CONCRETE

CARING FOR YOUR EXTERIOR CONCRETE SURFACES

Scaling of exterior concrete surfaces including concrete porches, walkways, garage floor slabs, steps (including precast) is often the result from using salt and de-icers during winter seasons to break up snow/ice deposits. Also, be aware that salt or de-icers are often found in road slush deposits. Cleaning salt deposits off concrete surfaces is part of your normal home maintenance. Where repairs are necessary, be aware that colour and/or texture may not match the surrounding concrete but over time, these variations will blend through the seasons.

CARING FOR YOUR INTERIOR CONCRETE SURFACES

Generally, your basement concrete floor slab is not a structural element of your home as they do not have to carry the load of the house. This floor surface will crack during curing due to shrinkage. Shrinkage cracks are generally considered aesthetic and a normal occurance during the first 2 years of a new home’s construction. Repairs are necessary if there is evident vertical or lateral movement and repairs to the concrete may not match the colour and/or texture to the surrounding concrete. Keeping your concrete floor clean of debris and dust/dirt build up (by vacuuming or mopping the floor seasonally) will ensure you can periodically inspect it for shrinkage cracks.

BASEMENT WALL OR FLOOR IS DAMP

• Dampness on wall or floor surfaces is or may be caused by capillary transport or condensation of water vapour. • Condensation can occur during peak seasonal weather patterns. You should immediately reduce moisture levels to prevent harm to property by a dehumidifier in summer or by increasing the amount of ventilation to the area.

BASEMENT FLOOR DRAINS

Basement floor drain will facilitate water drainage from your concrete floor in the event of accidental flooding. Basement slabs are generally sloped towards a floor drain and are at the lowest point but not necessarily be located to facilitate drainage over the entire floor area.

COLD ROOMS / CANTINAS

Cold rooms/cantinas are built to be adequately ventilated to reduce the likelihood of condensation on interior surfaces. Condensation in cold rooms occurs when warm moist air meets a cold surface. The frequency of condensation may increase under the following conditions: • Ventilation openings are blocked by homeowner landscaping etc. • The door to the cold room has not been fully closed. • The cold room is exposed to sun.

BASEMENT WINDOW WELLS

Basement window wells are built to provide adequate drainage for rainwater and need to be kept clear of debris and snow accumulation as part of your regular home maintenance, in order to prevent water penetration.