The key to a successful concrete installation is preparation, especially when pouring concrete in summer in Missouri. So if your DIY plans include a new patio or other outdoor projects, here is everything you need to know to get a flawless finished project – no matter how hot it is!
Impact of Heat and Humidity When Pouring Concrete in Summer
For us long-time Jefferson County residents, the summer heat index is just par for the course. While the heat itself isn’t particularly extreme, the combination of higher temperatures and airborne moisture can pose a challenge for homeowners planning a DIY concrete pour due to the dramatic impact on the setting time and strength of the finished concrete mix.
As Jefferson County’s ready-mix experts, we know that special precautions are needed to ensure a successful pour that cures properly with the appropriate strength, especially if you plan to pour in temperatures around 90 degrees or more.
Here are our recommendations for pouring concrete this summer in Missouri.
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Planning for Your Concrete Pour
When you contact Arnold to schedule your ready-mix concrete pour, you can rest assured that we will take all the necessary precautions to protect the quality of your concrete mix. For example, we will use the coolest water possible during the mix preparation to combat fast-setting times.
Additionally, to offset the impact hot temperatures have on your concrete mix, we often recommend using admixtures in the concrete mix.
What are Admixtures?
Admixtures are concrete additives that alter the physical qualities of the finished slab.
They can improve concrete strength, offer corrosion protection and slow down setting time depending on the admixture used. (See below for more info on setting times.)
A few specific admixtures we may recommend when pouring concrete in summer are:
- Set Retardation
- Air-Entrainment
- Hydration Stabilizers
- Water Reducers
During Your Concrete Pour
When pouring concrete in summer, you may need to take additional precautions against faster setting times and evaporation.
Faster Setting Times
Warm temperatures can cause the setting time of ready-mix concrete to decrease - that is, the concrete will set faster the warmer the weather.
Concrete that sets too fast is incredibly difficult to manage, even for a team of people. If the mix hardens before the concrete surface is entirely smooth, the finished surface will be uneven, reducing strength.
However, rapidly setting concrete mix isn’t an issue for vertical structures, such as walls and fence posts. If your concrete sets too fast to make it into the mold, add cool water until the mix returns to the desired consistency.
Evaporation
When concrete sets in warm weather, the moisture in the ready-mix begins to evaporate. Keeping the slab moistened is vital to the success of the pour.
After Your Concrete Pour
After the concrete has set, keeping concrete damp while curing is crucial for a long-lasting slab.
Without adequate time to cure, the strength and durability of the concrete are in jeopardy.
To cure your concrete correctly, we recommend the following:
- Periodically turning on nearby sprinklers, set to a “spray” setting.
- Manually spaying the slab with a hose throughout the day.
- Covering the slab with a wet cloth. If you use this method, re-moisten the cloth regularly to compensate for evaporation.
Conclusion: Pouring Concrete in Summer is Possible with Arnold Ready-Mix
Pouring concrete in the heat of Missouri’s summers is possible when a few extra steps and precautions are put in place to accommodate the heat and humidity. With 60 years of ready-mix experience in Jefferson County, our family-owned business is here to answer all your questions and provide you with our 5-star customer service during delivery. Contact us today for your free quote!