We tend to understand concrete as being pretty durable, considering it’s the material of choice for most of our inner-city buildings. A hailstorm isn’t dealing any damage to a towering concrete skyscraper, let’s be honest. But surely concrete isn’t immune to weathering?
Concrete can last through plenty of downpours, but the true impact of the weather on concrete can be found through its preparation – before it’s solidified into the dense, impervious mass we know it as.
Wind
Wind is typically as effective against concrete as a gentle breeze would be at pushing us over. However, if you let that same breeze anywhere near your concrete whilst its setting, you’ll regret it.
If wind gets into contact with concrete whilst it’s setting, the moisture at the concrete’s surface can rapidly evaporate, which weakens the overall structure and can even increase the risk of cracking.
Rain
If retaining moisture is essential to a solid concrete mix, too much can be detrimental. Rain can wash away elements of the concrete mix, and can also cause surface damage.
Humidity
As any dad will tell you, it’s not the heat that gets you, it’s the humidity. Moisture in the air can be just as deadly to concrete as rainwater, massively influencing the curing time, and compromising the concrete’s strength. During a particularly steamy day, either check the humidity levels are safe, or just leave it for another time.
Countermeasures
Putting off the job is obviously the ideal move if you’re mixing your concrete under a sudden downpour, but preventative measures can help keep business moving regardless of the forecast. Hiring experienced professionals, such as the expert suppliers of concrete Stroud at monstermixconcrete.co.uk/concrete-stroud, can relieve you of all the responsibility.
Speaking of responsibility, always monitor weather forecasts when doing large projects, both beforehand and during the curing process.
We’ve already explained how harmful the weather can be to curing concrete, so what about using tarps or windbreaks? Once your concrete is cured, you can shed these coverings and laugh in the face of rain clouds once more.
