Concrete Reinforcement
John Crockett • March 10, 2025
Is FiberMesh reinforcement all I need in my concrete for our climate here in Harford and Cecil County, Maryland?
Is FiberMesh enough for my concrete project? The short answer, after 30 years of removing and replacing concrete, in my opinion; is no. For my concrete and the concrete we install for our residential customers, FiberMesh will always be in the mix. However, it won’t be the only reinforcement in our concrete. We here at Crockett & Sons Concrete, Inc always use FiberMesh as a secondary form of reinforcement and use rebar or wire mesh as the primary. Let me explain. I’m not a concrete engineer. I don’t have the data on any laboratory tests. But what I do know is that when I am demolishing concrete and learn that FiberMesh is the only reinforcement, it makes me happy. On the other hand, if I see wire or rebar in the concrete that I’m tearing out, I know that I’m going to work a lot harder that day. When a slab with FiberMesh only meets a jackhammer, it splits apart almost as easy as concrete with no reinforcement at all. Where rebar and wire mesh will hold the concrete together and require a lot of prying, and excessive blows to get the concrete to break into pieces. What does this mean for your slab? If your slab is tested to the limits for whatever reason, cracks, base issues, freeze/thaw, heavy loads, etc. It will be the rebar and wire mesh that may help to save the slab or at least extend the life of it. What’s better rebar or wire? We use #3 rebar on 16-24” centers each way for typical light duty driveways, patio, and sidewalk applications. These will typically be poured at 4” thick of a 4000 psi mix and include FiberMesh. Unfortunately sometimes concrete cracks regardless if everything is done by the book. We love our friends over at FiberMesh. But if our concrete does crack we want the extra help from rebar to help keep your slab structurally sound for years to come.
Upgrade your patio, driveway, or walkway with decorative stamped concrete. Crockett & Sons Concrete, delivers durable, custom designs with professional installation
Considering a concrete patio vs. a deck in Aberdeen, MD? Learn why concrete patios (including stamped and colored options) outperform wood decks
Concrete in the Winter: What Bel Air, MD Homeowners Need to Know Winter in Bel Air, Maryland brings freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and frequent freeze–thaw cycles — all of which can take a serious toll on your concrete surfaces. From driveways and sidewalks to patios and foundations, cold weather can cause cracking, scaling, and long-term structural damage if concrete isn’t properly installed or maintained. At Crockett & Sons Concrete, we’ve worked with Maryland homeowners for decades, and we know exactly how winter conditions affect concrete in Harford County. Here’s what you need to know to protect your concrete this winter — and when it’s still possible to pour concrete safely. How Winter Weather Affects Concrete in Bel Air, MD Bel Air winters are especially hard on concrete because of repeated freeze–thaw cycles. Water seeps into small pores and cracks, freezes, expands, and then thaws — slowly breaking the concrete apart from the inside. Common winter-related concrete problems include: Cracking and surface flaking (scaling) Spalling caused by moisture expansion Damage from deicing salts Heaving or shifting slabs Worsening of existing cracks Concrete that wasn’t properly mixed, cured, or sealed is especially vulnerable during Maryland winters. Can You Pour Concrete in the Winter? Yes — concrete can be poured in winter, but only when proper cold-weather procedures are followed. Professional concrete contractors in Bel Air, MD must take extra precautions, including: Using cold-weather concrete mixes Monitoring ground and air temperatures Protecting fresh concrete with insulated blankets Controlling moisture during curing Timing pours to avoid freezing conditions At Crockett & Sons Concrete, we follow industry best practices to ensure concrete cures correctly — even during colder months. Not every winter day is suitable for pouring, which is why experience matters. Winter Concrete Maintenance Tips for Homeowners If you already have concrete on your property, winter maintenance is essential to prevent damage and extend its lifespan. 1. Avoid Using Harsh Deicing Salts Rock salt and chemical deicers can penetrate concrete and accelerate deterioration. Instead, use sand or a concrete-safe deicer when possible. 2. Keep Concrete Clean and Dry Remove snow and ice promptly to reduce moisture absorption and prevent refreezing damage. 3. Seal Your Concrete Concrete sealing creates a protective barrier against water and salt intrusion. Fall is ideal, but sealing before or after winter can still help prevent future damage. 4. Address Small Cracks Early Small cracks can turn into major problems during freeze–thaw cycles. Repairing them early helps prevent costly repairs later. Why Professional Installation Matters in Cold Climates Concrete installed without proper reinforcement, drainage, or curing techniques is far more likely to fail in winter conditions. Hiring a local Bel Air concrete contractor ensures your project is designed specifically for Maryland’s climate. Crockett & Sons Concrete uses: Proper sub-base preparation Reinforced concrete where needed Climate-appropriate mixes Proven curing and protection methods This attention to detail helps your concrete withstand harsh winters year after year. Planning Concrete Projects for Spring Winter is the perfect time to plan your spring concrete project. Scheduling early ensures you’re first in line when temperatures rise and conditions are ideal for pouring. Popular spring projects include: Concrete driveways Patios and outdoor living spaces Sidewalks and walkways Foundations and footings Trusted Concrete Contractor in Bel Air, MD If you’re concerned about winter damage or planning a new concrete project, Crockett & Sons Concrete is here to help. We proudly serve Bel Air and surrounding Harford County communities with reliable, high-quality concrete services. 📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation or request a free estimate — and make sure your concrete is built to last through every Maryland winter.
Discover the differences between pavers and concrete, including cost, durability, maintenance, and best uses to help homeowners choose the right option.
Concrete driveway maintenance
Footing depth and local guidelines for foundations
