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Too cold for concrete?

by kevin espetveidt

Q. When is it too cold to pour concrete?

A. There is no cut and dry answer to this question. There are many factors to consider. Is the concrete going to be covered and insulated when it's finished? Will it be sealed? Will the concrete have freeze resistant additives? What will the overnight temperature and temperatures for the few days following be? Is the subgrade frozen?

Typically, I won't pour regular concrete if the temperature is expected to drop below 28 degrees the next few days and nights. With freeze resistant concrete, I can pour if the temperature is 20 degrees and rising. The best thing to do if you have any questions is call a local ready mix company before you pour the concrete and ask their advice.