By Bennett's Concrete and Excavation, Norwich, NY. Updated October 2026.
What counts as cold weather
The National Ready Mixed Concrete Association defines cold weather as a period when the average daily temperature stays below 40°F for more than three days in a row. That's a normal late fall or early spring stretch up here.
The 500 psi rule
Fresh concrete must be protected from freezing until it reaches about 500 psi of compressive strength, which is typically around two days after placement under protection. Freeze it before then and the surface can scale and the slab can lose strength for good.
What we do about it
- Never pour on frozen ground, snow or ice. The base has to be thawed.
- Order the right mix and temperature from the plant.
- Cover fresh concrete with insulated blankets or tarps.
- Use curing compound or sheeting on slabs. Water curing isn't used when freezing is likely.
- Watch the forecast and move the date if we have to.
Book early
Spring and summer fill up fast. If you want a pour before winter, reach out early in the year.
