Construction engineers often face unique challenges while applying concrete in cold weather. Contractors have to consider a few important factors in order to perform efficient concrete applications in winter. 

First and foremost, the concrete mixture should be prepared according to the weather. This means the mixture should have a low water-to-cement ratio since the mixture with high water content has low freeze resistance.

Secondly, monitor the temperature of the concrete and the surface on which it will be applied to ensure efficient application. Generally, the concrete temperature is kept between 10 to 15 degree celsius but it is slightly increased in winter to prevent freezing issues.

Last but not the least, once the concrete is applied on the surface it's important to protect it from freezing. For this purpose, you can cover the concrete with insulated blankets or tarps. 

Moreover, use temporary heaters to heat the entire area where concrete is being applied. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your concrete application is successful even in cold weather conditions!

The article will further discuss some more useful tips for the successful application of concrete. However, you should always hire a professional concrete contractor such as SprayForce Concrete to avoid issues during concrete application.

Avoid Concrete Application On Cold Surface

Extreme cold and hot temperature is not only uncomfortable for living things but also affects non-living things. Similarly, concrete can get cracked or crumble if applied on a cold surface. Also, it will take too long to settle if the surface has more moisture.

Hence, it is crucial to avoid the concrete application if the surface is frozen or contains snow. Also, try to use a curing compound with the concrete mixture to form a protective barrier that prevents moisture and other elements from causing damage.

Do Not Rely On Traditional Methods

For successful concrete or structural shotcrete application in cold weather, one has to make additional efforts instead of relying on traditional methods. Here are a few advanced techniques:

• Use additives that can help concrete settle quickly before reaching its freezing level

• Apply thin layers of concrete as they can dry quickly leaving a stronger layer

• Keep the surface hot by using heaters and heating blankets

• Apply concrete in layers and wait for each layer to settle down accurately before the application of another layer. This will prevent cracking and other issues that can occur due to freezing.

Use Heating Equipments

As discussed earlier, we have to maintain the temperature of the surface as well as the concrete mixture. Therefore, different types of heating equipment are installed on the work site. 

A major advantage of using heaters is that it prevents the concrete from settling down too quickly and makes it easy to apply. However, you might come across various types of heaters that are used for this purpose. Try to get in touch with an expert concrete contractor for selecting an appropriate heater.

Try To Work During The Daytime,

As a matter of fact, the winter season has very short days. Daylight is there for a very short time. Therefore, even if you have to follow a tight schedule, try to apply concrete during daylight so that you can work in relatively warmer temperatures.

Furthermore, if you are working during the day you might not need additional heaters and lamps.

Use Temperature Sensors

Temperature sensors are extremely helpful for detecting temperature changes. These sensors can give you accurate readings according to the concrete temperature so that you can make adjustments if the temperature is lower than a suitable level.

By using temperature sensors you can avoid various problems such as:

• Concrete freezing during application

• Lack of required strength in concrete 

• A quick change in temperature

• Cracks in the applied layer of concrete

• Issues in the curing procedure

Use Concrete Sealers

Concrete sealers are extremely helpful in providing weather resistance. The sealers limit the concrete exposure to cold weather, due to which you can easily maintain concrete temperature for a long period of time.

No doubt sealing is extremely beneficial but you should hire a professional constructor since they have a better understanding of the temperature level at which sealing is essential.

Usually, experts do not recommend concrete sealing if the temperature is less than 10 degrees Celsius but their decisions can vary according to the situation. Therefore expert advice is highly important in this case.

Final Words

Concrete application is not as simple as it looks. One has to consider several factors to successfully complete this task. Unfortunately, this process becomes more difficult in cold weather. 

In winter, concrete contractors take additional measures to protect concrete from freezing and damage. The article has mentioned a few techniques to protect concrete from getting damaged. Due to their positive professional and performance impact, these techniques are followed all around the world. 

This is why you should always hire a professional expert for your construction project instead of handling concrete pouring and curing procedures on your own.