Tips for laying concrete mixes in hot weather

Pouring concrete on a hot day? High temperatures can sabotage your mix before it even sets. Whether you’re working on concrete footings, driveways, or floors, here’s how to pour successfully when the heat is on.

Why Hot Weather Is a Problem for Concrete

Concrete cures through hydration—absorbing water to form strong crystals. When it’s too hot, water evaporates too fast, speeding up the cure and weakening the bond. The result? A brittle surface, more cracks, and durability issues.

If you want to go deeper into the curing process, check out our guide to curing concrete for expert techniques and timelines.

Best Practices for Pouring Concrete in Hot Weather

• Know the Ideal Pouring Temperature: Concrete pours best between 10°C and 25°C. Above 30°C, you'll need to take precautions like using admixtures or shaded covers. Learn more about the best time of year to lay concrete.
• Avoid Peak Heat Hours: Plan your pour in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid temperature extremes.
• Prep the Site Thoroughly: Good prep ensures a smooth pour. Read our tips for preparing your site for concrete delivery.
• Keep Tools and Equipment Cool: Shade metal items like chutes and wheelbarrows to prevent them from increasing the surface temperature of the mix.
• Use the Right Concrete Mix: Choose a set-retarding mix or a professionally batched ready mix concrete. Learn more about the benefits of ready mix concrete.
• Create Shade Over the Pour: Use tarps or shade cloth to slow evaporation. This is especially useful if you're pouring concrete in the rain.
• Control Wind and Humidity: Use windbreaks or evaporative retarders to reduce rapid moisture loss.
• Use Wet Curing Methods: Protect the surface with water misting or damp coverings for at least 48 hours. Also, refer to our concrete finishing guide.
• Work Quickly and With Enough Help: Have a full team ready to avoid delays in placing the concrete.
• Use a Concrete Pump If Needed: Speed matters in the heat. A concrete pump can help you lay the mix faster and more precisely.

How Durable Is Concrete Once Cured?

While asphalt begins to soften at 50°C, properly cured concrete is heat-resistant up to 400°C. For a full comparison, check out our guide to Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveways.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I pour concrete at 35°C?
Yes, but you'll need the right mix and protective measures. Learn more in our article on how to pour concrete in hot weather.

How long does concrete take to cure in hot weather?
Surface curing may begin quickly, but hydration continues over 7–28 days. Learn more in our concrete curing guide.

What admixtures help with hot weather?
Set retarders and water reducers. Learn the difference between ready mix concrete and DIY mixes.

Is wind as bad as heat for curing?
Yes. Wind increases surface evaporation. Avoid these issues by following our guide on common concrete mistakes.

Can I lay concrete blocks in the heat?
If you're choosing between bricks and concrete blocks, the latter are more heat-resistant but still need proper hydration during placement.

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We deliver professional-grade concrete mixes designed to perform in hot conditions. Don’t hesitate to contact our team of concreting experts to discuss your project or schedule a ready mix concrete delivery. Call 0117 958 2090 to speak with an expert.