Winterizing Concrete Statuary: Protecting Your Garden Art from Freezing Weather

Winterizing Concrete Statuary: Protecting Your Garden Art from Freezing Weather
By Grand Valley Statues

As the cold weather rolls in and winter sets its sights on your garden, one of the last things you want is to discover that your beautiful concrete statues have cracked or shattered due to freezing temperatures. Concrete is a durable material, but without proper winterization, it can be vulnerable to damage from frost and moisture. At Grand Valley Statues, we want to ensure that your beloved pieces stay intact and beautiful season after season. Here’s how you can winterize your concrete statuary to avoid breakage during the harsh winter months.

Why Concrete Statues Are Vulnerable in Winter

Concrete is a porous material, meaning it absorbs water. When the temperature drops and the water inside the concrete freezes, it expands, causing stress within the material. This can lead to cracks, chips, or even full breakage of your statues. Additionally, the freeze-thaw cycle—where temperatures fluctuate above and below freezing—can exacerbate the damage, making it even more important to take proper precautions.

Steps to Winterize Your Concrete Statuary

1. Clean Your Statues Before Winter
   Before the first frost hits, give your concrete statues a thorough cleaning. Use a gentle scrub brush and mild soap to remove dirt, grime, and debris. This will not only help the statues look their best during the winter months but also remove any organic materials like moss or algae that can trap moisture and lead to further damage. Rinse them well and allow them to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

2. Not contacting the earth or dirt
   Lift your statuary up so it is not indirect contact with any surfaces that will hold water or allow water to wick into your statue. Make sure want will not pool anywhere on the statue by flipping it upside down or covering the areas so water will not pond. Ponding can lead to frozen water expansion which may crack your statuary. 
   

3. Seal the Surface
   Sealing your statues creates a protective barrier against moisture infiltration. There are several high-quality concrete sealers available that can help prevent water from seeping into the material. Look for a sealer that is designed specifically for outdoor statuary, as these products provide long-lasting protection against the elements. Apply the sealer in a thin, even coat using a soft cloth or brush, and be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times and reapplication.

4. Move Statues to a Safe Location
   If possible, move your concrete statues to a sheltered area during the winter months. This could be a garage, shed, or even a covered porch. Keeping your statues out of the harshest weather conditions will give them the best chance of surviving the winter unscathed. If moving them isn’t an option, consider placing them on a raised surface, like a wooden platform, to prevent them from sitting directly on the frozen ground, which can exacerbate moisture absorption.

5. Use a Protective Cover
   For statues that remain outside, consider covering them with a breathable tarp or other weatherproof cover. The key is to allow air to circulate while protecting the statue from snow, ice, and direct exposure to freezing rain. Avoid using plastic covers, as these can trap moisture and create an environment for mold or mildew to grow.

6. Inspect and Repair Any Existing Damage
   Before winter arrives, inspect your statues for any signs of existing cracks or damage. If you find any, take the time to repair them before the freeze-thaw cycle begins. Small cracks can be patched with a concrete repair product, which will help to prevent them from expanding in freezing temperatures. Be sure to clean and dry the area around the crack before applying any filler, and allow it to cure fully before moving the statue or exposing it to moisture.

7. Consider Using Concrete Statuary Specifically Designed for Winter
   If you live in an area with particularly harsh winters, you may want to consider investing in concrete statuary designed to withstand freezing temperatures. Some manufacturers create statues with specially formulated concrete that is more resistant to freezing and thawing, reducing the likelihood of damage. At Grand Valley Statues, we carry a range of products that are designed to be durable through all seasons.

How to Handle Water Features or Birdbaths

Water features like fountains and birdbaths pose an additional challenge during winter. Water left inside these features can freeze and cause cracks or other damage. If you have a birdbath or fountain, be sure to empty it and store any removable parts (such as pumps) in a dry, safe location. If your fountain is large and immovable, make sure to drain the water completely, remove any debris, and cover it to protect it from snow and ice. Some homeowners even choose to add antifreeze to the water feature, though it is important to ensure the type used is safe for wildlife.

Additional Tips for Winterizing Concrete Statues

• Avoid Salt: Don’t use salt or ice melt products around your statues, as they can cause discoloration and long-term damage to the surface.
• Check for Leaning: Ensure that your statues are securely positioned, as heavy snow or wind could cause them to lean or fall. You might want to reposition larger statues to prevent any unintentional movement.
• Warm Up Gradually: If you’ve moved your statues indoors, avoid bringing them straight into a heated space from the cold outdoors. Sudden temperature changes can cause thermal shock and lead to cracking. Instead, allow them to warm up slowly.

Conclusion

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your concrete statuary will survive the winter months without issue. Winterizing your statues is all about protecting them from the elements and preventing moisture from getting trapped inside. At Grand Valley Statues, we take pride in offering high-quality statuary and want to help you preserve your pieces for years to come. Whether you're looking to bring them inside for the season or give them a little extra protection, taking action now can save you from costly repairs and preserve the beauty of your garden art for seasons to come.

Stay safe, and enjoy your statuary all year round!

Feel free to contact us for more advice on caring for your statues or browse our selection of beautiful, durable garden art!