Kerb Repairs: Tips to Preventing Extensive Damage to Your Kerbing
One of the most used but overlooked areas of your exterior is your kerbing. As such, homeowners only seem to notice that their kerbing requires some maintenance when it has developed extensive cracking, which could end up permanently distorting the concrete. Luckily, there are a number of measures that you could employ to prevent extensive damage to your kerbing. Below are some of the tips you could employ to prevent unnecessary kerbing repairs.
Tip 1: Stop cracks from forming
When it comes to your kerbing, one of the most important maintenance measures would be the prevention of cracks in the first place. To do this, you would have to ensure that the concrete is sealed on a routine basis. When investing in a sealant, you should consider investing in one that comes with ultraviolet protection. This is especially crucial if your kerbing is exposed to direct sunlight. The UV protection will reduce the risk of UV rays deteriorating the concrete before its time, decreasing the risk of cracks developing prematurely. Lastly, ensure that there is no vegetation in close proximity to the kerbing. Over time, roots can encroach onto the kerbing and cause cracking as they push the ground underneath the kerbing.
Tip 2: Attend to cracks as they occur
If your kerbing is already showing signs of hairline cracks, it is prudent to ensure that they are patched up post haste. Hairline cracks may seem harmless but they are a warning sign that your kerbing has become compromised. If the cracks are not attended to, water can begin to collect inside them causing the cracks to expand. Moreover, debris such as pebbles and twigs can also make their way into the cracks, leading to further expansion. Any cracks on your kerbing should be filled as soon as they occur. Once the filler has dried, you should seal the crack to prevent the risk of the filler becoming eroded.
Tip 3: Keep water off your driveway
Granted, your kerbing will be exposed to water as it is at the exterior of your home. However, constant exposure to water can lead to stagnation if proper drainage is not in place. Therefore, it is important to ensure that concrete contractors install appropriate drainage solutions to redirect the water away from your kerbing. It should also be noted that ice and sleet is not good for your kerbing either. Thus, ensure that the kerbing is properly de-iced during the winter months to prevent moisture from penetrating its surface.
For more information, contact local professionals like Kerb Doctor.