Using concrete when it's cold outside - not really seeking advice - just a MOAN

[Haze]

We had some work done a number of weeks ago when the temp. was hovering around ZERO. Personally I didn't think you should use concrete below around 4-6 Centigrade. But the builder assured e it would be OK.... and now? Well the work that was done is all loose, so we have loose steps in the garden, loose wall cornicing, loose repointing... so my advice is never do any construction with concrete until the temp is 6 centigrade or above.....

[robwhizz]

Aye, never use concrete in very cold conditions. Because of it's exothermic reaction when it cures, the cold cools it down too fast so it doesn't react enough and loses a lot of strength.

Get the builder back in to fix it for free.

[Haze]

We know him, and he's coming in to do more stuff tomorrow.... So he's going to be told..... I knew about the exothermic nature too....

[robwhizz]

I knew about the exothermic nature too....

I didn't the first time I used concrete and I wanted it to set quickly so I put loads of heaters in the room to try and dry it out! 

[net-curtains]

I know not to use concrete when there's a possibility of a frost, and I'm a web designer. Personally I'd give him his cards before he causes more problems.

[Tony]

...or do some research for him and take some time to explain how he should have done it and why it's important to understand how concrete works - especially if you're a builder, building walls where young kids are going to play.

Then sack the twat.

[robwhizz]

Then sack the twat.

I read that the other way around

[Tony]

Then sack the twat.

I read that the other way around

Either way...

[Haze]

He blames his labourer.... oh how I need to get one of those..... 

[net-curtains]

He blames his labourer.... oh how I need to get one of those..... 

Even more reason to find someone else. If he's charging you the full rate and using inexperienced labourers then he's a cowboy.

I would stop all work on the job (and payment for it) and get a professional in to assess the work. You can't mess about if they've been working on ceilings and steps, it could be dangerous. Show the report to your builder and give him the opportunity to make it right, if he refuses then show him his cards, and don't pay him for what he's done - it'll probably cost you even more to put right his mistakes.