Chicago Concrete FAQ: Winter Pours, Salt, Cracks and Aprons

It can, but it costs more and suburbs restrict it. The working season runs roughly May through October, and winter work needs heated enclosures, hot water in the mix and insulated blankets, easily adding $2–$5 per square foot. Des Plaines won't allow flatwork when the day is forecast below 40 degrees, and requires it to be kept at 50 degrees for 72 hours. Joliet's flatwork minimum is 32 degrees and rising. Aprons have their own calendars: see Naperville and Aurora.

A 4,000 PSI minimum for any driveway or surface exposed to road salt and de-icers, at $0.50–$1.00 per square foot over a standard mix. Chicagoland driveways also need air-entrained concrete, whose tiny air pockets absorb freeze-thaw expansion. Ask for both in writing; the driveway page covers base depth, and the same questions apply to a backyard patio.

Repair a slab that sank but is still in one piece; replace concrete that is breaking up. For settled slabs, polyurethane raising runs $5–$7 per square foot, against $9–$16 per square foot to remove and replace. For a raised sidewalk joint on sound panels, grinding costs $100-$300 per joint. When the concrete itself is breaking up, replacement is the usual answer; the concrete repair guide compares the options and the cost guide shows replacement ranges.

Apply through 311 for the city's Shared Cost Sidewalk Program when it opens; the 2026 round opened on January 12, 2026, and places are first-come, first-served. Mention at the time of request if you want the driveway apron replaced too. The steps and costs are in Chicago concrete permits.

Usually a higher price: a pump adds $400–$800 when the truck can't reach. Tight alley clearances can keep a ready-mix truck from reaching a rear garage pour, which means a concrete pump at $400–$800 extra or smaller loads with short-load surcharges. Ask the company to confirm truck access before you sign; more on garage slabs.

Only above $1,000. Under Illinois' Home Repair and Remodeling Act, which covers driveways, a written contract or work order is required before work over $1,000 starts. Below that, a written quote is still the only way to hold a company to what it priced. The hiring guide lists what the contract should say.