Curing concrete in hot weather, like we have in the Sunshine State, takes a seasoned professional.
Florida sees its share of hot weather and then some, and this can be an issue at times in curing concrete. While the layperson may think that once concrete is poured all it has to do is dry, the opposite is true when trying to cure concrete in hot weather. At Tucker Paving, installing asphalt and concrete paving, curbs, sidewalks, slabs, and tie-beams is a large part of what we do. Here’s how the experts handle the ins and outs of curing concrete in hot weather.
Curing Concrete in Hot Weather
The issue with curing concrete in hot weather is that the cement in the concrete needs to stay hydrated in order cure correctly. This creates the strength that most concrete applications require. Without proper curing, concrete will be weakened to the point of being soft; it can even be chalky in some instances, and the upper levels of the concrete will erode or break off from the form much more quickly. For projects sensitive to cost and longevity, improperly cured concrete is undesirable.
Most important factors for curing concrete in hot weather:
- Temperature
- Relative humidity
- Wind speed
Basically, high temperatures, low humidity, and high wind speeds are the factors that will dry out concrete, causing it to cure improperly due to evaporation. While Florida’s high heat is usually paired with high humidity, it requires an expert eye to understand how the conditions will affect poured concrete.
There are many options when it comes to ensuring that concrete stays wet to achieve optimal curing and a quality end product that will last a long time.
Techniques that stop evaporation and restore water:
- Water curing. Water is sprayed, misted, or ponded onto the surface of the concrete to keep it wet and aid optimal curing.
- Curing blankets. Tarplike blankets keep moisture in, reduce overheating, and provide protection from the elements while concrete is curing.
- Plastic sheeting. This can be used similarly to curing blankets, but in a simpler manner.
- Membrane-forming sprayed-on curing compounds. These compounds create a membrane barrier over the concrete.
It takes a professional eye to know which is the best option for achieving optimal concrete curing in hot weather. At Tucker Paving, we have over 20 years in the paving business. Call us at 863-299-2262, or contact us using our online form for your next concrete project.