
The use of concrete, or at least iterations in building technology, can be traced back to the ancient Egyptians. Several modifications later, the concrete used is composed of water, cement, and fine and coarse aggregate.
Research has determined that weather altered this core construction component despite its time-tested reliability.
While the effects of typical weather conditions are negligible, extreme weather significantly impacts the performance of concrete, as detailed below:
It Impacts on the Concrete’s Tensile and Compressive Strengths
Concrete is mainly relied upon due to its relatively high compressive and tensile strength, mainly when used with other complementary materials like steel.
However, concrete’s compressive and tensile strength depends on true artistry and optimum concrete curing. These two main factors can be altered by extreme weather, so concrete’s tensile and compressive force may be compromised.
If this is not rectified early enough, the durability of concrete structures cannot be guaranteed.
It Affects the Workability of Concrete
Research indicates that concrete may experience a fast or slow setting with too high or low temperatures.
It is set when referring to concrete, which means how the concrete solidifies as being worked on or cast.
Too fast or too slow setting due to extreme weather conditions hinders how those with jobs in construction can work with concrete.
It Affects the Curing of Concrete
Whenever concrete is used in construction, it has to undergo curing. Curing is when the concrete hardens and creates a rigid linkage with other construction components.
Anyone with a job in construction can attest that achieving the best results with concrete requires: an optimum temperature that doesn’t cause too much evaporation, the right amount of moisture, and adequate time for curing.
If these conditions are not met, the quality of the structure the concrete was used to build cannot be guaranteed.
Extreme weather conditions like too much wind, moisture in the air, and even high or low temperatures affect the optimum curing of concrete.
Final Thoughts
Concrete is undoubtedly one of the best construction materials in use today. However, to get the best results, you should ensure you use the best-trained construction workers, the best concrete formulation, and the best curing procedure.
While there isn’t a way to change the weather, Kilgore Companies has a workaround to deal with this issue. We only use the industry-approved techniques and materials and insist on having the best-trained construction workers on our team.
Are you looking for jobs in construction? We might have some space for you on our team. Click here to find out about vacancies in our group.