With winter weather in full effect, many people may be wondering if they can still pour a concrete slab for their post frame building? In most cases, the answer is yes, but there are some limitations when it comes to pouring concrete in the winter. Some people opt to pour concrete till spring for safety’s sake, but there are ways to lay concrete in colder temperatures.
Concrete experts will tell you that, although it’s more difficult to work with in cold temperatures than hot temperatures, it is possible to pour and set concrete slabs even during winter months. The key to successful installation lies within understanding how temperature affects the process and taking proactive steps to reduce risks associated with it before, during and after installation.
One of the most important things to consider when pouring cement during colder weather conditions is temperature. Concrete needs time to cure properly; during warmer weather the curing process happens much faster than in colder. If your local climate drops below 32°F (0°C), then it’s better not to attempt pouring a concrete slab as freezing temperatures can cause cracks or other damages due to sudden changes in temperature. That being said, in our local build area of Indiana/Southern Michigan, we typically see above freezing days through the end of the year and even sometimes in January! Typically by February in our build area, it is better to wait for the break in weather towards the end of March to make sure freezing temps aren’t a problem.
In addition, extra measures should also be taken when pouring cement during winter months such as using special concrete blankets for insulation, adding accelerants for quicker curing (which can come at an additional cost) and having heaters available to raise the floor curing temp.
The benefit of a post frame building, is that you can build all the walls and roof prior to pouring the floor, so it is easier to control the weather and temperature than pouring a slab exposed to all the elements!
Overall, it’s safe – but not necessarily easy – to pour a concrete slab during the winter months. You just have to make sure you have at least enough time for the concrete to set prior to sub 32 degree weather setting in again. As long as all necessary precautions are taken beforehand, the slab will cure correctly and efficiently without any hiccups!
Originally posted January 2023