It Rained the Day After I Poured My Concrete. Is that ok?

Why Does Bad Weather Impact Pouring Concrete

You always need good weather when pouring concrete. Rain has a big impact on fresh concrete. It harms its strength, durability, and overall quality. Understanding how these water conditions such as temperature, precipitation, and temperature affect the curing process will help you avoid these problems. It will also improve the likelihood that your concrete install will last a long time. By adhering to these steps and taking the right measures, you will lower the risks that come with bad weather conditions.

How Can We Proect Our Newly Poured Concrete From The Rain

Now that we just poured our concrete, what can we do? There are a few tips. First, you can cover the concrete. If you have tarps or plastic sheets, use them to cover the concrete. Make sure the covering is secure and extends over the edges to prevent water from getting in. Be sure to manage excess water. Keep an eye on the concrete surface for standing water. Use a squeegee or broom to move any excess water away from the concrete and towards drainage areas. This is an option for extremely large areas. If you have a large commercial concrete pad where covering the concrete doesn't make sense, squeegee and broom is likely more feasible.

How Does Rain Affect the Curing Process

Rain will weaken your concrete during the curing process. Too much water will disrupt hydration, which leads to cracks and other surface problems. You can avoid these issues by using proper curing techniques and protect the concrete from heavy rains. Watch the weather and use the right methods to cure your concrete. This will help your project and ensure it will stand the test of time.

What Factors Influence the Effects of Rain on Concrete

There are other factors to be aware of that will determine how rain affects your freshly poured concrete. First, the timing of the rain. Rain immediately after your concrete is poured can wash the cement right off the surface, leading to cracks and other defects. Next is the intensity and duration of the rain. Heavy rain erodes the surface. Light rain over a long period increases the water in the mix. This affects how well it cures. Temperature is also a factor. Cold temperatures mixed with rain will slow down the curing process, which will make the concrete weaker. Humidity levels are also an issue. A higher humidity mixed with rain will increase the time it takes for concrete to cure.

Understanding these factors will allow you to reduce the harmful effects weather will have on your freshly poured concrete. Contact us if you have any questions.