Risk Threshold
Warning Levels for Concrete Evaporation:
- 0.05 - 0.10 lb/ft²/hr: Low to moderate risk; monitor conditions.
- > 0.10 lb/ft²/hr (0.5 kg/m²/hr): Caution. Potential for cracking; use windbreaks, sunshades, or misting.
- > 0.20 lb/ft²/hr (1.0 kg/m²/hr): High Risk. Immediate danger of plastic shrinkage cracking; mandatory precautions required.
About This Calculator
This calculator estimates the rate of surface moisture evaporation from fresh concrete based on environmental conditions. The calculation follows ACI 305 guidelines and helps concrete professionals assess the risk of plastic shrinkage cracking.
Reducing Risk of Plastic Shrinkage Cracking
- Consider using evaporation retarders on the concrete surface
- Consider erecting temporary windbreaks around the pour area
- Consider applying fog spray to maintain surface moisture
- Consider using sunshades to reduce direct sun exposure
- Consider scheduling pours during cooler parts of the day
- Consider beginning curing procedures promptly after finishing
Need Concrete for Your Project?
Contact our team for quality ready-mix concrete delivered to your job site.
913-441-4197Disclaimer: This calculator is provided for informational and educational purposes only and offers a convenient estimate based on the ACI 305 formula. ACI 305 recommends measuring environmental conditions directly at the job site for the most accurate results. The results from this calculator should not be relied upon as the sole basis for any construction decisions. Actual evaporation rates may vary based on numerous factors not accounted for in this calculator. Penny's Concrete, Inc. makes no warranties, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of this tool for any particular purpose. Users are solely responsible for verifying conditions on-site and making their own professional judgments. By using this calculator, you acknowledge that Penny's Concrete, Inc. shall not be liable for any damages, losses, or claims arising from the use of or reliance on this tool or its results. Always consult with qualified professionals and follow applicable industry standards and local regulations.
Weather Data Notice: The "Get Local Weather" feature uses third-party weather data from OpenWeatherMap, which provides estimates based on nearby weather stations, satellites, and weather models. Weather conditions at your specific job site may differ from these estimates due to microclimates, local terrain, urban heat effects, or distance from the nearest weather station. Weather station coverage varies by location, and data in some areas of Kansas and Missouri may be less precise than in densely monitored urban areas. Temperature readings may vary by several degrees from actual on-site conditions. Wind speed and humidity can vary significantly over short distances. Always verify weather conditions on-site with your own measurements before making critical decisions. Penny's Concrete, Inc. is not responsible for the accuracy of third-party weather data.