How to Maintain Your Garage Floor

Welcome to our blog on how to maintain your garage floor, an often overlooked but essential aspect of home maintenance. A well-maintained garage floor not only enhances the appearance of your space but also ensures safety and longevity. With a few simple steps, you can keep your garage floor looking pristine for years to come. 

Maintaining your garage floor is an often overlooked task but is essential to keeping your home in top shape. Think about it—your garage floor sees a lot of traffic (foot or otherwise), can see some elemental wear, and requires upkeep just like any other part of your house. 

Follow our simple steps to keep your garage floor pristine for years to come, including garage floor repair instructions and concrete maintenance tips:

1. Immediately Clean Up Spills

2. Sweep Your Floors

3. Pressure Wash

4. Apply Concrete Sealers or Floor Coating

5. Repair Cracks and Damages to the Floor

If you are looking to resurface your garage floor instead, read our tips on how to DIY! 

1. Immediately Clean Up Spills

One of the fundamental rules in maintaining a garage floor is to clean up spills as soon as they occur. Whether it's oil, grease, chemicals, or any other liquids, they can quickly penetrate the porous concrete surface and cause stubborn stains. The longer you leave spills untreated, the more difficult they become to remove.

To tackle spills effectively:

• Keep absorbent materials like kitty litter, sawdust, or oil-dry on hand. When an oil spill occurs, spread it over the affected area to soak up the liquid. Once absorbed, sweep the material and dispose of it properly.

• Use concrete-specific detergent or degreaser to tackle tough stains. Simply follow the manufacturer's instructions, and be sure to rinse the area thoroughly with water after cleaning.

2. Sweep Your Floors

How do you take care of a concrete garage floor? You sweep it at least once per week to remove any dust, dirt, and debris! If you’re not careful, certain types of debris can scratch your concrete and eventually require garage floor repair.

We recommend using a stiff-bristled broom or a push broom designed for outdoor use to help dislodge any stubborn dirt. Sweeping is particularly important during the winter months when de-icing salt can wear down your garage floor. 

3. Pressure Wash

Cars and lawn equipment can leave unsightly oil and grease stains. But with power washing, homeowners can remove these stains from the garage floor, concrete driveway, and walkway. A pressure washer uses high-pressure water to blast away contaminants, leaving your floor looking fresh and rejuvenated. Concrete maintenance has never been easier!

Here's how to pressure wash your garage floor safely:

• Clean the area: Remove any items or vehicles from the garage and sweep the floor to eliminate loose debris.

• Select equipment: Rent or purchase a pressure washer suitable for cleaning concrete surfaces. (We recommend RYOBI pressure washers for their ease of use!) Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

• Start at low-pressure: Be cautious with the pressure settings, as excessive force can damage the concrete. Start with a low-pressure setting and gradually increase if necessary.

• Work in areas: Clean in small sections, overlapping each pass to ensure even cleaning.

4. Apply Concrete Sealers or Floor Coating

Sealing or applying a floor coating is a proactive concrete maintenance measure to protect your garage floor from damage. Concrete is porous, and sealers or coatings act as a barrier, preventing moisture, chemical substances, and stains from penetrating the surface.

Here's how to apply concrete sealers or floor coating:

• Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the garage floor, removing all dust and stains.

• Select a sealer: Select a sealer or coating suitable for your specific garage floor. There are various options available, including acrylic sealers, epoxy coatings, and polyurethane coatings.

• Follow the directions: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application. Use rollers or brushes to ensure even coverage.

• Dry: Allow sufficient time for the sealer or coating to dry before using the garage.

Still asking yourself, “Is it a good idea to seal your garage floor?” Know that the answer is almost universally yes. Sealed concrete lasts longer than unsealed concrete and can better resist stains. You should always invest in protecting your investments.

5. Repair Cracks and Damage to the Floor

If you’re properly maintaining your concrete floor, chances are you won’t have to invest heavily in garage floor repair. However, life happens, and sometimes you’ll get a crack! Addressing cracks and damage promptly is crucial in maintaining the structural integrity and appearance of your garage floor. Small cracks can expand over time, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs.

To repair cracks and damage:

• Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the cracked or damaged area, removing any loose debris and dirt.

• Fill the cracks: Use a concrete patching compound to fill the cracks. Follow the product instructions for the best results.

• Smooth the surface: Smooth the repaired area with a trowel, ensuring it's level with the rest of the floor.

• Seal the repair: Consider applying a sealer over the repaired area to enhance its longevity.

Need Help with Garage Floor Maintenance or Upgrades?

By following these five essential steps, you can keep your garage floor in top condition, prolong its life, and maintain a clean and safe space for all your activities. Remember, regular maintenance not only saves you from costly repairs in the future but also preserves the overall value of your property. Happy garage floor maintenance!

If your garage floor is past the point of maintenance, it might be time to replace or repair your garage floor.

Contact our team today and we will provide a free estimate! 

Revive Your Pool Deck With Custom Concrete

If you find that you aren’t spending much time enjoying your pool, chances are your pool deck needs a serious refresh! Custom concrete is a popular medium to elevate pool decks because it offers a combination of design versatility, low maintenance, and cost efficiency. 

Our team of concrete resurfacing experts has compiled a definitive guide to reviving your in-ground or above-ground pool deck! We’ll cover:

• Stamped Concrete vs Pavers for Your Pool Deck

• Pool Deck Resurfacing

• How to Repair the Concrete Around Your Pool

• Concrete Pool Ideas

• Cost of Concrete Pools

Whether you’re looking for a concrete pool deck or want to refurbish an existing pool deck, contact B&W Custom Concrete for a consultation! 

Stamped Concrete vs Pavers for Your Pool Deck

Stamped concrete and pavers are both excellent choices for a pool deck—and their trade-offs make them comparable when it comes to material costs, performance, and longevity.

STAMPED CONCRETE PROS: 

• Flexible Design – Stamped concrete comes in a wide variety of patterns, allowing you to mimic natural materials such as brick, cobblestone, and even wood. You can also introduce bold, sophisticated colors through stained concrete finishes.

• More Affordable – High-quality stamped concrete tends to be cheaper than natural stone pavers. Stone pavers need to be quarried, which drives up the price.

• Easy to Install – Unlike pavers, which require an involved installation process, stamped concrete can be done quickly by pouring the material and then applying the pattern.

• Easy to Maintain – You’ll need to regularly clean and seal your concrete to protect your pool deck. This makes stamped concrete a good choice around pools. Maintaining pavers is more complex because you have to replace the joint sand routinely. Natural stone can also be suspect to pool water damage if not properly sealed.

• Slip-Resistant – When sealing stamped concrete, we add anti-skid agents to ensure that it too slipper around the pool. Safety is a top priority for pool deck construction.

Natural stone pavers have high up-front costs due to material sourcing, installation, and complex routine upkeep. However, they’re unmatched in longevity and can be easily repaired by swapping out cracked pavers.  Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and maintenance commitment level.

Pool Deck Resurfacing

Pool deck resurfacing involves pouring a new concrete overlay on top of an existing pool deck. This is an affordable approach to updating your pool deck’s look and feel by changing the overlay’s color, pattern, and finish. 

Depending on your deck’s age, material, and condition, concrete resurfacing can also help reinforce and cover minor cracks or spalling (surface deterioration) in your pool deck. The new overlay uses the most up-to-date concrete techniques available to extend your deck’s lifespan. 

It’s important to note that concrete resurfacing is not the same as concrete pool deck repair. An extensively damaged deck caused by ground erosion beneath the concrete will require a professional to assess.

How to Repair the Concrete Around Your Pool

• Prepare & Repair Cracks – For small cracks, you can use a concrete patching compound or crack filler designed for use on horizontal surfaces. Clean out the crack, removing any loose material, and follow the manufacturer's instructions to apply. For larger or structural cracks, you should consult a professional.

• Clean & Prime – Thoroughly clean the pool deck to remove dirt, debris, and any loose or deteriorated material. Use a pressure washer or scrub brush along with a mild detergent or concrete cleaner. Rinse the area well and apply primer as needed. Allow the deck to dry completely before proceeding.

• Mix Overlay Product – Use a commercial concrete resurfacing product. Mix the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions and add in your coloring agents.

• Apply Overlay – Apply the product following manufacturer instructions. Different methods like spraying, rolling, and troweling will give you different final products. Once you’ve applied the overlay and checked its leveling, you may add patterns to the concrete before it cures.

• Cure & Seal – Allow your overlay to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, apply a concrete sealer suitable for outdoor use. Look for a product that also offers anti-skidding to prevent slippery surfaces when wet.

While it’s possible to DIY a concrete resurfacing project, accurately assessing your pool deck’s damage and applying the appropriate solution requires experience. It’s best to consult a professional when in doubt.

Concrete Pool Ideas 

A concrete pool deck offers flexible design options. We’ve talked about how stamped concrete can update your patio, and the same design techniques apply. 

Alternate between areas of plain and patterned or colored concrete to create visual contrast. Pick colors that stay cool in the summer heat and complement your environment. Mix organic shapes with sharp lines to define focal points.

If you’d like to make a real statement with your renovation, consider installing an above ground pool deck. The height gives a flare of drama, and swimmers will enjoy their elevated viewpoint! Architectural Digest also offers several clever ways to incorporate concrete into your backyard decor.

Need more inspiration? Check out these Instagram-worthy concrete pool decks!

Cost of Concrete Pools 

So, how much does stamped concrete cost around a pool? On average, the cost of stamped concrete is about $8–$18 per square foot. However, the final price varies depending on several factors, including:

• Pool deck foundation assessment

• Services (e.g., concrete resurfacing vs building from scratch)

• Colors and textures

• Design complexity

• Types of sealants and finishers

Transform Your Pool Deck with Custom Concrete 

At the end of the day, concrete is a high-performing and cost-effective option for pool decks. Stamped concrete is a good investment for homeowners that want to update their property’s look and feel without committing to extensive maintenance regimens. 

Customizable designs, concrete resurfacing options, and easy resealing every few years will keep your deck in top shape for decades to come.

Ready to take your pool deck to the next level? Build your custom concrete pool deck with B&W Custom Concrete. We offer free estimates!

How Stamped Concrete Can Transform Your Patio

At the height of summer, sometimes all you want to do is get in the pool, start up the grill, and invite some friends over to hang out on the patio. If you’re going to spend so much time out there, you should invest the time to kick it up a notch! 

A stamped concrete patio is a great way to customize your backyard without breaking the bank. There are tons of high-end custom patio designs to choose from—all easy to clean and maintain! Read on to learn why stamped concrete is a popular choice for homeowners.

• What Is Stamped Concrete?
• The Pros of Stamped Concrete Patios
• Stamped Concrete Patio Ideas
• How Much Does a Stamped Concrete Patio Cost?
• Ready for an Estimate?

Are you ready to transform your patio? Contact B&W Custom Concrete for a free estimate on your next project!

What Is Stamped Concrete?

Stamped concrete is created by imprinting specific patterns onto wet concrete, allowing the mixture to maintain the design as it cures. The most in-demand designs include:

• Natural stone
• Cobblestone
• Brick
• Slate
• Wood

Stamped concrete is compatible with other finishing techniques such as acid staining, aggregate exposure, and sealing.

The Pros of Stamped Concrete Patios

Stamped concrete patios share all the benefits of a standard concrete patio—but with more style! Installing a stamped concrete patio can help boost your home value by upwards of 15% thanks to its luxurious look and overall aesthetic appeal.

In a nutshell, stained concrete is:

• Durable
• Easy to clean
• Low-maintenance
• Economical
• Highly-customizable
• Aesthetically-pleasing

Stamped concrete can be a clear investment with strong returns if well-maintained. Leverage our concrete experts to bring your vision to life! 

Stamped Concrete Patio Ideas

Mixing stamped concrete with different techniques can yield a fantastic custom patio design. Of course, you can always enhance your patio by furnishing it with plants, furniture, and lights. But focusing on the concrete will give you a beautiful foundation to start.

• Add an acid stain – Combining an acid stain with a pattern will let you mimic most building materials. If you’re more adventurous, go with a vibrant neutral tone that goes well with any decor.
  
  
• Use accent colors – There’s no reason to make your patio one color. Using an accent color as a border or focal point can give visual interest without being overwhelming.
  
  
• Mix textures – In the same vein, you can create a visual impact by accenting large, plain concrete areas with stamped concrete designs.
  
  
• Vary your shapes – Spice up your patio by contrasting straight lines with organic curves. This helps better define your space without seeming too cookie-cutter.

If you’re still unsure about what to do, explore Pinterest boards or design blogs that highlight creative stamped concrete looks. Your custom patio design is just a click away!

How Much Does a Stamped Concrete Patio Cost?

Using stamped concrete for a custom patio is one of the most economical ways to upscale your patio. Depending on your design and finishers, the average stamped concrete patio will cost about:

• $8–$19 per square foot
• $3,200–$7,600 for a 20’x20’ patio

The average homeowner will spend about $4,664 nationally, which factors in the cost of labor, project complexity, thickness, and sealant. 

Overall, stamped concrete costs fall below averages for brick ($14–$20 per square foot) and stone ($14–$28 per square foot). Factor in concrete’s longevity and customization, and you’ll find the returns well worth the investment! 

It goes without saying that it’s important to get an accurate estimate to gauge your budget for any project.

Ready for an Estimate?

Stamped concrete is one of the most popular methods for transforming a patio into a real hang-out spot. You can easily create a custom patio design by taking advantage of concrete’s versatile patterns and stains. Not to mention, the overall cost savings are a no-brainer thanks to concrete’s affordable price and durability.

Are you thinking about updating your patio and improving your home value? Reach out to B&W Custom Concrete to get a free estimate on your project!

Concrete vs. Asphalt: Which Is the Better Choice for Your Driveway?

Concrete and asphalt are two of the most popular materials used for driveways, and for good reason. Both are durable materials that work well in most environments. And each has clear benefits depending on your project needs.

In the concrete vs asphalt debate, we’re ultimately team concrete thanks to our team of exceptional concrete contractors in Buffalo, NY!

In our breakdown, we’ll cover: 

• The pros and cons of concrete vs asphalt
• Is it cheaper to use asphalt or concrete?
• Popular Buffalo, NY concrete driveway designs
• Which is easier to maintain, concrete or asphalt?
• Concrete in Buffalo, NY’s cold weather
• Why you should install a concrete driveway

Ready to seal the deal (no pun intended) with a concrete driveway? Get a free quote from a B&W Custom Concrete rep!

The Pros and Cons of Concrete vs Asphalt

When it comes to installing a concrete driveway, the pros generally outweigh the cons. The TLDR version is that concrete is a high-quality material that comes in a variety of design choices. It doesn’t require much hands-on maintenance and tends to last longer than asphalt.

Concrete Pros: 

• Is long-lasting and durable compared to other materials
• Easy to maintain
• Stays cool in hot weather due to its lighter color
• Comes in attractive tints and patterns

Concrete Cons: 

• May stain over time because of its lighter color
• Is more expensive than asphalt
• Will need to be replaced if damaged

Asphalt on the other hand, tends to be cheaper and can be installed quicker thanks to its ease of use. You’ll need to invest in regular preventative maintenance to maintain your driveway. Cracks may appear more frequently with asphalt since it is a softer material, though it’s easier to repair or apply a top coat.

Is it Cheaper to Use Asphalt or Concrete?

In general, asphalt is cheaper to install than concrete, but you may need to spend more over time on maintenance. 

Home Advisor estimates asphalt installation costs to be 50% less than concrete driveways of similar size. As of 2023, the average cost of a concrete driveway installation in Buffalo, NY is $5.03 per square foot. Compare that to an asphalt driveway, which is about $3.21 per square foot and requires sealing (an additional $0.32 per square foot).

Concrete driveway installation costs will increase if you choose additional design finishers such as concrete staining, tinting, or polishing.

Having said that, it’s important to consider both your initial budget as well as the time and expense required for driveway maintenance. 

Concrete’s durability means you won’t incur maintenance costs associated with asphalt, which can save you money over time. However, to ensure that asphalt is cost-effective, you’ll need to invest in regular upkeep. 

Popular Buffalo, NY Concrete Driveway Designs

One of the main benefits of choosing a concrete driveway is the variety of designs and finishes available!

Stained concrete floors are a popular choice for homes—acid stains are chemically reactive, which causes a permanent change in a rich palette of colors. You can marble the color by unevenly distributing the cement as you finish it to give a high-end, organic feel.

Prefer to keep it classic but with a twist? B&W Custom Concrete offers patterns to give character to your driveway while keeping that signature gray tone. The lighter color compliments a variety of styles well, making it a versatile choice.

In contrast, asphalt comes in a limited range of darker colors and stamped designs due to its base material. Concrete is ultimately the best choice for customizability, while asphalt offers a standard look.

Which Is Easier to Maintain, Concrete or Asphalt?

Concrete is ideal for homeowners who prefer not to actively maintain their driveways. Once finished and sealed, concrete doesn’t need to be maintained beyond occasional cleaning. Just remember to use sand instead of salt on the first winter after you install your driveway.

Concrete driveways can last upwards of 30–40 years under normal conditions thanks to its durable material. Any blemishes tend to be artificial, which is to say it won’t affect performance. To keep your driveway clean, avoid using fertilizer on the concrete or dripping oil as they can cause stains.

If you go with asphalt, you can expect a lifespan of 20–30 years, though you’ll need to reseal your driveway every 3–5 years to maintain it. This can start to add up if you hire a professional. 

An unkempt asphalt driveway may also need regular repairs since asphalt tends to deteriorate faster than concrete. You can easily repair cracks, though it’s best to take preventative measures or go with a more durable material.

Concrete in Buffalo, NY’s Cold Weather

Concrete can be affected by extreme cold, causing it to deteriorate as the material expands and contracts. That’s why B&W Custom Concrete only uses the highest-quality concrete at maximum standards to mitigate extreme climate effects.

Our 4,000 psi concrete driveways are 4” thick with a 10 gauge wire mesh. We also spray, cure, and seal your driveway to protect your investment, ensuring longevity through many upcoming winters.

With concrete contractors in Buffalo, NY, you’re guaranteed a team that understands the environment’s specific challenges and solutions!

Asphalt will also do well in Buffalo’s cold winters but will heat up considerably during hot summer months. Ultimately, you may find that other factors around design, performance, and maintenance will outweigh asphalt’s cold tolerance.

Why You Should Install a Concrete Driveway

When it comes to durability, performance, and design, concrete takes the win. Concrete driveways are endlessly customizable and can add a lot of personality to your home. Not to mention, staining and patterns can shift your property’s look between upscale and modern to timeless and classic.

Concrete is more expensive than asphalt, but the upfront investment goes into 30–40 years of low-maintenance performance. Our concrete driveways in Buffalo, NY are designed to withstand extreme winters, too.

If you’re a homeowner who wants an aesthetic, long-lasting driveway that doesn’t require diligent, hands-on maintenance, concrete is the way to go! 

Looking for concrete contractors in Buffalo, NY? Chat with a B&W Custom Concrete rep to get a quote!