VIEWPOINT WINTER IS COMING
Garry Gregory Packed Products Director for Tarmac Cement talks about what merchants need to remind their customers about now the mercury is plummeting.
THE COLD CAN create a host of issues for merchants’ customers but, with the right planning, these need not disrupt their project. Good organisation can help them avoid a multitude of problems from frost damaged equipment to cracked concrete and wasted product – and some good advice for them can do your reputation wonders.
Cement in chilly conditions
Temperature plays a large role in the usability and strength of concrete. For instance, if newly placed concrete falls below 0ºC prior to developing enough strength, the water in the mix will freeze and expand. The result? Cracking, scaling and crumbling of the concrete.
Of course, the best advice to offer customers is to wait for temperatures above 5ºC before doing these jobs. However, this isn’t always an option so, if there is a risk of frost, they must protect the mortar with an insulation quilt sandwiched between two sheets of polythene sheeting. It’s important to keep the mix above 5ºC for 48 hours after the concrete has been placed to ensure adequate heat for normal cement hydration. Suggest that they check their equipment for frost and keep it well away from their project to avoid their hard work being ruined.
Trusted tools
We all know that a good, sturdy tool can make or break a project, so it is essential that your customers take good care of their tools during the winter.
To keep them in tip top condition, they should make sure they are cleaned, lubricated and sharpened regularly. This not only keeps the tools in perfect working order and saves buying new
equipment but also prevents the rather annoying job of chipping away at hardened dirt or mortar and removing rust come spring. When working during the winter, the quality of concrete matters more than ever. Make sure your customers go for a good quality product and one that is air entrained, which will have far greater frost resistance. Additionally, packaging is important during the colder months. The cement can spoil quickly when left outside due to rainwater contamination and damage. To prevent this, suggest they choose a concrete that comes in a tub or tear and weather resistant packaging. This might seem simple but can save an awful
December 2021
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net
Harsh winds can cause dramatic temperature drops, as well
as premature drying of cement which can completely ruin a project.”
lot of cost and frustration down the line.
It’s elemental Cold weather itself is enough to hinder a project but winter brings with it a multitude of other challenges such as rain, wind and
snow so it’s crucial your customers factor these in when preparing to work in winter.
Harsh winds can cause dramatic temperature drops, as well as premature drying of cement which can completely ruin a project. Having windbreakers at the ready will provide the perfect remedy. Protection from wet weather is also essential. Mortar should be kept moist for 36 hours to allow it to fully cure.
However, too much moisture caused by a heavy downpour could weaken the surface and cause serious problems in the future. They can avoid this with a water-resistant tarp or plastic sheeting to slow the curing process and help form a strong bond. BMJ
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