Illinois Sure is Warm: Will Hot Temperatures Affect the Concrete Installation for Your Home?

Concrete is a material commonly used in residential areas. From the foundation of a home to patios and sidewalks, concrete is used in a number of ways. Laying concrete is best left to the professionals as they know how to use the material properly. Temperature, as well as the consistency of the concrete, is important when starting a new project. In the state of Illinois, it can be quite warm with temperatures reaching the 100s during the summer months. Will the high-temperature effect concrete projects?

Heat is Harmful

High heat can be harmful to a new concrete project installation. Whether you are planning a new driveway or sidewalk for the home, the temperature at the time must be considered. Problems can occur during the preparation of the concrete as well as the placement and curing of the material. High temperatures can cause rapid hydration of the material as well as an increase in the evaporation of mixing water. Large volume changes and more water needed can result in cracks in the concrete. Other factors can also contribute to issues including rapid hardening of the material and need to work with larger batches of concrete.

Problems with Heat

When the temperature outdoors is extremely high, it can cause several issues when laying concrete. A higher temperature of fresh concrete can result in rapid hydration. This leads to accelerated setting and reduces the amount of handling time you have with the concrete for the project. Strength is also reduced when the concrete is mixed, placed and cured at a higher temperature. The strength of the material will deteriorate over time which can lead to problems in the future.

With rapid evaporation issues due to heat, the concrete can shrink and crack during the cooling process. With the heat, it can be difficult to retain a uniform temperature during the curing period which can lead to hydration issues.
Hot temperatures lead to a hot concrete mix. This creates less air in the material which can lead to workability control. It makes the concrete harder to pour and spread which can mess up the project entirely.

Avoiding Temperature Issues

Those who are experts in concrete know how to avoid temperature issues. It is recommended that the ingredients of concrete are controlled so the temperature of the concrete as it is produced is lower. Mixing water is the best way to control the temperature of the material. Chilled water or flaked ice can assist in the mixing process to help reduce the temperature of the concrete.

Overall, when temperatures are high, you should work with a professional concrete company to complete any project. Working with professionals will ensure the job is done right the first time and you are better able to enjoy a completed project that will not see cracking or other issues in the future. Be sure to speak with the company about your temperature concerns and see how they handle high heat.