Concrete Myths Debunked: What Homeowners Need to Know
Is all concrete the same? Concrete is just concrete… right?
Not quite. While it might all look the same at first glance, not all concrete work is created equal, and if you're a homeowner in Omaha, understanding the difference can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration down the road.
At Lymm Construction, we’ve seen firsthand how cutting corners on concrete leads to cracks, drainage issues, and premature repairs. That’s why we’re setting the record straight. In this blog, we’re debunking the most common concrete myths and explaining what really makes a quality concrete job—from the mix itself to the contractor behind the pour.
Myth #1: All Concrete Is the Same
Truth: The mix matters—and so does the aggregate.
At first glance, one concrete driveway might look a lot like the next. But dig a little deeper, literally, and you'll find major differences in quality, strength, and longevity depending on what’s in the mix.
Not all concrete is created equal. The materials used, how they’re proportioned, and even what type of aggregate is included can dramatically impact how long your concrete lasts and how well it stands up to Omaha’s weather.
At Lymm Construction, we don’t cut corners. Every job we take on uses a limestone aggregate concrete mix that’s designed for durability. Why limestone? It bonds better with cement, creating a stronger internal structure and a longer-lasting surface. Compared to lower-quality gravel or recycled mixes, limestone aggregate offers superior strength and a smoother finish.
We also pay close attention to mix design and PSI ratings (pounds per square inch), which tell us how much load the concrete can handle. Whether it’s a driveway, patio, or walkway, we make sure the mix is built to withstand real-world use, not just look good on day one.
So, the next time someone asks, “Is all concrete the same?”—you’ll know better. It’s what’s inside the mix (and who’s pouring it) that makes all the difference.
Myth #2: Once the concrete is poured, you’re good to go.
Truth: Proper prep, placement, and curing are everything.
Many homeowners think the hard part is over once the concrete hits the ground. But in reality, what happens before, during, and after the pour is just as important, especially if you want your Omaha concrete project to last for years to come.
At Lymm Construction, we follow a proven process that ensures long-term durability, not just a quick fix. It starts with proper site preparation. That means grading the area correctly, compacting the base, and planning for drainage—so water doesn’t pool and weaken the slab over time.
Next, we reinforce every project with rebar and pour a minimum of 5 inches of concrete, well above the industry standard. That extra thickness makes a big difference when it comes to supporting heavy vehicles, withstanding freeze-thaw cycles, and preventing early cracking.
But we don’t stop there. Curing is a critical step that too many contractors rush—or skip altogether. Concrete needs time to set properly, and when it’s rushed or exposed to the elements too soon, the surface becomes weak and more prone to cracking, flaking, and costly repairs down the line.
When it comes to Omaha concrete, the difference between a job that lasts and one that doesn’t often comes down to the details. And at Lymm Construction, we don’t leave those details to chance.
Myth #3: All contractors do it the same way.
Truth: Experience, process, and attention to detail vary greatly.
If you’ve met one concrete contractor, you’ve met them all… right? Not quite. When it comes to Omaha concrete, the quality of your finished project depends heavily on who you hire—and how much care they put into doing things the right way.
At Lymm Construction, we’ve been serving the Omaha area for over 30 years, and we’ve seen just about everything. What sets us apart isn’t just our experience—it’s our commitment to consistent quality, no matter the size of the job.
Here’s what a good contractor does differently:
Pulls the proper permits to make sure your project is up to code
Grades the site carefully to ensure stability and long-term drainage
Plans for water runoff so moisture doesn’t erode the slab or cause damage later
Uses rebar reinforcement and the correct concrete mix for your needs
Communicates clearly with you throughout the process
Unfortunately, not every contractor takes these steps, and homeowners often don’t realize something was skipped until problems start showing up months (or weeks) later.
Choosing a contractor who cuts corners might save a little up front, but in the long run, it can lead to cracking, settling, or even complete replacement. That’s why working with a trusted, local Omaha concrete expert like Lymm Construction is one of the smartest decisions you can make.
Myth #4: Concrete doesn’t need maintenance.
Truth: Even great concrete benefits from basic care.
Concrete is incredibly durable, but that doesn’t mean it’s maintenance-free. Even the highest-quality Omaha concrete jobs, like those installed by Lymm Construction, need a little attention over time to stay in top shape.
One of the simplest ways to protect your investment is with routine sealing. Applying a quality concrete sealer every few years helps prevent moisture from seeping into the surface, especially important in Omaha’s freeze-thaw climate, where expanding water can cause cracks and surface damage.
Another big one? Avoid de-icing salts. While they’re great at melting snow, they can be harsh on concrete surfaces, especially if the slab is newer or hasn’t been sealed properly. Sand or non-corrosive alternatives are much safer and just as effective for traction.
Finally, it’s important to keep an eye on drainage. If water is pooling around your driveway, patio, or walkway, it can weaken the base over time. Keeping gutters clear, maintaining proper slope, and watching for soil erosion can go a long way toward protecting your concrete.
The bottom line? A well-installed concrete slab should last decades, but a little upkeep goes a long way. With smart care and a strong foundation from Lymm Construction, your Omaha concrete can look great and perform beautifully for years to come.
The Bottom Line: Not All Concrete Is Created Equal
When it comes to concrete, the details matter—and so does the contractor you choose. From the strength of the mix to the quality of the installation, every step plays a role in how your project looks, functions, and holds up over time.
If you're investing in Omaha concrete, don't leave it to chance. Here’s what to look for to make sure you’re getting the quality your home deserves:
Homeowner Concrete Checklist
Ask about mix design and the type of aggregate used
Confirm the use of rebar reinforcement for added strength
Ensure the contractor plans for proper drainage and site grading
Make sure permits are pulled and local codes are followed
Choose a company with a proven track record and decades of experience
Protect Your Investment
Hiring the wrong contractor might save a little upfront, but it often leads to cracks, drainage issues, or uneven slabs that need to be repaired or replaced far too soon. We’ve worked with Omaha homeowners who came to us after a cheaper crew botched their pour, and fixing poor work always costs more in the long run.
At Lymm Construction, we do it right the first time. With over 30 years of experience, we’re proud to deliver long-lasting, visually clean, and structurally sound concrete for driveways, patios, walkways, and more—all across the Omaha area.
Work With the Omaha Concrete Experts
Have questions? Ready for a quote? Let us answer your questions and get your concrete project on the books. Reach out to Lymm Construction today and experience the difference that quality, care, and expertise make.