Fall is the time to plan your concrete projects

     As summer winds down and fall approaches, now is the time to start planning — and booking — your concrete projects. Whether you’re considering a new driveway, patio, walkway, slab, or other concrete improvement, getting on a contractor’s schedule sooner rather than later can make all the difference.

     Fall can be an excellent season for concrete work. With the intense heat of summer behind us and the freezing temperatures of winter still ahead, the moderate temperatures of early fall can provide favorable conditions for pouring and curing concrete. Proper temperatures and moisture conditions help concrete cure correctly and develop the strength and durability homeowners expect from a quality installation.

     However, the window for ideal fall weather doesn’t last forever. As we move deeper into the season, rainy days become more common and daylight hours become shorter. These changing conditions can make scheduling and completing outdoor projects more challenging. October is fast approaching, and many skilled concrete contractors will already have full schedules. Waiting too long to book could mean your project gets pushed into November — or potentially later, depending on weather and availability.

     If you have been thinking about a concrete project, now is a good time to contact a reputable contractor, discuss your plans, and get your project on the calendar.

     Planning ahead gives you a better opportunity to complete the work while conditions remain favorable and before contractors’ schedules fill up.

Concrete care

     Fall is also a great time to take care of the concrete you already have. Before the wetter weather arrives, consider having your existing concrete professionally cleaned and sealed. Cleaning removes dirt, stains, and buildup, while sealing can help protect the surface from moisture and the harsh conditions that come with winter.

     That protection is particularly important in areas where concrete is exposed to snow, rain, freezing temperatures, and ice. Water can find its way into small cracks and pores in concrete, and repeated freezing and thawing can contribute to surface damage over time. A properly maintained and sealed surface can help your concrete withstand the elements and remain looking its best.

     One important winter maintenance reminder: never use corrosive ice-melt products on your concrete. Some deicing chemicals can damage the surface, causing scaling, spalling, or deterioration of the top layer. What may seem like a quick solution for icy conditions can ultimately lead to an expensive repair.

     Instead, ask your concrete professional about safer alternatives for managing winter ice around your home or business.

     With October just around the corner, the message is simple: don’t wait until the weather turns. If you have a concrete project in mind, contact your contractor now. And if your existing concrete needs some attention, take advantage of the remaining dry weather to clean, seal, and prepare it for the winter ahead.