Concrete in Cold Weather

When the weather outside is frightful, decorative concrete work isn't so delightful. These stories tell how some contractors fought through the cold to finish their projects.
By Emily Panter

Concrete Decor asked artisans around the country about their experiences installing projects during cold weather. They faced freezing temperatures, snowy weather, and even challenges indoors during cold spells. Each artisan found his own solution for handling work during the winter months.

Saved by a sealer
I-85 underpass, Columbus, Ga.
When PermaCrete/Quality Systems Inc. was called upon to resurface a concrete area under an Interstate 85 exit in Columbus, Ga., they had no idea what Mother Nature had in store.

“The sudden drop in temperature and the snowstorm came as a big surprise, but we just had to live with it,” says George Henderson, president and CEO of the company.

The November weather brought temperatures that dipped as low as 19 degrees Fahrenheit. Add blowing snow on the last day while installing the final sealer coat, and you’ve got quite a challenge.