Avoid These 3 Mistakes When Pouring Concrete during Winter Months

If you are considering pouring a concrete pad in your yard, you may think that you need to wait until summer to do so. However, pouring concrete in the winter can be done; it just requires a bit more care. Here are some errors to avoid making when you pour concrete pads in the colder months so that you can pour a pad that is crack free and strong.

Using the Wrong Type of Concrete

Many people that pour concrete in the winter don't consider whether the concrete they choose will create problems for their winter project. It is important to start with the right type of concrete so that it sets properly and stands up to weathering over time. The right kind of concrete can help cut down on drying time and can prevent bleeding. Ready-mix concrete, with a low ratio of water to concrete, for example, can be especially helpful when pouring concrete during months when the temperature drops really low. 

Not Warming Up the Ground

Pouring ready-mix concrete on frozen soil may seem harmless, but it can cause a number of problems. The ground can cause concrete to freeze along the bottom, which can create pockets of air that increase tension, leading eventually to cracks when pressure is put on the concrete. Not only that, but you may experience cracks in the concrete when the ground underneath thaws out.

To warm the ground properly before you start pouring concrete, use curing blankets or tarps across the entire area where you plan to pour. Be sure to use a soil thermometer in various parts of your work area to accurately determine whether the temperature of the ground is above freezing before you go further with your project.

Not Covering the Poured Concrete

After you've finished pouring the concrete, you need to make sure it doesn't freeze. To avoid this, cover your pad with multiple tarps. Insulating blankets would also be acceptable. You can even cover your pad with an electric curing blanket made specifically for this purpose. For best results, cover the concrete pad for a few days until the concrete has had time to dry.

Now that you know some of the mistakes you should stay away from, use the information in this article to help you take the right actions instead. If you run into problems, consult a professional concrete contractor like Robar Enterprises Inc who can help ensure that your concrete pad is completed successfully.

Share