Curing concrete correctly is one of the most important steps in construction. While concrete can look solid within hours of being poured, it takes much longer to fully cure and reach its designed strength. This guide covers the correct concrete setting time so you can prevent cracks, surface damage and costly repairs from the start. What Affects the Concrete Curing Process?  Concrete hardens because of a chemical reaction between cement and water called hydration. For hydration to work, you must control moisture and temperature — otherwise, your surface won’t reach its intended strength or durability.  Moisture If water evaporates too…

Concrete is one of the most durable building materials available, but like anything exposed to the elements, it doesn’t last forever — especially with the climate in Minneapolis. Understanding how long concrete can last and what you can do to keep it in good shape for as long as possible is highly beneficial. What Is the Typical Lifespan of Concrete in Minneapolis? If the concrete is properly mixed, installed and maintained, it can typically last several decades in Minneapolis.  The weather plays a significant role in concrete longevity. This region experiences a humid continental climate, which means it has four…

Due to its longevity, concrete has wide usage in walkways, driveways and other surfaces. However, the material can still break down over time. Cracks and holes start to appear, and you may wonder how to fix the concrete surface. These imperfections may occur for many reasons, such as soil quality, changing temperatures or moisture. As you notice concrete damage, consider whether repair or replacement works better for your situation.  Concrete Repair Concrete repair may involve different processes depending on the damage. Sinking concrete may require a polyurethane polymer to fill voids and stabilize the surface with minimal impact on the…

You may not give your driveway much thought, but it's one of the most prominent elements of your exterior and landscape design. Ensuring it's well maintained will improve your home's overall curb appeal and value, making concrete driveway care a worthwhile investment.  Top 5 Concrete Driveway Maintenance Tips  Want to keep your driveway looking its best and extend its life span? Check out five of the best concrete driveway maintenance tips: Be aware of parking patterns: Try to avoid parking in the same spot every day or leaving heavy equipment on the concrete. Keep water off: Keep water and rock salt from…

Your garage often serves multiple purposes, including storing your car, providing space for tools and projects, and offering an additional living area. Given how much you use it, you may want to update it. Cement floors with decorative elements make your garage functional and stylish.  Here are a few ways to revamp concrete flooring for a garage. 1. Stamped Concrete Concrete stamping allows you to mimic varying patterns and textures, like wood, brick or cobblestone, in your garage. Making stamped concrete involves applying a mix over the existing concrete and then placing stamps on the surface to create the texture.…