Tips for using concrete in cold weather

Concrete will behave differently depending on the season – and time of day – it’s poured in. Particular care needs to be taken in low-temperature conditions as cold can have an adverse impact on concrete strength.

Low temperatures can affect concrete behaviour in the following ways:

• Extend the time taken for bleedwater to evaporate
• Delay the time for concrete to gain strength
• Cause concrete cracking
• Put concrete at risk of freezing before it sets

This resource explains what steps should be taken to minimise the effects of low temperatures on concrete. In particular, it details what precautions must be taken when a sudden frost takes place or when the air temperature falls below 5°C.

It also outlines what needs to be done to increase the rate at which concrete gains strength.

Don’t put your next project at risk of poor-quality concrete pours, time delays or cost overruns. Find out exactly what needs to be done when laying concrete outside of optimal temperature conditions.

What does it include?

• Different procedures to be applied when pouring concrete
• How low temperatures can affect concrete behaviour
• How to minimise the impact of cold weather
• How to increase the rate at which concrete gains strength