When cement is mixed in an environment that gets cold temperatures, the mixture may not harden properly. To ensure reliable results during winter renovation projects, several things must be considered during the mixing and application phase.

Water to Cement Ratio

All of the cement components in concrete act like glue because they keep everything firmly molded together. If you mix too water with cement, the mixture will weaken. By using less water during the early phase, the concrete will be stronger once it hardens.

The Slump

When shopping for cement for a large renovation project, always select a brand that has a four-inch slump. The slump determines how stiff the cement will be once it dries. Cement products that have a lower number are preferred by general contracts because the stiffness level stays strong once the mixture cures and dries.

The Mix

If possible, invest in six bags of cement or a brand that has a 4,000 PSI mix. The strength of a mixture will suffer if there isn’t enough cement for every cubic yard. Other steps must be taken if the cement will be applied in an area that gets freezing temperatures. In this situation, you’ll need a product that can handle 4,000 pounds.

Air

Air bubbles can strengthen a cement mixture, which is why most contractors apply special chemicals while the main components are mixed. These chemicals are effective because they generate micro-air bubbles in the mixture. When the water freezes in fresh concrete on a cold day, the air spaces act like shock absorbers. However, to achieve the best results, you must use concrete that contains air. If you need help mixing chemicals in a concrete mixture, consider investing in a ribbon blender.

The Finishing 

After the cement mixed, rainwater shouldn’t seep into the solution because it can dilute the paste. This is why you should always review the weather forecast before mixing any cement on a cold day.

Overall, you can mix strong cement while the temperature is low in your neighborhood. If you need extremely strong cement, you must pour water over the mixture shortly before it dries. The extra water will help the cement successfully complete the hydration process.