The objectives of cold weather concreting practices are to prevent damage to concrete due to freezing at early ages, ensure that the concrete develops the required strength for safe removal of forms, maintain curing conditions that foster normal strength development, limit rapid temperature changes, and provide protection consistent with the intended serviceability of the structure.
Concrete placed during cold weather will develop sufficient strength and durability to satisfy intended service requirements when it is properly produced, placed, and protected. This guide provides information for the contractor to select the best methods to satisfy the minimum cold weather concreting requirements.
This guide discusses: concrete temperature during mixing and placing, temperature loss during delivery, preparation for cold weather concreting, protection requirements for concrete that does not require construction supports, estimating strength development, methods of protection, curing requirements, and admixtures for accelerating setting and strength gain including antifreeze admixtures. The materials, processes, quality control measures, and inspections described in this document should be tested, monitored, or performed as applicable only by individuals holding the appropriate ACI Certifications or equivalent.