If you’re waiting for warmer weather before tackling your concrete repair work, it might be worth checking with a local construction company as to whether that’s a sensible idea or not. While you might automatically think that a sultry summer’s day would be ideal for repairing concrete that’s showing signs of wear, humid and hot weather conditions can actually stop the concrete from setting properly, while colder temperatures can easily cause the formation of cracks.
Ultimately, concrete should never be poured in weather conditions that are extreme, and for more guidance, check out the information below:
What is the ideal temperature for repairing concrete?
While you may never find the absolutely ideal temperature for making repairs to concrete, whether it be your patio or your walkway, there is a sweet spot that exists when the temperature rises to more than 10 °C, and less than 24 °C. Such temperatures are often typical of summer to early fall months, whereas July and August tend to see temperatures that are much higher; it’s best to avoid doing any concrete work during these periods.
What impact does temperature have on concrete?
Cold weather can make the setting of concrete much slower, which in turn, limits its strength, and when temperatures drop below freezing, cracks can occur in newly laid concrete as the water freezes and expands.
During hot temperatures, concrete sets faster on the surface that it does underneath, which stops it from setting properly and being strong enough throughout the entire curing process, which can take several days. Not only that, but the need to use more water in the concrete mix due to humidity, can end up making the material a lot weaker.
While construction professionals and masonry contractors will be able to repair concrete in almost all weathers, even for them, some temperatures are simply not conducive to effective concrete work.
What impact does the weather have on concrete?
As well as the temperature, current weather conditions can also play a significant role in the success of concrete repairs. At least 2 days of dry weather is needed for concrete to properly set, and just one rainy or snowy day can cause a setback to proceedings and have a negative impact on the concrete’s strength overall. As such, try to schedule concrete repairs for months when less rain or snow is predicted.
Can wind have an impact on concrete?
You may be surprised to know that high winds can cause the water used in the cement mix being poured, to evaporate at a much higher speed than is desirable, which results in cracks and shrinkage.
What are the best months for carrying out concrete work?
If your concrete is badly damaged and in desperate need of repair, you should call upon masonry services as soon as possible, whatever the month and whatever the weather, as if left for too long untreated, the problem could become much worse.
However, if your concrete needs minor repairs, or you’re planning to do a little concrete DIY work yourself, it’s usually worth waiting for months like June, September and the first half of October. Typically mild and dry (although it depends on where you live, naturally), these are prime months for pouring concrete and making masonry repairs.
Are there any issues with concrete that should be repaired urgently?
Yes! The issues listed below are all serious, and all warrant swift action from a professional:
- Damage caused by water in the basement
- Concrete that has cracks and fractures
- Concrete that’s crumbling and flaking
- Formation of gaps
- Floors that are sagging
- Ceilings that are warped
Some concrete repairs simply won’t wait, and if you’re unsure as to whether now is the right time to be making those repairs, consult with a local construction company or masonry contractor for guidance.