Despite the fact that concrete driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, and patios abound throughout all parts of the country, it is a fact that cold temperatures have the ability to negatively impact concrete.

It does not matter if you already have a concrete structure in place or if you are considering creating a concrete structure, it is imperative that you understand the impact of the cooler outdoor temperatures on the material that you have previously laid or are considering utilizing for the project.

The only exception to this is if you get your concrete work done by a professional, as this drastically reduces the risk for damage when exposed to the cold.

New Concrete

Are you considering a new project that requires laying concrete in new temperatures? If you answered “yes”, it is important to understand that the material has to have the ability to acquire strength. If not poured at least at 500 PSI, the material will potentially freeze.

If it freezes, it increases the possibility that thermal cracking will happen. It takes anywhere from two to four weeks for the concrete to properly set.

If the temperature is over 50 degrees, it will gain the strength required for the proper strength to be reached. If the temperature is lower, the material will not gain the proper amount of strength.

Previously-Poured Concrete

If you have concrete that has been previously poured, it is likely that it has the necessary strength, but it could still incur damage. This stems from exposure to moisture and salt.

Concrete is a material that is considered to be “permeable”. This means that certain substances – like gas and liquids – have the capability of passing through it.

During the winter months, there are higher levels of moisture. When water hits the concrete, it will start to freeze. This results in high levels of stress.

As a result, the chemical bonds within the material become stressed and it could result in the development of damage.

In addition to the exposure to moisture and the freezing process, concrete is often exposed to a variety of chemicals and substances that are known to de-ice. A prime example includes salt.

When the water is taken from its frozen state to a liquid state from de-icing substances, the water will gather within the pores of the concrete. The bonds that are designed to hold the concrete in place are then broken down.

Deterioration of the material will start to occur at a molecular-based level. In turn, this could result in cracks and other types of damage to the concrete.

Get Help Today

Do you need concrete poured in the cold weather months? Are you starting to notice that the cold weather is negatively impacting your concrete? If you answered “yes” to either one of these questions, we can help you today.

Regardless of the weather, we can protect your concrete with concrete coatings in Augusta. All it takes is a little time, a little effort on our part, and you can enjoy highly durable concrete – all year long!

Simply contact us today for more information by calling: 706-249-4131