CONCRETE PROJECTS IN COLD WEATHER

It’s getting cold outside, and winter is on the way. As soon as the average daily air temperature dips below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, concrete installations become all the more complicated. Installing concrete in the winter can be done, but it is a tricky process that must be carefully monitored and professionally executed. If you’re using gypsum concrete, it’s especially important to monitor the outcome carefully. Even if you’re laying concrete indoors, the risk is still high due to the cold weather conditions.

The concrete must be able to cure properly so that it develops its strength and doesn’t crack. Because the finished strength of the concrete is dependent on the temperature at which it has cured, it is vitally important to never pour concrete on frozen ground, snow, or ice. What’s more, it is essential to prevent the concrete from freezing for a period of time after it has been poured. Did you know that when fresh concrete freezes within the first 24 hours, it loses up to 50% of its potential finished strength? Special precautions must be taken to prevent this, such as using concrete with specially formulated properties, as well as the use of insulation blankets (or curing blankets).

Cleaning, polishing, surface enhancements, new constructions and even masonry all fall under the limiting effects of cold in the Twin Cities region, so plan ahead for your projects!

It is best to trust your concrete projects to the professionals, especially during the winter months. Since we have years of experience pouring concrete in Minnesota’s chilly climate, we really know what we’re doing! Eliminate the guesswork and choose the experts at Concrete Science. Give us a call today to talk about your options.