care, you can protect your concrete and keep it looking great for years to come.

Here’s a practical, homeowner-friendly guide to winterizing your exposed aggregate concrete.

1. Give It a Good Clean Before Winter Hits

Think of cleaning as your concrete’s “reset” before the snow moves in. Dirt, leaves, and gunk might look harmless, but once trapped under moisture, they can stain and wear down the surface.

Quick cleaning tips:

• Sweep with a stiff-bristle broom to clear out debris.
  
  
• Rinse with a hose or low-pressure washer—skip the high-powered blast that could loosen the decorative stones.
  
  
• Stay away from harsh cleaners or salts that can cause long-term damage.
  
  

A clean surface isn’t just about looks—it’s your first layer of defense.

2. Seal It Like a Winter Jacket

Sealing is hands-down one of the best ways to protect exposed aggregate concrete. A good sealer acts like a water shield, preventing cracks caused by freezing and thawing.

Do it before the first freeze while the surface is still clean and dry. Penetrating sealers work great because they keep moisture out without changing the natural look. Think of it like slipping a warm coat over your concrete—it stays safe without losing its style.

3. Fix Cracks Before They Spread

Small cracks may not seem like a big deal now, but come winter, they can turn into real trouble. Water sneaks in, freezes, expands, and suddenly that little crack is a big headache.

Take a walk around your driveway or patio, spot any cracks, and fill them with a flexible, weather-resistant filler. After patching, reseal the area so protection is consistent across the whole surface. A little TLC now saves you a major repair bill later.

4. Be Smart About Snow and Ice

Snow removal is part of life in Michigan, but how you do it matters.

Best practices for snow care:

• Swap metal shovels for plastic or rubber-edged ones to avoid scratches.
  
• Skip the harsh chemical de-icers that can eat away at concrete. Sand or fine gravel works well for traction.

A little extra care when clearing snow keeps your concrete looking better, longer.

5. Watch the Water

Water is concrete’s biggest enemy in winter. Make sure surfaces slope away from your home so puddles don’t sit and freeze. Clear out gutters and downspouts so melting snow drains properly. If you’ve got a low spot where water likes to pool, consider adding a small surface drain before it causes bigger issues.

6. Keep an Eye on Freshly Sealed Surfaces

If you’ve just sealed your concrete, it needs a little extra attention. If snow or rain is in the forecast, cover the area with breathable tarps. Avoid plastic—it traps moisture and does more harm than good. Monitoring new seal work during the first few storms will help it last much longer.

Keep Your Concrete Looking Its Best with Grand Rapids Concrete Pros

Michigan winters are tough, but your concrete doesn’t have to suffer. With a little preparation and smart maintenance, your exposed aggregate surfaces can handle the cold and keep their charm for years.

At Grand Rapids Concrete Pros, we know exactly what your concrete is up against and how to protect it. From sealing and crack repair to seasonal maintenance tips, our team makes sure your driveway, patio, or walkway stays strong through winter and beyond.

Ready to winter-proof your concrete? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and keep your outdoor spaces looking their best—no matter how harsh the season gets.