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If you’re planning to pour concrete during winter, it’s essential to be mindful of the weather. Cold weather can affect the curing process, which can ultimately impact the integrity and quality of the finished product. Before your concrete delivery arrives, make sure that you’re prepared for the job with this important information.

Weather Conditions Matter

The temperature plays an enormous role in determining the quality of your concrete project. If it’s going to be below 40° Fahrenheit for at least three days or more, then you need to take special precautions to prepare the ground first. When your concrete delivery arrives in its liquid state, it has the potential to freeze when temperatures drop even further. That could affect its ability to withstand pressure, foot traffic, and general exposure to the elements. It’s critical to monitor the concrete’s temperature and prevent it from freezing for the first day, allowing it more time to reach the necessary 500 pounds per square inch (psi) to remain stable.

Avoid Frozen Ground

O'Fallon, MO concrete deliveryUpon concrete delivery, it’s essential to act promptly to ensure that the substance remains warm throughout the entire process. The ground should be fully thawed to prevent the concrete from settling poorly and potentially cracking when it’s dry. Ideally, the concrete and subgrade temperatures should mirror one another. Steaming the ground is one way to heat it to the optimal temperature. If there are no time constraints, you can also cover it with insulation for several days to absorb and retain residual heat.

Warm the Concrete

During the curing process, concrete naturally discharges heat. It’s crucial to block heat from escaping to avoid affecting the structure’s strength. You can cover the surface with a curing blanket to lock heat inside and help it cure more quickly during winter. A heated enclosure is also a smart choice that will maintain a more stable temperature inside and prevent exposure to the elements. It’s critical to keep that elevated temperature for several days to ensure that the concrete cures properly and the final product is as stable as possible.
 

You can trust in the concrete suppliers at Schreiter Ready Mix & Materials in O’Fallon, MO, to provide you with the materials that you need for your upcoming project. Whether you’re constructing a patio, a retaining wall, or a pool deck, you can count on them to produce the most appropriate mix for the job. Visit the website to find out more about concrete delivery, or give them a call at (636) 240-2600 to speak with a representative.

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