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As summer temperatures climb, so do the risks associated with placing and curing concrete in hot weather conditions. At PUDLO, we understand that delivering durable, high-performance concrete starts well before the first pour—and extreme weather adds another layer of complexity.
Why Hot Weather Matters
Hot weather concreting isn’t just about comfort on site. Elevated temperatures, low humidity, direct sunlight, and drying winds can accelerate the loss of moisture from fresh concrete. This can result in:
- Reduced workability
- Increased risk of plastic shrinkage cracking
- Higher rates of evaporation before proper curing
- Long-term strength and durability issues
That’s why, when the heat is on, it’s essential to plan and protect your pour.
Best Practice Tips for Hot Weather Concreting
Here are some practical measures to help ensure performance isn’t compromised:
1. Plan your pour timing
Schedule pours for early morning or later in the evening to avoid the peak heat of the day. This can significantly reduce surface temperature and evaporation risk.
2. Keep materials cool
Store aggregates and water in shaded areas if possible. Even small reductions in mix temperature can have a noticeable effect on workability and setting time.
3. Use the right mix design
Admixtures can help control setting time, improve workability, and reduce water demand. Speak with your concrete supplier to adjust the mix for hot conditions if needed.
4. Limit evaporation
Minimise delay between placement and finishing. Avoid overworking the surface, as this can bring excess water to the top and weaken the finish.
5. Prioritise curing
Start curing immediately once the surface is ready. Whether you're using curing compounds, wet coverings, or membranes, this step is critical to avoid early drying and shrinkage cracks.
6. Communication is key
Make sure the entire team—from supplier to on-site crew—is aware of the risks and the agreed procedures. Hot weather concreting needs collaboration, not compromise.
Delivering Confidence, Whatever the Weather
At PUDLO, we’re here to support quality construction—whether you’re dealing with pouring in winter, navigating challenging detailing, or adapting to a heatwave. It’s all part of our commitment to protecting your project from the ground up.
Need waterproofing advice for hot weather concreting or summer installations? Get in touch—we're always happy to help.