Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Hot Weather Concreting

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Chill out! 

Hot weather doesn't have to leave you cold!
Do you face the the same problems every summer when the sun shines and the heat rises?  Hot weather can cause concrete to be weaker, it can heighten the potential for uncontrolled cracking and it's durability will be compromised if you don't handle the situation correctly.
Why is hot weather a problem in the first place?
Concrete hydrates as it sets, this is an exothermic reaction and generates heat. When the concrete is already a higher temperature than the ideal temp of less than 80 degrees and is exposed to elements like hot sun, humidity and wind this process is accelerated.  The real issue here is the temperature of the concrete, not the temperature of the air.

Crystals grow around the aggregate particles when cement hydrates and absorbs water.  When the concrete temperature is too high those crystals form too rapidly without a chance for them to grow strong.

The strength will seem to be sufficient for the first 28 days but then it declines markedly.  For example, concrete that is 18 degrees higher than the ideal when poured will have a 10% decrease in compressive strength after the initial 28 days.

Slump diminishes rapidly as cement sets in hot weather, and adding more water when mixing is necessary however, by doing so causes the concrete's strength to diminish.  In colored concrete it can even lead to variations in color when the amount of water added to one batch is significantly more than the next batch. 

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What steps can I take to ensure properly finished concrete in extreme temperatures?
If temperatures are over 90 degrees precautions need to be taken to ensure your concrete sets correctly.

Getting concrete that is as cool as possible is a priority, preferably less than 80 degrees.  Being the main ingredient in concrete, aggregate should be kept in a cool place and out of the sun.  Lowering the concrete temperature can be as easy as using cold water or even ice in place of water.

There are a few other simple steps to take when concreting in hot weather:
  • cooling down concrete materials before mixing
  • using cold water and even ice for mixing concrete
  • set-retarding admixtures can be used if done correctly
  • putting up shelter from the wind and sun
  • misting and fogging
  • placing and finishing as quickly as possible
  • having extra hands to help finish more quickly
  • placing after dark when the heat has gone down or in the morning before the sun rises

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Protect your hard earned investment with the one and only Gator Skin® Tool Protector, Conditioner, and Lubricant.  This specially formulated product was designed to lubricate, condition, and protect your concrete and masonry tools from rust and corrosion.

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Fall River Manufacturing Company/Gator Tools manufactures professional tools and accessories for concrete, plaster, and EIFS.  

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