Winter Durability Test: My Cement Paper Clay Results

After a long winter here in Ontario Canada, I finally had the chance to inspect my outdoor concrete sculptures to see how they held up. If you’ve been following my experiments with cement paper clay, you know I’m always looking for that perfect balance of strength and versatility.

I am thrilled to report that the piece made with my Cement Paper Clay recipe has proven to be incredibly resilient. Despite the freezing temperatures and constant moisture, there are no signs of cracking or crumbling. Here is why this medium is becoming a staple for my outdoor art:

• Exceptional Bond: The combination of paper fiber and high-performance cement creates a dense matrix that resists the typical “freeze-thaw” damage often seen in standard concrete.
• Surface Integrity: Even with intricate details, the surface remains smooth and intact, preserving the original texture of the sculpture.
• Moisture Resistance: The material didn’t absorb excess water since I sealed it with concrete sealer, which is crucial for preventing internal pressure and splitting when the temperature drops.

How cold was it?

Let me just say; last winter was exceptionally brutal! It was as cold as -21ºC! It also took quite a while to warm up this spring and the snow to melt since we had much more snow than most other years!

Look closely above to see the snails antennae poking through the snow. I placed the snail in an elevated place to make sure it was not stepped on by a deer since they often come looking to snack on my plants during the winter months.

To make sure that projects can endure I purposely leave my concrete out all year long. That is why choose this media.

One of the challenges of outdoor longevity is also colour. Sunlight is very strong and can make paint fade. It is best to use the proper paints for that reason. Here are my tips for painting outdoor Concrete Projects from my experience. Generally I like the look of natural aged concrete, it gives that traditional charm of artifacts, even better yet if moss can grow on it! ‘But growing moss can be a challenge.

How well did my other concrete projects last?

The unique technique of using fabric dipped in cement has also stood the tests of winter weather. My giant concrete mushrooms may look a bit odd in the middle of winter poking through the snow but I intend to put them to the test!

These were not my first projects using the concrete draping method.

My concrete Step Spook has been outside for about 10 years now!

I am happy to say that these have made it through 2 winters now and the Outdoor Patio paint has helped keep the red strong! Always make sure that there are no voids that will collect water, that is a key thing to keep in mind. Remember that when things freeze they expand = cracking and breaking.

Seeing how well this sculpted Snail survived the season gives me even more confidence to push the boundaries of cement clay sculpting in the coming years.

The colour and sealing may also have played a factor with this one. When I sculpted the snail form I am careful what type of material I use. It is never a good idea to use something that will absorb water.

This faux concrete rock that this snail sits on is also ‘madebybarb’ and is quite lightweight.

Welcome Spring & Summer!

I am looking forward to playing in the garden, perhaps adding a new concrete project… The leaves are starting to emerge and can provide much inspiration and also concrete casting opportunities.

How have your projects held up? If we all collaborate we learn from each other.