Readymix Concrete/Aggregates/Concrete Blocks/Mortar/Admixtures

Placing and finishing

If during placing and finishing concrete is not protected from rain and the water is not allowed to evaporate from the slab surface; and multiple passes of floats and trowels used to finish the surface are made with surface moisture in place; the energy supplied by the finishing operations mixes the excess water into the slab surface creating a high w/c ratio in the near surface of the concrete reducing its strength and therefore its durability.

Effect of rain on concrete surfaces

Rainfall during placement of concrete can present challenges in achieving a quality concrete. Potential outcomes range from no damage to a weakened nondurable surface, which may be visible immediately or may only become apparent with time.

After finishing, if the immature concrete surfaces have not been protected from rain some of the cement paste may be washed out of the concrete, leaving a weakened surface and the possibility of related problems in the future. This may include dusting of the surface; an unsealed surface that will allow far more water to be absorbed. Damage to the concrete surface may be readily apparent, however, if the surface strength is only slightly affected, the long term durability of the concrete may be reduced as indicated by surface deterioration in the form of crazing, scaling or erosion and a reduced ability to resist cracking due to freeze-thaw cycles. The most common consequence is normally surface scaling, resulting in a flaky, layered concrete surface, which may not become visible until the slab has being trafficked when the scale breaks or crumbles away Concrete strength and durability below the surface are not normally affected.

Protecting concrete
Concrete can be poured while it is raining and with proper timing and process, the durability of the concrete is not affected. In very heavy prolonged rain it is advisable to hold off pouring concrete. Water in foundation trenches, forms or on slabs must be removed prior to commencing the pour. Where heavy showers are forecast a plan should be in place of where the concrete pour can be broken and poured concrete should be protected as quickly as possible to prevent damage to the surface. Where there is a risk of light intermittent showers, concrete can be protected for short periods with sheets of polythene in much the same manner as curing, Once concrete has been finished and sufficiently hardened, keeping water on it during the hydration period is beneficial. However, if ponding occurs, on the surface of the concrete, it may result in some discoloration. Beyond that, its strength and durability should not be adversely affected by the presence of excess water.

Further advice and information is available from our technical team by calling 01 865 8700 (ROI) or 02890 616611 (NI) or emailing ireland.info@cemex.com

Disclaimer: This is intended as general advice only and does not absolve the end user from following best practice or any other instructions or guidelines as set down in specifications or directed by the Specifier/Engineer.

Call 01 865 8700 (ROI) 02890 616611(NI) or email ireland.info@cemex.com

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