The Science Behind Concrete Strength and Endurance

Concrete is known for its toughness—but not all concrete is created equal. If you’ve ever seen a cracked driveway or a crumbling patio, you’ve seen what happens when shortcuts are taken. 

At Lymm Construction, we believe concrete should be built to last, and that starts with understanding the science behind it. 

Here’s what really gives concrete its strength—and what helps it stand the test of time in Omaha’s tough climate. 

What Makes Concrete Strong? 

Ingredients Matter

At first glance, concrete might seem like a simple material—a blend of cement, water, and aggregate. But in construction, simplicity doesn’t mean forgiving. The quality and proportions of each ingredient dramatically impact the strength, durability, and longevity of the final product. 

One of the most critical elements is the water-to-cement ratio. Too much water and the concrete becomes weak, prone to cracking and surface damage. Too little water, and the mix becomes stiff and difficult to work with, leading to poor compaction and reduced strength. 

At Lymm Construction, we take this balance seriously. We use premium limestone aggregate, known for its hardness, consistency, and excellent bonding properties. This helps produce a dense, stable slab that resists wear and holds up beautifully over time—even under Nebraska’s extreme seasonal conditions. 

Curing Is Critical

Contrary to popular belief, concrete doesn't "dry" in the traditional sense—it cures. This is a chemical reaction called hydration, where water and cement react to form a hard, stone-like material. Curing is essential for developing the concrete's full strength and durability. 

Most concrete achieves roughly 70% of its total strength within the first 7 days, but full curing takes about 28 days. During this period, the concrete must be protected from moisture loss, temperature extremes, and mechanical stress. If it dries out too quickly or is exposed to harsh conditions before it's ready, the surface can crack or flake, and the internal structure may remain weak. 

That’s why at Lymm Construction, we implement careful curing practices from day one. Whether it’s using curing blankets, applying sealers, or monitoring weather conditions closely, we ensure that your concrete has the best environment to reach its full potential. 

What Impacts Concrete Longevity?

Concrete is durable by design, but it’s not invincible—especially in a place like Nebraska, where weather and wear can take a serious toll. At Lymm Construction, we build every slab to withstand the elements and everyday use. Here are some of the key factors we plan for on every job: 

Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Nebraska winters are no joke. When water seeps into the pores or cracks of concrete and freezes, it expands, causing internal pressure that can lead to cracking, scaling, or spalling. 

Repeated freeze-thaw cycles over time can significantly weaken untreated or poorly installed slabs. That’s why we use low-porosity limestone aggregate and ensure proper finishing and sealing to reduce water infiltration. 

Deicers and Surface Chemicals

Ice-melting salts and other chemicals can break down concrete surfaces, especially when used frequently or in high concentrations. These substances can accelerate the freeze-thaw damage and contribute to surface pitting or flaking. 

We always recommend using concrete-safe deicers and apply sealants when appropriate to protect your slab through the winter. 

Heavy Loads

Driveways, parking pads, and trailer slabs take a beating—especially when they regularly support heavy vehicles or equipment. If the concrete isn’t thick enough or lacks proper reinforcement, it can crack under pressure or develop ruts over time. 

Lymm Construction pours every slab to a minimum of 5 inches and reinforces it with rebar, giving it the strength to handle the heaviest loads without compromise. 

Improper Drainage

Standing water is one of concrete’s worst enemies. Poor drainage can lead to pooling, erosion around the slab edges, and even structural shifting as the ground beneath becomes unstable. 

We always assess site grading and incorporate proper slope and water management strategies to ensure water flows away from your slab—not under 

Long-Lasting Omaha Concrete 

With over 30 years of experience pouring concrete in the Omaha area, Lymm Construction has earned a reputation for concrete that doesn’t just look good—it lasts. We don’t believe in shortcuts, and we never settle for “good enough.” Here’s what sets our work apart: 

5 Inches Thick, Every Time

While many contractors pour to the industry minimum, we go beyond. Every slab we install is a full 5 inches thick. That extra depth adds significant strength and resistance to cracking, making your concrete more resilient under pressure and over time.

Rebar Reinforcement

Reinforcement isn’t optional—it’s standard on every project we do. We install rebar throughout the slab to minimize the risk of cracking and to help your concrete withstand heavy loads like vehicles, trailers, and equipment without shifting or sinking.

Proper Grading and Drainage

Even the strongest concrete can fail if water isn’t managed properly. We take the time to grade and slope each project to ensure water runs off the surface—not toward your foundation or pooling in low spots. Good drainage preserves the integrity of your slab and the surrounding area.

Limestone Aggregate

We exclusively use limestone aggregate in our mix. It’s denser, more consistent, and bonds better than other materials, producing a tougher, longer-lasting surface. This matters in the Midwest, where freeze-thaw cycles and seasonal extremes put concrete to the test. 

Strategic Control Joints

Cracks in concrete are inevitable—but where they happen can be controlled. We install control joints in precise locations to allow the concrete to crack in a planned, predictable way. These joints relieve stress and help your surface stay structurally sound and visually clean. 

Concrete Myths—Busted

There’s a lot of misinformation out there about concrete—especially when it comes to what makes it strong and what to expect after it's poured. Let’s clear up a few of the most common myths we hear: 

Myth: Thicker is always better.

Not quite. While thickness does contribute to strength, it’s only part of the equation. If the sub-base beneath the concrete isn’t properly compacted and prepared, even a thick slab can crack or settle unevenly. A well-supported, properly reinforced 5-inch slab—like we pour at Lymm Construction—is far more effective than a thicker one poured over loose or poorly graded soil. 

Myth: Concrete dries in a day.

Concrete hardens quickly, but it doesn’t fully "dry" in the way most people think. What’s actually happening is curing—a chemical process that continues over time. While it may feel solid after a day or two, concrete doesn’t reach its full strength until about 28 days have passed. That’s why proper curing practices are so important in the early stages. 

Myth: Cracks mean the concrete failed.

Not necessarily. Small surface cracks are common and often harmless. Concrete naturally shrinks as it cures, which can lead to hairline cracks. That’s why we place control joints in specific locations—to direct those cracks where they won’t impact the slab’s performance or appearance. With good reinforcement and proper joint placement, minor cracking is nothing to worry about. 

Understanding the truth behind these common myths helps you make smarter decisions about your concrete project. At Lymm Construction, we combine experience with education—so you know exactly what to expect, and you get a slab that performs the way it should for decades to come. 

Why Homeowners and Businesses Trust Lymm Construction

At Lymm Construction, we bring more than three decades of hands-on experience to every project—along with a deep understanding of what it takes to build concrete that stands up to Nebraska’s toughest conditions. We don’t believe in shortcuts or “quick fixes.” We believe in craftsmanship, proper technique, and doing it right the first time. 

Whether you’re replacing a driveway, finishing a basement, or adding a new outdoor space, you deserve concrete that’s not only functional but dependable for decades to come. 

Let’s Build Something That Lasts.

Strong, durable concrete starts with the right team. If you’re ready to invest in quality that performs season after season, get in touch with Lymm Construction today to schedule your consultation. We’re here to help you build with confidence—from the ground up.