What is it about weather that keeps a foundation from being poured?
Is it the fact that the water, essential for the chemical reaction for the concrete to set, will freeze if the temperature is too cold?
Should I really complain knowing that there is a blizzard in Cleveland, Ohio?
3 comments:
No. That's not it. The hydration reaction between the cement in the concrete and water is exothermic, so it won't freeze, but it's not ideal conditions for the reaction to occur if it's cold. Oh, wait, you were just joking and didn't want to know. Dang! Such a geek!
No, really- we want to know... 'Ideal conditions' is not descriptive enough. You can't pass with that answer. Jason can't remember what professor Mason taught you guys, if anything. I remember from Matsci A101 that the dulcimer sounded pretty but that's about it.
Lots of good info here: http://www.askthebuilder.com/104_Cold_Weather_Concrete_Installation_comments.shtml
But generally, the exothermic reaction (if insulated) will keep the reaction going but it needs a certain amount of heat to start it. In cold weather, there's just not enough heat to get the ball rolling. If you start with warm water and have insulated forms (usually styrofoam), it is better than using icy water and exposing it to cold air.
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