How to Cure Concrete in Cold Temperatures

Build a scaffold around the concrete project, taking care that the entire structure is enclosed. Leave ample room for workers to move around and allow for ventilation of the heating devices.

Cover the scaffold frame with plastic sheeting or scaffold covering. Overlap the edges of the plastic sheeting, sealing the seams with wide tape. The tented scaffold must be set up in advance of the project, so the ground, forms and materials inside have a surface temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Set up electric or propane heaters inside the scaffold enclosure. It may be necessary for the heating devices to run for several days before the area is sufficiently heated to allow pouring concrete. Always ensure proper ventilation is available when operating a heater in an enclosed area.

Pour the concrete and finish it in the desired technique. Allow the concrete structure to cure inside the enclosed scaffold for a minimum of three days. Optimum strength is achieved when the concrete cures for seven days.

Keep the concrete structure moist during the curing phase to ensure optimal results. Sprinkle the surface with a water hose every six to 12 hours to keep the concrete from drying out prematurely. A lack of moisture during the curing process fosters poor strength, but you also shouldn't leave puddles of water on the surface.

Remove the form boards at the end of the curing period. Dismantle or discard the enclosed scaffold.