How to Mix Concrete by Hand When It's Below Freezing

There may be no choice but to lay concrete when the temperature is below freezing. Doing so requires proper techniques for mixing, storing and pouring. Precautions and techniques help ensure a quality completed project. If temperatures are below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, it is best to wait to lay the concrete on a warmer day.

Shovel
Pick
Concrete
Cold water
Calcium chloride
Mixing bucket
Mixing tool
Wind breaks
Insulating blankets

Instructions

- 1
  
  Remove any ice and snow from the area.
  
  Clean the area where the concrete will be poured. Remove any ice residue. When the surface area is cleared, use a pick to create friction by scratching the area. This will enable the concrete to stick better.
- 2
  Mix the concrete in a warm, enclosed area near the pouring site, keeping it warm until it is poured. The ratio of water to concrete mix should be no more than 0.40; this ratio is used for wet or freezing conditions. The ratio of 0.40 means that there are 4 pounds of water per 10 pounds of concrete. Add a 2 percent ratio of calcium chloride to the cold water before mixing it with concrete. Mix for three minutes.
- 3
  Increase the temperature of the work area by using wind breaks or insulating blankets. Windbreaks can be made with weatherproof sheeting attached to frames around the work site. Cover any leaks that may let in air, ensuring that the sheeting can successfully block the wind. Electric insulating blankets can be laid over the concrete, and heat lamps can be used by suspending them over the work area, which must be kept as warm as possible while the cement sets.

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