Mitigating the Effects of Hot Weather on Concrete: Products to Cure Cement in High Temperatures
The weather is starting to heat up, which means that construction season is in full swing! For contractors working with concrete, this can mean curing problems. Any professional who has placed and finished concrete understands that the prevailing environmental conditions can be a real problem! High temperatures, direct sunlight, and humidity can all accelerate the curing process to the point where the concrete never really sets properly. This can lead to decreased strength and durability, so it’s important to take the necessary steps to protect your investment. However, with so many products on the market these days, it can be hard to decide which high-quality curing compounds are best for your needs. At Wilson Concrete, we’re here to help you every step of the way. We offer top quality products and industry insider knowledge to ensure that your project is a success! In this blog post, we’ll discuss some products that can help mitigate the effects of hot weather on concrete curing.
When it comes to hot weather and working with concrete, proper planning and execution is vital. By being aware of the potential problems that can occur and taking steps to prevent them, it is possible to produce high quality concrete even in difficult conditions! The key to a quality product is to control the concrete temperature. The ideal range is between 60 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is above 77 degrees, special cooling measures must be taken. This might include using an evaporation retarder, to slow down the evaporation process. Another option is to cover the concrete with burlap to help keep the moisture in and prevent it from evaporating. Lastly, to ensure a successful completion of the project, it is important to seal the concrete with top-of-the-line products that can withstand wear and tear for years to come. But with so many options on the market, which products are best to use?
Evaporation Retarders
Good hot weather concreting practices typically include the use of evaporation retarders to avoid moisture loss prior to finishing. We understand how important it is to increase the workable life of concrete, because it gives you more flexibility in planning and scheduling your pour. For this reason, products such as Sikatard are vital for contractors who want to ensure their projects are up to code and meet industry standards. This product works by slowing the evaporation of water from the concrete. This allows the hydration process to continue uninterrupted, resulting in a stronger and more durable finished product. When time and money are essential to the success of a project, this product can be a real lifesaver when trying to get a job done in the heat!
Burlap
There are several preventative measures you can take to ensure your concrete sets properly during hot weather. One such measure is to cover the concrete with burlap. This provides a barrier between the concrete and the hot sun, helping to keep the concrete cooler which In turn, helps to prevent cracks and other damage caused by extreme heat. When choosing a material to use for protection, it is important to consider the quality of the product. Sika Ultra Cure NCF Blankets are a high quality option for protecting concrete from the heat, and moisture evaporation. These blankets not only provide protection from UV rays, but they also reduce heat absorption by up to 80%. This makes them an ideal choice for those looking for ways to extend the life of their concrete! In addition, they can hold moisture for up to 8 days, you can set it and forget it, which means you are getting a better curing for your concrete than many other products on the market.
Sealers
Lastly, in order to ensure a successful completion of your project, it is important to use a proper concrete sealer. A top quality concrete sealer will provide a barrier against the hot weather and protect your investment. This is especially true for contractors who want to offer versatility without trading in quality. Euclid Super Diamond Clear, does just that! With its easy to use application, it’s perfect for any project and will cure and seal. This means being able to get a product that is clear, high gloss, non-yellowing, acrylic emulsion cure and seal that will keep your concrete looking new! It’s applied to new concrete substrates after the final finishing operations are completed and forms a film that retains water, allowing normal hydration. This film remains as a protective surface sealing treatment that greatly reduces dusting and increases stain resistance of the cured concrete. Plus, it’s an economical cure and seal that meets the moisture!
Retarders
Top Stop Horizontal Surfer Retarder is a spray applied water soluble surface retarded that is designed to slow the set of surface mortar of concrete to produce and expose the aggregate finish. It delays the set of cement at the top surface while the underlying concrete sets normally. It is economical and easy to use as well as produces beautiful aggregate concrete flat work with consistent results. Give yourself more time to work with your surface no matter what the temperature, you can slow the effects of curing with this incredible product, an affordable option that will help you achieve the look you are aiming for!
So, no matter what solution you choose, it’s important to take steps to protect your concrete in hot weather. By taking the time to prepare, you can help ensure that your concrete will cure properly and be strong and durable for years to come. If you are working with concrete in hot weather, it is important to use one or more of these products to mitigate the effects of the heat. By doing so, you can ensure that your concrete will cure properly and be strong and durable so that your concrete project will be successful! We, at Wilson Concrete are a leading provider of high quality concrete products. We offer a wide variety of options to choose from, so you can find the perfect product for your needs! Our team of experts are always available to answer any questions you may have and help you select the right product for your project. Beat the heat and contact us today!