The problem is not preventing concrete from freezing. The problem is concrete quits hardening when the temperature drops below 50 degees F. Concrete produces heat with the heat of hydration and will aid in the hardening process. Cold weather concreting methods should be used and consist of insulating the concrete and/or providing heaters. Monitoring the temperature with thermometers is required. Some people add calcium chloride to increase the heat of hydration. Calcium chlodride can cause some reinforcing steel to crorrode.

Raul Jimenez
Senior Project Manager