When you are considering the best time of year to install concrete, there are a few factors you should consider. Generally, if you’re living in a region with a mild climate, then you’re safe to install concrete pretty much any time of the year. However, if you reside in a region that faces extreme temperatures like hot or cold, then the spring or autumn season is the best time to install or pour fresh concrete.
In short, milder weather such as during spring or fall is considered to be the best time for concrete installation. This is because extreme temperatures like hot or cold can weaken the strength of your concrete and ultimately affect the durability and longevity of your installation.
Best Time For Concrete Installation
The best time for concrete installation in the US is usually around May or September. There are some conditions required for concrete to set properly. Very hot temperatures can affect the setting process, causing the surface of concrete to set before the rest of the installation. Extremely cold temperatures will cause the water particles within the concrete to freeze. As a result, the concrete can lose up to 50% of its strength.
Another thing to consider is precipitation. Wet concrete doesn’t set up well when compared to concrete that sets up on a sunny day.
Because of the aforementioned factors, the late spring and early fall are usually the best times for concrete installation in the United States. During these times, the weather is partially dry and the temperature cools down at night time, while during the daytime, warmer temperatures allow concrete to set properly.
Can You Install Concrete In The Winter Or Summer Seasons?
It is possible to install concrete in the winter. During this season, the water particles inside concrete are likely to freeze, which weakens the strength of concrete. If the temperature is lower than 5 degrees and there is snowfall, then it’s too cold to pour concrete.
However if you absolutely have to install concrete during winter, then make sure it is protected and safe. Cement contractors use tools like warm blankets, temporary covers, and space heaters in order to install concrete in cold weather. Because of the need for all these tools, many contractors remain closed during winter.
On the other hand, hot and dry weather can also have negative effects on your concrete installation. Water is the most important thing for concrete. During the summer season, higher temperatures will cause the water within the concrete mix to evaporate, which ultimately weakens the overall strength.
During summer, concrete contractors have several ways to make sure that concrete sets up properly. For example, the workers mix up concrete with cold water to keep the concrete mixture cooler for a long time. This requires some extra effort, but it can be done to improve the integrity of the new installation.
If you must pour concrete during the hot summer here are a few guidlines.
- Avoid installation at peak times normally from 9 am to 3 pm.
- Make sure that concrete is covered with a plastic sheet. This will help to reduce water loss.
- Make sure you have professional concrete contractors to help you with the pour of concrete.