Can Concrete Be Poured in the Rain?
To ensure concrete cures properly, it’s advisable to wait for the perfect conditions before pouring it – namely, a mild, dry day. However, tight construction timelines can often make this impossible and you might be left at the mercy of the unpredictable British weather.
So can you pour concrete in the rain? The team here at The Thames Concrete is here to explain the process.
Can you pour concrete in the rain?
Yes, concrete can be poured in the rain. However, this requires proper planning as there are a range of precautions you’ll need to take to make sure it pours correctly; we’ve listed these in more detail below. If possible, it’s best to wait for optimal concrete pouring conditions – ideally, a mild day with an air temperature of between 10°C and 21°C and no wind or rain – to ensure the best results.
Understanding the effects of rain on concrete
Concrete is made up of three key ingredients: cement, water and aggregates. While you might think that a bit of rain won’t be a problem, the ratio of these three materials has been carefully calculated and excess water can end up weakening the concrete. This would result in a mix that is less strong and durable, which can impact the structural integrity of the
If heavy rain falls on newly poured concrete, it can result in a surface that is bumpy and uneven. Rainwater can also contain many pollutants, all of which could end up infiltrating the final concrete mix.
There are a number of signs you should keep an eye out for if you’re worried your concrete has been damaged by rain, including:
– Visible cracks
– A dusty, powdery surface
– Scaling
– Discolouration
– Uneven, bumpy finish
Tips for pouring concrete in the rain
In an ideal world, you’d wait for the perfect conditions before pouring your concrete, but what if it’s raining and you’re working to an urgent deadline?
To prevent the risk of weakened concrete, you should always take the following precautions for pouring concrete in the rain:
Plan ahead: If rain is expected, it may be best to delay the pour to another day if possible. If not, be sure to have waterproof materials close to hand to keep the site dry.
Keep checking the weather forecast: The UK is prone to bursts of sunshine and showers, so you should closely monitor the weather forecast. If it’s a rainy day, there may be a brief dry spell that offers the chance to pour the concrete. Alternatively, if it’s a sunny day, then you can ensure you’re not caught out by any unexpected showers.
Get to know your site: Assess the conditions at the pour site; is the surface completely dry or are there any damp spots or water-filled cavities that might affect the mix? You should also be aware of any nearby gutters or downspouts and ensure these are directed away from the pour site.
Adjust the mix: In especially wet conditions, it may be necessary to alter the mix ratio to prevent it from being diluted. You may also want to consider adding accelerators or waterproof admixtures to the mix.
Protect the surface: To keep freshly laid concrete dry, you’ll want to erect a temporary shelter or cover it with some tarpaulin sheets.
If you need a reliable concrete supplier in West London, Middlesex, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire or beyond, look no further than The Thames Concrete. With years of experience to our name, our knowledgeable team is trained to pour concrete in even the most challenging conditions to ensure exceptional results every time.
To find out more or to get a free quote, get in touch with our friendly experts today.
