Concrete is one of the most durable, versatile, and dependable materials in outdoor construction. It’s used for patios, driveways, walkways, foundations, sport courts, and more. But despite its popularity, concrete is surrounded by myths — especially when it comes to cracking, strength, and long-term performance.
At Vicente Outdoor Living, we help homeowners understand what concrete can do, what it can’t do, and how to build surfaces that last for decades. If you’re planning a concrete project, here are the most common myths you’ll hear — and the facts that actually matter.
This is the biggest myth in the industry.
All concrete has the potential to crack — even when installed perfectly.
Why?
When these are done right, cracks are minimal, controlled, and often barely noticeable.
Thickness matters, but it’s not the only factor.
Strength depends on:
A thin slab with great engineering outperforms a thick slab with bad prep every time.
Some homeowners believe concrete is strong enough on its own.
The base is everything.
A solid, compacted base:
Without a proper base, even the best concrete mix will fail.
Unsealed concrete is more vulnerable to staining, weathering, and water absorption.
Sealing isn’t mandatory — but it’s highly recommended.
Sealed concrete:
It’s a small investment with long-term benefits.
Concrete is low maintenance, not no maintenance.
Minimal care helps concrete last longer:
With light upkeep, concrete can last 30+ years.
Gone are the days of plain gray slabs.
Concrete can be:
You can customize concrete to match modern, rustic, traditional, or luxury aesthetics.
Concrete doesn’t “dry”; it cures, and curing is a long process.
Concrete reaches:
Proper curing helps concrete:
Skipping proper curing reduces lifespan significantly.
Some believe reinforcement is only for commercial or industrial work.
Rebar or fiber mesh is essential for:
Reinforcement keeps concrete stable as the ground shifts over time.
Weather affects concrete more than people realize.
Extreme heat or cold impacts:
Professional installers adjust timing, mix, and techniques based on weather conditions.
This misconception is everywhere.
Concrete includes:
Cement alone is not a usable building material.
Unfortunately, this often ends in disappointment.
Professionals understand:
DIY concrete often cracks, crumbles, or settles early because the process is far more technical than it looks.
Experience and technique vary widely.
A skilled concrete team:
A great installation can last decades — a poor one may fail within years.
Tell us your project ideas, and we’ll design a concrete solution that’s strong, beautiful, and built to last.
