If you want to ensure your Milwaukee concrete patio doesn’t develop cracks, there are some preventative measures you can take. Of course, having a professional Milwaukee concrete company pour and maintain your patio for you will ensure that you have the highest quality and care-for concrete possible. However, if you’re looking to educate yourself on how you can contribute to the cause, we have some tips. Keep reading for ways to prevent cracks in your Milwaukee concrete patios.

Properly Protecting Concrete

While concrete is known for its durability, improper installation and inclement weather conditions can cause your Milwaukee concrete patio to become easily damaged. Additionally, no matter how well done a job, cracks will inevitably happen down the line. To prevent them from forming too soon and the need for costly repairs, make sure to consider the following concrete care instructions.

Keep the Concrete Moist After Curing

It’s best if the moisture in the concrete evaporates gradually. A few ways to accomplish this are:

  • Spray a curing compound onto the concrete immediately after laying it to form a layer that protects the concrete and retains moisture.
  • Lay a wet fabric on top of the curing concrete that is moisture-retaining. Wait to do this until the concrete’s surface is hard enough that no damage will result from the fabric’s touch. Consult a concrete professional to avoid accidental harm.
  • Spray the concrete with water a few times a day for about a week following curing. If the concrete was laid during the hot part of summer it may be necessary to spray more frequently in order to keep the concrete moist.

Introduce Joints

Cracking in concrete can be avoided by installing joints in the right areas. There are different types of joints based on the effect you would like them to have:

  • Shrinkage joints, also known as control or failure joints, are used to relieve internal damage resulting from dried-out concrete or thermal movements. When used, shrinkage joints make it possible to move the slab horizontally and prevent the development of cracks.
  • Uncoupling joints, also known as expansion joints, allow for horizontal and vertical movements of parts of a concrete slab that are adjacently positioned to another structure. 
  • Construction joints will ideally follow the pattern of shrinkage or uncoupling joints to help preserve structural integrity.

Lay and Cure Your Milwaukee Concrete Patios During Appropriate Weather

It is best to pour concrete when the weather is warm, but not too hot. This leaves only a couple of months that are ideal for Milwaukee concrete pouring. Do not attempt to pour your concrete patio when temperatures could potentially take a dip below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If this does occur unexpectedly, cover the concrete to prevent drying and cracking. Insulated blankets or polythene sheeting are good options for this purpose. You’ll want to cover your newly cured concrete patio with these items if strong winds occur as well.

Professional Milwaukee Concrete Patio Installation 

Hiring a professional company that can install your Milwaukee concrete patio will help to ensure that the concrete is poured and cured properly. They will also give you guidance and support when it comes to care during the curing process to help prevent early cracking and quality assurance. 

JBS Construction can support all of your concrete patio installation and care needs. With extensive experience providing a variety of distinctive patio designs within the Milwaukee area, we have a thorough understanding of the time of year that is best to carry out work that will stay looking new for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our Milwaukee concrete patio services.