Concrete is a tough material—but it’s also surprisingly sensitive. In summer, soaring temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds can wreak havoc on curing, leading to weak spots, cracking, and costly do-overs. Managing moisture and temperature during curing is essential for concrete contractors to deliver strong, durable, and high-performance concrete.
At REIC Specialty Rentals, we understand the challenges of summer pours. Our temporary climate control solutions—cooling systems, dehumidifiers —help you create the optimal environment for concrete to cure properly, even in extreme conditions.
The Science Behind Concrete Curing
Curing is the process of maintaining adequate moisture, temperature, and time for freshly placed concrete to develop its full strength and durability. The hydration reaction—the chemical process where cement and water bind aggregates—requires stable moisture and moderate temperatures.
The American Concrete Institute (ACI) recommends maintaining a surface temperature of 50°F to 90°F (10°C to 32°C) during curing. Deviation from this range, especially in hot summer conditions, can cause:
- Rapid water loss
- Surface shrinkage cracking
- Reduced strength development
- Increased permeability and lower durability
Simply put: If the surface dries too fast, your concrete suffers. And no amount of finishing can undo poor curing.
Why Summer Is the Trickiest Season for Curing
Summer presents unique challenges for concrete contractors, particularly on outdoor or exposed sites:
High Ambient Temperatures
Heat accelerates evaporation, pulling moisture from the surface before proper hydration can occur. This leads to early-age cracking, which can compromise structural performance.
Dry Winds
Wind speeds up the evaporation process and can also cause temperature differentials between the surface and interior of the slab, increasing the risk of warping.
Temperature Swings
Hot days and cooler nights can cause thermal gradients in thick pours, leading to internal stress, cracking, or curling.
Low Humidity
Dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing surface moisture from uncured concrete. Low humidity combined with heat and wind is a recipe for rapid dehydration.
That’s why temporary climate control is invaluable for summer projects where performance and quality can’t be compromised.
Moisture & Temperature Control Tools for Better Summer Curing
At REIC Specialty Rentals, we work with concrete professionals to deploy job-specific climate control solutions that support strong, even curing. Here are some of the tools and techniques we offer to help you protect your work:
1. Evaporative Coolers & Spot Coolers
For enclosed spaces, portable AC units or evaporative coolers reduce ambient temperatures, helping maintain the ideal curing range. These are especially useful in warehouses, basements, parking garages, or tilt-up panel projects where high heat can linger.
2. Industrial Humidifiers
In low-humidity environments, increasing moisture in the air can slow surface drying and improve hydration. Humidifiers also reduce dust and help with safety and air quality.
3. Dehumidifiers for Controlled Environments
In certain applications—such as post-cure drying or coatings—dehumidifiers can help maintain the correct RH (relative humidity) for later-stage work without creating condensation.
4. Temporary Enclosures & Barriers
We help contractors build temporary barriers or tented areas where temperature and moisture can be regulated, especially for high-value or architectural concrete.
5. Remote Monitoring Technology
Our optional sensors and monitoring tools let you track temperature and humidity in real-time, allowing you to make adjustments before damage occurs.
When to Use Climate Control for Curing
While not every job requires temporary cooling or moisture control, here are key situations where it pays off:
- Large slab pours exposed to direct sunlight
- Architectural or decorative concrete
- Post-tensioned slabs requiring exact performance specs
- Night or early morning pours with significant temperature fluctuations
- Remote or elevated job sites with high wind exposure
- Enclosed spaces where HVAC is not yet operational
In these situations, contractors who use temporary solutions avoid costly rework, increase job quality, and boost client satisfaction.
Real-World Results: Successful Concrete Curing in Hot Conditions
Concrete projects often face challenges during hot weather, but effective cooling and humidity control can ensure quality results. Here are two examples of how temporary environmental controls can improve concrete curing in summer:
Commercial Foundation Pour
In high temperatures, contractors risk cracking and finish issues on large slab foundations. Using evaporative coolers and misting fans across the pour area can promote even curing, prevent cracking, and help keep projects on schedule.
Multi-Storey Deck Construction
In semi-enclosed pour zones, humidity and temperature swings can compromise concrete strength. Creating a temporary enclosure with controlled cooling and humidification can stabilize conditions, reduce delays, and ensure the deck meets strength requirements on the first attempt.
The ROI of Better Curing
Spending a little extra on climate control saves you a lot in the long run:
- Fewer cracks, callbacks, and warranty issues
- Reduced material waste and rework
- Stronger concrete with better long-term performance
- Smoother project timelines and happier clients
Every advantage counts when you are under pressure to deliver top results within tight deadlines.
Why REIC Specialty Rentals?
We understand the realities of concrete work and offer more than just equipment—we offer peace of mind. Here’s why contractors choose REIC:
- Fast, Reliable Delivery
- Rugged, Construction-Grade Equipment
- Expert Guidance on Setup & Strategy
- Scalable Solutions for Any Job Size
- 24/7 Support & Monitoring Available
Whether you’re working on a custom home foundation, multi-level parkade, or industrial slab, we help you safely and effectively manage heat, humidity, and deadlines.
Keep It Cool, Controlled, and Cured
Don’t leave concrete performance up to chance. With REIC Specialty Rentals, you can ensure optimal curing conditions—even in the toughest summer heat. From small pours to large-scale projects, we will help you maintain quality, protect your schedule, and deliver lasting results.
Talk to our climate control specialists today to create a custom solution for your next job.
