If you have been looking to build a custom house, remodel your property, or invest in commercial premises for your newly founded business, you are not the only one. As the pandemic shifted our priorities, in 2021, millions of people have decided to start their own company and house renovation projects have increased by 58%.
As the economy bounces back, 2022 might be the best time to get started on your project. But no matter whether you are looking to build a custom home or just replace the concrete on your driveway - timings matter when starting a concrete paving project.
In this guide by the AJAX Paving Company, you will find all you need to know about the best time of the year for your concrete paving project.
When Does the Concrete Paving Season End?
The best season for concrete paving projects changes depending on your climate zone. However, generally, the concrete paving season ends at the end of Fall, when the ground starts to freeze. In fact, during the winter months, ice, cold temperatures, and snowfall cause the ground to stiffen. In turn, this makes it impossible for concrete paving experts to work with this material and achieve high-quality results. This material limitation is because, in low temperatures, the concrete will freeze before it reaches 500 psi of strength - or 50% of the ultimate strength. This affects the matrix and prevents the concrete from gaining strength. If temperatures fall below 50°F, the concrete won’t gain strength at all!
When this happens, your new pavement won’t be able to support additional construction, wear, and tear, or harsh weather conditions. In turn, this can considerably shorten the lifespan of your newly-built concrete construction.
Why Is Concrete Paving a Seasonal Task?
When starting your concrete paving projects, your contractor will advise waiting for the optimal base and air conditions. As we have seen above, cold temperatures can cause the concrete to set too quickly, preventing it from achieving the necessary density. In turn, this significantly compromises the integrity of your newly-built structure.
Your contractor will assess the following conditions before getting started on any concrete paving project:
- Base temperature
- Ambient temperature
- Wind velocity
- Humidity levels
What Is the Best Time of the Year for Concrete Paving?
As seen above, the concrete paving season ends when the ground starts to freeze at the end of Fall. So, what is the best season of the year to complete your concrete paving project? The cool and moderate months of the year are best for concrete pouring. Spring and early summer can make for a good option but Fall is deemed to be the best season. This is because variables such as base, ambient, and air temperature are stable during this season.
Additionally, during Fall, the days are moderately warm, the nights cooler, and the levels of humidity in the air are lower than in summer. Make sure to plan ahead and complete your project before the ground starts to freeze!
Ideal Weather Conditions for Concrete Paving
Sometimes, you might not be able to plan for, start, and complete your entire concrete paving project during fall. Luckily, each year is different, and you might have extra time to complete your project. Just make sure that the weather provides these conditions:
- Ambient temperatures should be between 40F and 90F
- Dry weather
- Low humidity levels
- Low wind velocity
What To Do if You Can’t Complete Your Concrete Paving Projects
If you have not been able to complete your project, you should not think twice about contacting the experts at the AJAX Paving Company! Cold weather concrete replacement and paving projects are possible, but they require specialized tools, processes, and knowledge to keep the concrete warm during the setting phase.