It’s a common misconception concrete pours best in hot weather, when overcast, damp weather and mild temperatures of autumn are better.

Moisture is very important to setting concrete, and extreme heat dries the water content too quickly, making the concrete weak. Cold weather can turn the water into ice. Ice expands and can crack the concrete. Fall is the best weather for turning your dreams into concrete reality.

Remember spending the summer drifting away in crooked chairs on the lumpy lawn? The backyard concrete patio is a simple and elegant solution to too much yard and not enough places to sit.

Or maybe you are set in terms of backyard upgrades, and spend more time looking out the front door. Before watching your holiday visitors roll in and out of the driveway, you may entertain thoughts on improving this important accessway.

In general, a driveway serves dual purposes: style and function. Good looks are a major part of the curb appeal equation. Beyond a parking spot, the driveway often serves as a ramp to launch new bikers or skaters, or as a court for multiple sports.

As concrete “matures,” fissures inevitably develop, affecting functionality.

As water seeps into these cracks over time, it can cause the concrete to crumble into the supporting gravel, forming potholes. Cracks should be patched as soon as possible with asphalt or concrete sealant. Patching is a DIY job but is only meant for smaller cracks (less than 1/4-inch wide). It should be regarded as a short-term solution.

Once damage covers 25% of the driveway or patio, homeowners should consider resurfacing - scraping off damaged parts and pouring on new asphalt or concrete. Resurfacing is a job requiring experience. Less expensive than complete replacement, resurfacing can add up to 10 more years to concrete life.

With anything beyond moderate damage, it is more cost-effective to replace, especially if the driveway is more than 15 years old.

Whether you decide to patch cracks or replace the entire driveway, maintenance is key to helping your concrete last.

Mother Nature likes to put weeds and other plants in cracks or between driveway sections. While not usually harmful, it is still unsightly. Consider pulling them or using herbicide.

Shovel snow instead of salting, which can cause cracks. Pressure wash at least once every year. Cleans spills and stains as soon as noticed.

If you decide to pour new concrete, make sure to allow it to set at least a week before use. If you do get stuck pouring concrete on a hot day, use a temporary tent or screen to keep the sun from beating down on the new slab.

In colder weather, cover the concrete immediately after pouring and use an insulator like blankets or straw over plastic. Keep the insulated cover on for at least 72 hours. As the concrete hardens, it generates heat that will help the water in the concrete to not freeze.

During the long winter ahead, you can warm your heart with thoughts of using your new concrete facilities next year!