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Tree roots don’t necessarily break through concrete on their own, but they can certainly take advantage of existing cracks, even very small ones. As roots grow, they expand the cracks, making them larger and leading to serious and costly foundation damage. It’s a good idea to have repairs on any foundation cracks you’re concerned about.

New concrete can crack within 12 hours of finishing, as it can be a common occurrence as the concrete dries and cures. Certain weather conditions and temperatures can slow or speed up the cracking. A concrete contractor plans for cracking during the drying process and keeps some of it at bay by installing control joints.

Most of the time, you or your contractor will spray the concrete form and framework with a release agent or oil to prevent sticking. This is common practice with wood and steel forms. For insulated concrete forms, the styrofoam formwork often remains in place after construction, so you don’t need to treat it beforehand. Foam concrete forms made out of melamine also may not need treatment beforehand, as the material naturally won’t stick to the concrete after it’s cured.

Whether a concrete walkway or sidewalk needs rebar depends on how it will be used. Walkways and sidewalks meant for light foot traffic don’t need rebar, and you can use wire mesh instead. But concrete surfaces that will see heavy machinery will likely need it.