Concrete pour - temperature concerns

[Jonathan Mau]

Hi Guys:

I have all my forms and reinforcing materials in place for a garage floor and a shed foundation. Now I just need to find someone to do the place and finish. I am having trouble here. I can't see wanting to have a go at this myself for the $500 it would save, but if I can't find anyone to do it for me ...

Anyhow the temperatures around here these days are about 45 F daytime high and 25 night time low. This varies alot as it doesn't freeze every night. At what point am I beat for this year? I don't think I want to leave everything as is until the spring as things will probably move over the winter. I suppose I could buy some straw and insulate after the pour, but that is more trouble for me and I am allergic to it?

Any advice on my hoped for late season pour?

Thanks

Jonathan

[John Hines]

Concrete generates its own heat, as it cures.

I've seen pours this time of year that were covered in sheet plastic, and a layer of straw, to cover it for a day or two.

[default]

25 F is fairly low temperatures even for a pour with antifreeze in it. I think you're probably looking at heating the garage for a fortnight, if you really want this done now.

[Eric Tonks]

Concrete is poured throughout winter in Canada, we get some bad winters.

[TOM]

Here's the FAQ from the Portland Cement Association:

See item 10.

-- Tom

[Jonathan Mau]

Hello again:

Thanks for the comments guys. I found out why I can't get anyone to do this job any time soon: Hunting season starts Monday. I am new to rural living but apparently regular life shuts down for 2 weeks. Looks like I have 2 or 3 weeks to find some straw to insulate after the pour.

Jonathan