Masonry Contractor Tips on Who to Work in Hot Weather Conditions

How to Work on Masonry in the Hot Weather  

Hot weather brings its own unique challenges for a masonry contractor. As ambient temperatures begin to rise, and materials and equipment start to heat up, the moisture evaporates more rapidly, which leaves less water available for cement hydration.

For masonry construction, hot weather is defined as “ambient temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, or 90 degrees Fahrenheit when the wind is more than 8 mph.

Compounding factors will also include low relative humidity and direct sunshine. As the temperature of the mortar increases this will start to happen:

• Workability is reduced

• More water is needed to maintain a workability

• Initial and final set happens earlier, and evaporation rates are faster

• Units absorb more moisture out from the mortar

As a result, masons will find it more difficult to install mortar and units. In addition to the effects on workability, rapid drying will also result in a lack of sufficient water for the hydration of the cement in the mortar. This will affect normal strength development, leading to a reduction in strength.

Choosing a Mortar Mix for Hot Weather

In hot-weather construction, mortar properties like water retentivity and workability must be given careful consideration when choosing the ingredients and mortar type. For instance, provided Type N and Type S mortars are structurally adequate for a given masonry application. However, a Type N mortar is a better choice for construction during hot weather.

Techniques that can be used for construction in hot weather range from:

1. choosing workable, water-retentive mortar mixes

2. Organize construction to avoid working in hot, midday periods

3. Minimize exposure of materials and equipment to sunlight

4. Use cool water

5. Maintain sandpiles

6. Flush metal equipment and wooden mortarboards with cool water before they make contact with fresh mortar

If you would like to make an appointment with our Des Moines Masonry masonry contractor, please do not hesitate to call (515) 355-3123 today, we are based in the Urbandale, IA area.