The 3C three-minute read.
Construction can’t just stop because temperatures drop - and at 3C Services, we know that pouring concrete in cold weather is possible with the proper preparation and precautions.
Whether you're tackling a domestic project, large-scale construction work or highway maintenance, it’s essential to understand how colder conditions affect the process and what steps both suppliers and on-site contractors can take to ensure the concrete strengthens properly.
Key factors to consider when pouring concrete in cold weather
Pouring concrete in cold weather requires extra care to ensure it cures properly and maintains its strength. Let’s look at what you need to bear in mind to successfully pour and set concrete during winter months.
1. Outside temperature
Concrete sets best when the temperature is above 5°C. If the temperature drops below this, the curing process slows significantly and freezing temperatures can cause damage before the concrete sets. Monitoring the weather forecast is crucial so you can plan pours during milder conditions, if possible.
2. Temperature of the mix
Concrete that is too cold won’t set correctly, so maintaining the right mix temperature is vital.
At 3C Services, our volumetric mixers allow us to batch concrete on-site, ensuring it’s freshly mixed at the optimal temperature for cold weather conditions.
3. Frost or ground temperature
Pouring concrete on frozen ground or frost can lead to uneven curing or cracking.
Contractors on-site should ensure the ground is thawed, dry and insulated before the pour begins. Using heaters, thermal blankets or ground mats is a good way to prepare the base and raise the temperature of frozen ground before pouring.
4. Cooling and setting period
Cold weather slows the hydration process, meaning it takes longer for concrete to achieve its initial strength. It’s important to protect the concrete from frost or freezing while it’s setting and allow extra time in cold conditions.
You can protect the concrete by insulating it immediately after pouring it with curing blankets or tarps. For larger pours, windbreaks or temporary shelters can help maintain a better environment.
Why choose 3C for winter concrete pours?
At 3C Services, we’re best placed to ensure your winter concrete pours go smoothly.
Freshly mixed, on-site concrete
Thanks to our fleet of volumetric concrete mixers, we can deliver and mix concrete on-site, ensuring the perfect consistency and temperature for winter conditions. This flexibility also eliminates wastage, so you only pay for what you need.
24/7 availability
Winter days are short, but we’re always on hand to deliver concrete exactly when you need it, day or night. This ensures you can make the most of available daylight and complete your project on time and in the best conditions.
Expert guidance
Our knowledgeable team can advise on your winter concrete projects, including how to prepare your site and protect the mix to avoid frost damage while setting.
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We can supply quality-assured concrete day and night all year round, delivered and mixed on-site by our fleet of 4㎥ to 8㎥ volumetric concrete mixers.
Be it a small domestic job, large-scale construction work or concrete for a highways project, you can rely on us to deliver 24/7 from our Northumberland HQ, supplying the exact amount of concrete you need, as and when you need it.