Preparing the Site for Cold Weather Pouring
If you’ re anything like me, you’ ve probably tried to tackle a task without preparing properly and regretted it halfway through. Pouring concrete in winter is no different. Here are a few steps to get your site winter-ready:
• Clear the area: Snow and ice on the ground can interfere with concrete placement. Make sure the site is clear, dry and free of debris.
• Warm the subgrade: If the ground is frozen, it can pull heat away from the concrete, slowing curing and causing uneven results. Use ground heaters, or insulated blankets, to warm the subgrade before you pour.
• Protect against wind chill:
Wind can rapidly cool freshly poured concrete, so setting up windbreaks or tarps around the site can make a big difference.
• Plan for access accommodations: If equipment or workers struggle to navigate icy or snowy conditions, take steps to improve access – gravel, salt or sand can help stabilize the area.
Investing time in site prep might feel like an extra hassle, but it’ s a small price to pay for concrete that performs well in the long term.
Choosing the Right Mix for Winter
Not all concrete mixes are created equal, especially in winter. The mix you use during warmer months may not cut it when temperatures drop. For instance, concrete with a lower slump,( the consistency of fresh concrete before it’ s poured), freezes more slowly. Cold weather calls for a more specialized approach.
• Accelerators: Adding accelerators like calcium chloride can speed up the curing process, helping concrete gain strength before freezing temperatures set in. Be cautious though, as too much calcium chloride can lead to discoloration or corrosion in reinforced concrete.
• Lower water-to-cement ratio: Excess water can increase the risk of freezing, so opt for a mix with a lower water-to-cement ratio. This reduces the likelihood of cracks and improves durability.
10 January 10, 2025 www. contractorshotline. com