With the onslaught of colder weather, property owners in Missouri may wonder if pouring concrete in winter conditions is possible. The answer is yes! With the proper precautions and expert guidance, a successful concrete pour in winter is achievable.
Arnold Ready Mix, the most trusted ready-mix concrete provider in Jefferson County, MO, is here to offer our expertise and guidance on ensuring a seamless ready-mix concrete pour in even the coldest of Missouri winters.
This blog article will outline the steps and precautions necessary to achieve a successful concrete pour in winter.
Understanding Cold Weather Concreting
Pouring concrete in winter weather requires a thorough understanding of the challenges and considerations resulting from low-temperature conditions. According to the American Concrete Institute (ACI), cold weather concreting is any period with daily air temperature averaging below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and remains below 50 degrees Fahrenheit for more than half of any 24 hours. When these conditions exist, protecting the concrete from freezing immediately after being poured is essential to prevent a significant loss of strength.
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Preparing for a Winter Concrete Pour
Before scheduling a winter concrete pour, planning the project's specific requirements with a reputable ready-mix concrete company like Arnold Ready Mix is crucial to the success of the pour. By collaborating with professionals, you can ensure that the necessary strategies, materials, and testing procedures are in place to meet your project's needs.
Ordering the Right Concrete Mix
When ordering ready-mix concrete for a winter pour, it is essential to communicate your cold-weather protection requirements to the concrete supplier. Specify the desired design and strength of the concrete, ensuring it meets the necessary standards for cold weather concreting.
Preheating Materials
Preheating the constituent materials, such as water and aggregates, can be beneficial to maintain the desired temperature while pouring concrete in winter conditions. Look for a ready-mix supplier that can heat the water and store the aggregates in warm indoor locations before mixing.
This ensures that the concrete mix remains at an optimal temperature for proper curing and strength development.
Site Preparation
Before pouring concrete in winter, prepare the site to prevent any adverse effects from low temperatures. Ground that is frozen or covered in snow or ice can hinder the curing process. Consider using heaters to thaw the ground, if necessary, and remove any ice, snow, or water from the pour area. Additionally, protect the workers and concrete from wind and weather that may cause rapid temperature drops and excessive evaporation (more about that below).
During Concrete Placement
While pouring concrete in winter, there are specific practices that can help overcome the challenges posed by low temperatures. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the concrete sets and cures properly, resulting in a strong and durable finished product.
Monitoring Concrete Temperature
Monitoring the concrete temperature during the pour is crucial to prevent freezing and maintain optimal curing conditions. Use infrared thermometers or dial pocket thermometers to regularly test the concrete temperature, ensuring it remains above 50 degrees Fahrenheit for the curing process to be successful.
Windbreaks and Enclosures
Protecting the project site from wind is essential when pouring concrete during winter. Windbreaks, such as temporary barriers, can shield the pour area from strong gusts that may cause rapid temperature drops and excessive evaporation. In some cases, heated enclosures may be necessary to maintain the desired concrete temperature during hydration and curing. These enclosures should be windproof, weatherproof, and adequately ventilated to prevent carbon dioxide build-up.
Accelerating Admixtures and Adjusting Cement Content
When discussing your project with your ready-mix supplier, ask whether using accelerating admixtures can be beneficial. While these additives can increase the hydration rate and shorten the setting time (allowing the concrete to gain strength more rapidly), certain additives may not be compatible with steel reinforcements, resulting in corrosion issues.
Your ready-mix supplier may also recommend increasing the cement content in the concrete mix to generate additional heat and accelerate the hydration process. Adding an extra 100 pounds per cubic yard of concrete can help maintain the desired temperature and promote faster strength development.
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Extending Curing Period
Pouring concrete in winter means a more extended curing period than in warmer conditions. Extend the curing period by maintaining the concrete temperature above 40 degrees Fahrenheit from a minimum of 24 hours to at least four additional days to allow the concrete to develop the necessary strength.
Gradual Cooling Process
When removing heated enclosures or blankets, sudden temperature differentials can lead to cracking. Gradually cooling the concrete over several days or weeks can help prevent thermal stress and ensure uniform curing. Monitor the concrete temperature and take appropriate measures to protect the concrete during the cooling process.
Sealing and Protection
After completing the curing process, consider applying a concrete sealant to protect the surface from water penetration and potential damage. This step is essential in cold weather, as moisture can freeze and cause cracking. Choose a breathable sealant that allows for moisture evaporation, ensuring the concrete's long-term durability.
Arnold Ready-Mix Your Trusted Partner for Winter Concrete PoursExpert Guidance and Assistance
Pouring concrete in winter requires expertise, careful planning, and the right resources. To ensure a successful concrete pour in cold Missouri winters, seek the guidance of professionals like Arnold Ready Mix. With our decades of experience in ready-mix concrete we can provide custom solutions and expert advice to meet your specific project requirements.
With three mixing plants in Jefferson County, Arnold Ready-Mix is well-equipped to cater to all your concrete needs, even in the coldest Missouri winters. Our dedicated team of concrete experts take pride in delivering high-quality concrete and providing personalized guidance to ensure the success of your winter concrete pour.
Contact Arnold Ready Mix today for expert advice on winter concrete pours and a free quote.