Summer almost always arrives smoothly. The effects of the long and harsh winter season are sealed off by wet spring. Soon, the temperature will increase and those long and hot summer days will come. When the hot climate arrives, things come to a different turn.
It’s true that all environmental variables affect concreting projects. So, if the temperature is elevated or ambient, moisture and humidity are low, the wind is high and strong, the manner in which you apply concrete is affected. If you need more information about stamped concrete, please visit www.stampedconcretehouston.net.
Tips When Installing Decorative or Stamped Concrete
Anyone installing stamped or decorative concrete under these conditions should be conscious of the environment and adjust their practices as necessary. There are certain factors that are affected when stamped or decorative concrete is installed during the hot summer days. These are:
- Color
The color of concrete installed during summer is usually dark and may contain moisture. Do note that dark colors absorb heat and light colors reflect them. Working on dark areas and warm environments may change the way you see the concrete. These conditions also affect how the concrete flows and how fast it dries. This is particularly accurate if the surface is sealed or stained under direct sunlight.
- Surface Evaporation Control
This technique is a way of applying a water-based chemical to the plastic concrete surfaces by spraying. Doing so allows stops the wind and sun from dehydrating the concrete. It is essential to remember that when troweling or floating concrete hot weather, the use of these products will come handy. Always consult the concrete application manual or guidelines as set by the supplier before adding anything.
- Shadow management
Shadow management is the term used when regulating where one’s shadow falls when sitting or standing on the pavement. The same concept applies when products that are heat-sensitive, such as concrete, are installed during the hot weather. If one part of the pavement is completely under the sun and under a shadow, then this will have a dramatic effect on the surface temperature and drying time.
- Drying time
Understanding the composition of the concrete makes it easier for you to calculate the drying required before you can apply stains, sealers, or tints. Heat is the catalyst of all these. The speed of the concrete’s reaction to the environment increases as the temperature rises. This suggests a rise in the rate of evaporation and a decline in pot life. Drying time, setting time, and open time are all affected as well.
- Storage
The way you store concrete in hot weather should be considered as well. It is often ignored where and how concrete is kept. Remember that the reaction is doubled for every 18 degrees Fahrenheit rise in temperature.
- Concrete Mix
It is important to note that not all concrete mixes are not for use in all settings and environments. For example, acetone acts like a scavenger of moisture. It picks up water and holds it. The use of a high-acetone sealer in settings where the humidity is high may contribute to hazing and blushing.
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