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	<title>Concrete Blankets &#187; admin</title>
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		<title>Power Trowel Pans</title>
		<link>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2010/08/power-trowel-pans/</link>
		<comments>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2010/08/power-trowel-pans/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Aug 2010 23:14:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Tools of the Trade]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.concreteblankets.net/?p=334</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Flatwork Technologies&#8217; SuperFlat Plate2000 Power Trowel Pans win our Editor&#8217;s Choice Award for both quality and price. And now for a limited time you can purchase in bulk at dealer cost (while supplies last). Flatwork can be reached by calling 877-927-6432 or online at http://www.flatwork.com/pans.php 

]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Flatwork Technologies&#8217; SuperFlat Plate2000 Power Trowel Pans win our Editor&#8217;s Choice Award for both quality and price. And now for a limited time you can purchase in bulk at dealer cost (while supplies last). Flatwork can be reached by calling 877-927-6432 or online at <a href="http://www.flatwork.com/pans.php" target="_blank">http://www.flatwork.com/pans.php</a> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/CONCRETE-BLAST1.JPG"><img class="alignleft size-large wp-image-337" title="whiteman power trowel pans" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/CONCRETE-BLAST1-597x1024.jpg" alt="concrete power trowel pans" width="597" height="1024" /></a><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/CONCRETE-BLAST.JPG"></a></p>
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		<title>Thaw Underground Pipes</title>
		<link>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2010/08/thaw-underground-pipes/</link>
		<comments>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2010/08/thaw-underground-pipes/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Aug 2010 22:48:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Avoiding Concrete Cracks]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.concreteblankets.net/?p=299</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Utility Companies &#38; Construction Crews Use Powerblanket™ to Thaw Frozen Ground &#38; Underground Water Pipes in Cold Winter Weather. Even after spring has arrived, ground will thaw very slowely and can take months to completely thaw out.  To avoid the cost of expensive propane heaters and glycol based heated hoses&#8230; companies are turning to Powerblanket [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Utility Companies &amp; Construction Crews Use Powerblanket™ to Thaw Frozen Ground &amp; Underground Water Pipes in Cold Winter Weather. Even after spring has arrived, ground will thaw very slowely and can take months to completely thaw out.  To avoid the cost of expensive propane heaters and glycol based heated hoses&#8230; companies are turning to Powerblanket for affordable electric outdoor heating equipment. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a title="Pipe Thawing" href="http://www.powerblanket.com"></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/apop1.JPG"><img class="size-full wp-image-411 alignnone" title="pipe thawing" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/apop1.JPG" alt="pipe thawing" width="569" height="713" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Powerblanket is the manufacturer of the only patented heat spreading electric blanket that is both GREEN and comes in avaliable UL/CSA versions.  Also used for heating <a title="Road Patch" href="http://www.roadpatch.net">Road Patch</a>, Curing Concrete, Heating Engines &amp; Equipment, and Warming Barrels, Drums, &amp; Cylinders&#8230;  Powerblanket will deliver the heat you need to get the job done FAST! </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/winter_utility_thawing.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-414" title="winter_utility_thawing" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/winter_utility_thawing.jpg" alt="winter_utility_thawing" width="338" height="233" /></a><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/powerblanket-small.JPG"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-415" title="Thaw frozen ground" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/powerblanket-small.JPG" alt="Thaw frozen ground" width="223" height="117" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
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		<title>Concrete Blanket Basics</title>
		<link>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2010/08/concrete-blankets/</link>
		<comments>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2010/08/concrete-blankets/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Aug 2010 17:39:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Concrete Blankets]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.concreteblankets.net/?p=47</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Most concrete curing blankets do a good job of curing concrete, protecting slabs, and curing newly-laid brick or block walls&#8230; some however, fall flat on their face.  We review the top 10 curing blankets in our review sections. Curing blankets allow work to proceed on schedule and for concrete and mortar to cure rapidly and efficiently, maximizing finished strength [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">Most concrete curing blankets do a good job of curing concrete, protecting slabs, and curing newly-laid brick or block walls&#8230; some however, fall flat on their face.  We review the<a title="Concrete Curing Basics" href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/2009/10/best-concrete-curing-blankets/" target="_blank"> top 10 curing blankets</a> in our review sections. Curing blankets allow work to proceed on schedule and for concrete and mortar to cure rapidly and efficiently, maximizing finished strength and durability even in extemely cold conditions. Contractors and builders use concrete curing blankets to keep their jobs on schedule and under-cost; highway construction companies use curing blankets to meet state codes and keep their projects moving. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Because of their simple and economical design, concrete curing blankets are also used in a variety of other applications by small companies and individuals. They are useful in virtually any situation where cold weather causes schedule delays or damage.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Concrete curing blankets are easy to use and maintain and don&#8217;t create environmental hazards: no noxious fumes, no open flames, and no toxic emissions.</p>
<h3><a href="http://www.google.com/products?hl=en&amp;rls=com.microsoft:en-US&amp;rlz=1I7GGIT_en&amp;resnum=0&amp;q=concrete+blankets&amp;um=1&amp;ie=UTF-8&amp;ei=Tm_PSpP9A4O0NoGhrJUD&amp;sa=X&amp;oi=product_result_group&amp;ct=title&amp;resnum=1"><span style="color: #ffffff;">Shopping results for <em>concrete blankets</em></span></a></h3>
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<td style="PADDING-RIGHT: 8px; PADDING-TOP: 6px" width="80" valign="top"><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Concrete11.JPG"><img class="alignleft size-large wp-image-344" title="Concrete blanket" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Concrete11-682x1024.jpg" alt="Concrete blanket" width="84" height="105" /></a><a href="http://www.google.com/products?hl=en&amp;rls=com.microsoft:en-US&amp;rlz=1I7GGIT_en&amp;resnum=0&amp;q=concrete+blankets&amp;um=1&amp;ie=UTF-8&amp;ei=Tm_PSpP9A4O0NoGhrJUD&amp;sa=X&amp;oi=product_result_group&amp;ct=image&amp;resnum=1"></a></td>
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<div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px"><cite></cite></div>
<div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px"><a href="http://www.globalindustrial.com/p/hvac/heaters/powerblanket/powerblanket-multi-duty-6-x-25-thawing-curing-electric-blanket" target="_blank">Powerb<em>lanket Concrete</em> Curing <em>Blanket</em> 25&#8242; x 6&#8242;<br />
</a>$887.00 new &#8211; <cite>GlobalIndustrial.com</cite></div>
<div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px"><a onmousedown="return clk('http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/NTEChIntJump?storeId=6970&amp;langId=-1&amp;url=/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200382067_200382067&amp;cm_ven=Aggregates&amp;cm_cat=Google&amp;cm_pla=Heaters%2C%20Stoves%20%2B%20Fireplaces%3EHeaters&amp;cm_ite=7002327&amp;ci_src=14110944&amp;ci_sku=7002327','','','res','4','&amp;sig2=Pd28pCd8lxV_OgjgrCF4kQ','0CB8QFDAD')" href="http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/NTEChIntJump?storeId=6970&amp;langId=-1&amp;url=/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200382067_200382067&amp;cm_ven=Aggregates&amp;cm_cat=Google&amp;cm_pla=Heaters%2C%20Stoves%20%2B%20Fireplaces%3EHeaters&amp;cm_ite=7002327&amp;ci_src=14110944&amp;ci_sku=7002327">Multi-Duty <em>Concrete</em> <em>Blanket</em> 23&#8242; x 11&#8242;</a><br />
$1,699.99 new &#8211; <cite>NorthernTool.com</cite></div>
<div style="PADDING-BOTTOM: 2px"><a href="http://www.globalindustrial.com/p/hvac/heaters/powerblanket/powerblanket-extra-hot-4-x-9-multi-purpose-electric-blanket" target="_blank"><em>Extra-Hot Outdoor Thawing Blanket</em><br />
</a>$559.00 new &#8211; <cite>GLOBAL</cite></div>
<p> </td>
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</table>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A well constructed concrete curing blanket will eliminate the cold weather variable in a variety of horticultural, agricultural, landscaping, or construction settings: and with an electric curing multi-duty blanket you can quickly and easily thaw frozen ground, protect germinating seeds and bulbs, and minimize the effects of late-season snow or ice. <a title="Cold Weather Curing Blankets" href="http://www.powerblanket.com" target="_blank">Electric curing blankets</a> can quickly unthaw frozen ground, making it easy to work. Curing blankets can also keep the ground from freezing, protecting from the effects of freezing weather, snow, or ice. Concrete curing blankets can also be used to protect newly-poured concrete, brick, or stone walkways and paths, ensuring optimal curing temperatures and a long-lasting, durable product. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Always be sure to thaw frozen ground before pouring concrete. Never pour concrete on frozen ground unless you&#8217;re looking for a nightmare of a headache.  Plan your work and work your plan.  You can effectively keep your crews working all winter long with a good curing blanket.  Electirc thaw/cure blankets will help kill 2 birds with one stone and allow you to eliminate frost before proceeding with flatwork projects.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Curing-Blanket.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-89" title="Curing Blanket" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Curing-Blanket.jpg" alt="Curing Blanket" width="587" height="189" /></a>Our Editor&#8217;s Choice Award goes to <a href="http://www.greenheattech.com" target="_blank">GreenHeat Technology </a>for their innovative new low energy consuming curing blankets.  GreenHeat Technology is used in a variety of applications for Industrial, Construction, Chemical, Manufacturing, Food/Beverage, Oil &amp; Gas, and Automotive heating.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;"> <a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/concrete.JPG"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-349" title="concrete" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/concrete.JPG" alt="concrete" width="235" height="452" /></a>YEAR ROUND THAWING &amp; CURING</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">   UL / CSA SAFETY RATING</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">  PATENTED HEAT SPREADING TECHNOLOGY</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">  ONLY PENNIES A DAY TO OPERATE</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">  PROVIDES A WET CURE ENVIRONMENT</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">  KEEP CREWS WORKING ALL WINTER LONG</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">   HEATS, THAWS, INSULTES, &amp; PROTECTS</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">  THE #1 RATED THAWING &amp; CURING BLANKET ON THE MARKET</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">  WOC - WORLD OF CONCRETE BEST OF SHOW</h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/powerblanket-smallss.JPG"><img class="size-full wp-image-364 aligncenter" title="powee blanket" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/powerblanket-smallss.JPG" alt="powee blanket" width="300" height="161" /></a></p>
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		<title>Concrete Cracks</title>
		<link>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2010/08/avoiding-concrete-cracks/</link>
		<comments>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2010/08/avoiding-concrete-cracks/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Aug 2010 17:02:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Avoiding Concrete Cracks]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.concreteblankets.net/?p=287</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How to avoid cracks in concrete even in cold winter months.
Under ideal conditions, concrete should cure for 7 days at temperatures between 65-85°F, with humidity levels under 100%. Because of seasonal weather changes, ideal conditions rarely occur naturally.  Insulated and even electric concrete curing blankets can be employed to help maintain concrete temperature during the critical curing [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">How to avoid cracks in concrete even in cold winter months.</span></h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Under ideal conditions, concrete should cure for 7 days at temperatures between 65-85°F, with humidity levels under 100%. Because of seasonal weather changes, ideal conditions rarely occur naturally.  Insulated and even electric concrete curing blankets can be employed to help maintain concrete temperature during the critical curing process to <a href="http://www.powerblanket.com/Concrete_Curing-c-1.html">avoid concrete cracking</a>.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Why Use Powerblanket™ <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Concrete Curing</span> &amp; <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Ground Thawing</span> Blankets?</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Pouring concrete slabs can be a challenge and cold temperatures can increase the risk that your concrete will not cure properly. Proper concrete curing is a key to a strong, long-lasting concrete slab.  Even the slightest mistake can lead to large cracks and low integrity.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Never pour concrete on frozen ground. Use powerblanket™ concrete curing blankets to thaw the ground and bring the temperature up to at least 65°F. Why? Not only can the ground freeze the concrete from the bottom up, cracking can occur when the ground thaws. Hollow spots under the concrete may also be created &#8211; and driving over the hollow spots will create tension which in turn creates cracks.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Likewise, <em>never </em>pour concrete over snow &#8211; you&#8217;ll simply add unnecessary water to the concrete.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If you&#8217;re pouring a foundation slab, temperature control is even more critical. A foundation wall is simply a vertical slab &#8211; but it&#8217;s exposed on three sides once the forms are pulled. Foundation forms should be protected with powerblanket™ concrete curing blankets for at least three days, depending on weather conditions.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If you remove forms too quickly, your foundation walls will have less protection, especially if you also remove the Powerblanket™ <a title="Insulated Curing Blankets" href="http://www.powerblanket.com">concrete curing blankets</a>. Temperatures below 14°F completely stop the hydration (crystal growing) process.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If the walls are backfilled before proper curing has taken place, the concrete may not be strong enough to withstand the pressure. Once temperatures rise above that point, the chemical reaction resumes, but very slowly. It could take a long time for your foundation walls to gain enough strength to resist the pressure of backfill dirt.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Use Low Slump Concrete</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Low slump concrete is hard to work with, but in cold weather it can mean the difference between success and failure. While labor costs can be higher, you&#8217;ll have less water bleed problems, and you can place the Powerblanket™ concrete curing blankets on the slab more quickly, reducing the effects of cold weather.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Our testing shows Powerblanket™ to be highly effective at thawing frozen ground and curing concrete during cold winter months.  Achieve higher PSI levels and keep crews working all winter long with the electric outdoor construction Powerblanket™.  They really work&#8230; allowing you to move to the next job instead of waiting for your concrete to cure.  You&#8217;ll be days &amp; dollars ahead with Powerblanket™.</p>
<div id="attachment_294" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 596px"><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Powerblanket-Logo.JPG"><img class="size-large wp-image-294" title="Avoid Concrete Cracks" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Powerblanket-Logo-1024x303.jpg" alt="Avoid Concrete Cracks" width="586" height="152" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Avoid Concrete Cracks</p></div>
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		<title>NRI Bridge Report</title>
		<link>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2009/10/nri-bridge-report/</link>
		<comments>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2009/10/nri-bridge-report/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 10 Oct 2009 15:15:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[In the News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.concreteblankets.net/?p=142</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Material Usage and Condition of Existing Bridges in the U.S. reports that 72,749 of the U.S. bridges studied were structurally deficient. More than half of the deficient bridges were constructed with structural steel.
Download the report
 
 Accelerated Bridge Construction:  A workshop was conducted at the 2006 Concrete Bridge Conference in Reno, NV to develop guidance on what [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.cement.org/bookstore/profile.asp?itemid=SR342" target="_blank"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-143" title="NBI BRIDGE REPORT" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/NBI-BRIDGE-REPORT.bmp" alt="NBI BRIDGE REPORT" /></a><em>Material Usage and Condition of Existing Bridges in the U.S</em>. reports that 72,749 of the U.S. bridges studied were structurally deficient. More than half of the deficient bridges were constructed with structural steel.<br />
<a title="NRI Bridge Report" href="http://www.cement.org/bookstore/profile.asp?itemid=SR342" target="_blank">Download the report</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> <a href="http://www.cement.org/bridges/RBC_Summary.pdf" target="_blank"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-149" title="rapid_bridge_building" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/rapid_bridge_building.jpg" alt="rapid_bridge_building" width="72" height="84" /></a>Accelerated Bridge Construction:  A workshop was conducted at the 2006 Concrete Bridge Conference in Reno, NV to develop guidance on what is needed to further implement accelerated bridge construction nationwide.<br />
<a title="New Bridges" href="http://www.cement.org/bridges/RBC_Summary.pdf" target="_blank">Click here for a summary report (PDF).</a></p>
<p>  </p>
<p><a href="http://www.cement.org/bridges/2010BridgeAwards_Call4Entries.pdf" target="_blank"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-153" title="2010BridgeAwards_Cover" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/2010BridgeAwards_Cover.jpg" alt="2010BridgeAwards_Cover" width="72" height="113" /></a></p>
<div id="subsections">2010 Concrete Bridge Award Competition &#8211; Entries Open</div>
<div id="pad5greyborder">The Awards will recognize creativity and skillfulness in the structural, aesthetic, sustainable, and economic design of concrete bridges.<br />
<a title="2010 Concrete Bridge Award Competition" href="http://www.cement.org/bridges/2010BridgeAwards_Call4Entries.pdf" target="_blank">&lt; Competition Information </a></div>
<p><a title="Bridge Competition Form" href="http://www.cement.org/bridges/br_award_submission_form.asp" target="_blank">&lt; Online Entry Form</a></p>
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		<title>Cold Weather Concrete</title>
		<link>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2009/10/cold-weather-concrete/</link>
		<comments>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2009/10/cold-weather-concrete/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:40:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Cold Weather Concrete]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.concreteblankets.net/?p=50</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[10 Tips for Pouring Concrete in Cold Weather
1. Always plan in advance. Have your equipment and materials ready before cold weather hits. Be ready with heaters, insulated curing blankets, and/or enclosures.
2. Use air-entrained concrete.
3. Don&#8217;t place concrete on a frozen subbase. Be sure that all ice, snow and frost are removed from surfaces the concrete will [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">10 Tips for Pouring Concrete in Cold Weather</span></h3>
<div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Always plan in advance. Have your equipment and materials ready before cold weather hits. Be ready with heaters, <a title="Pouring Concrete in Cold Weather" href="http://www.powerblanket.com" target="_blank">insulated curing blankets</a>, and/or enclosures.</span></div>
<p>2. <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Use air-entrained concrete.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Don&#8217;t place concrete on a frozen subbase. Be sure that all ice, snow and frost are removed from surfaces the concrete will touch. <a title="Groound Thawing Blanket" href="http://www.powerblanket.com/Ground_Thawing-c-2.html" target="_blank">Thawing frozen ground</a> is highly recommended.</span> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. For max durability &amp; strength, fresh concrete should be kept at 55ºF or higher for thin sections. Consider using high-early strength concrete.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Cure concrete to prevent loss of moisture. When heated enclosures are used, provide extra moisture by sprinkling or use steam for heating. Vent salamanders and other fuel-burning heaters. Concrete should be allowed to cool slowly to prevent thermal cracking. Best solution we&#8217;ve observed is a <a title="Concrete Curing Blanket" href="http://www.powerblanket.com/Concrete_Curing-c-1.html" target="_blank">wet cure concrete curing</a> blanket with insulated backing.  </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6. Do not use &#8220;antifreeze&#8221; compounds in an attempt to lower the freezing point of concrete. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7. Leave the forms in place as long as the job schedules permit. Reshoring is necessary until concrete reaches required design strength.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">8. Keep job condition records. Record, at least twice daily: weather conditions, temperatures of the air and the concrete surface.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">9. If the concrete is to cure below 60ºF, water reducers or retarders may prolong the set. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10. The use of calcium chloride or admixtures containing soluble chlorides is not recommended under certain conditions. Concrete curing blankets are always prefered.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ideally, concrete should cure for 7 days at temperatures between 65-85°F, with humidity levels under 100%. Due to seasonal weather changes, ideal conditions rarely occur naturally.</span></p>
<div id="attachment_58" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 210px"><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Concrete1.JPG"><img class="size-medium wp-image-58" title="Curing Blanket" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Concrete1-200x300.jpg" alt="Powerblanket Concrete Curing Electric Blankets" width="200" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Powerblanket Concrete Curing Electric Blankets</p></div>
<p> <strong>Use Powerblanket™ Concrete Curing Blankets</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Pouring concrete slabs can be a challenge even in ideal weather conditions. Cold temperatures can increase the risk that your concrete will not cure properly. Proper concrete curing is a key to a strong, long-lasting concrete slab.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Never pour concrete on frozen ground. Use powerblanket™ or other ground thawing electric blankets to bring the temperature up to at least 65°F. Why? Not only can the ground freeze the concrete from the bottom up, cracking can occur when the ground thaws. Hollow spots under the concrete may also be created &#8211; and driving over the hollow spots will create tension which in turn creates cracks.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Likewise, never pour concrete over snow &#8211; you&#8217;ll simply add unnecessary water to the concrete.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If you&#8217;re pouring a foundation slab, temperature control is even more critical. A foundation wall is simply a vertical slab &#8211; but it&#8217;s exposed on three sides once the forms are pulled. Foundation forms should be protected with <a title="Powerblanket" href="http://www.powerblanket.com" target="_blank">powerblanket™</a> or other concrete curing blankets for at least three days, depending on weather conditions.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If you remove forms too quickly, your foundation walls will have less protection, especially if you also remove the concrete curing blankets. Temperatures below 14°F completely stop the hydration (crystal growing) process, demanding the use of curing blankets or other meothods of applying heat.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If the walls are backfilled before proper curing has taken place, the concrete may not be strong enough to withstand the pressure. Once temperatures rise above that point, the chemical reaction resumes, but very slowly. It could take a long time for your foundation walls to gain enough strength to resist the pressure of backfill dirt.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Use Low Slump Concrete</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Low slump concrete is hard to work with, but in cold weather it can mean the difference between success and failure. While labor costs can be higher, you&#8217;ll have less water bleed problems, and you can place the powerblanket™ concrete curing blankets on the slab more quickly, reducing the effects of cold weather.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>
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		<title>Top Rated Concrete Curing Blankets</title>
		<link>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2009/10/best-concrete-curing-blankets/</link>
		<comments>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2009/10/best-concrete-curing-blankets/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:38:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[In the News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.concreteblankets.net/?p=45</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[We have assembled a list of the TOP 10 Concrete Curing Blankets on the market.  Give us your feedback and experience with these brands and we&#8217;ll post your comments on the website.
TOP 10 CONCRETE CURING BLANKETS
POWERBLANKET: http://www.powerblanket.com (Editor&#8217;s Choice) 5 Star
EAGLE: http://www.eagleind.com/site.php
REEF INDUSTRIES: http://www.reefindustries.com/products.php?id=4&#38;tsid=googleppc
DALCO: http://www.dalcoindustries.com/index.php/pagetype/products/id/1241.html
FLATWORK: http://www.flatwork.com
MIDCO: http://jcsmithinc.net/jcsmith/prod_pgs/concrete_blankets.htm
PREGIS: http://www.pregis.com/ConcreteCuringBlankets/Products/tabid/545/language/en-US/default.aspx
GREENHEAT: http://www.greenheattech.com
COVER-TECH: http://cover-tech.com/curingblankets.htm
TOPPER: http://www.insulationsolutions.com/products/topper/information.html

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 




Insulated Concrete Blankets


]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We have assembled a list of the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>TOP 10</strong></span> Concrete Curing Blankets on the market.  Give us your feedback and experience with these brands and we&#8217;ll post your comments on the website.<a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/insulated-concrete-blanket.jpg"></a><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/insulated-concrete-blanket2.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-250" title="insulated concrete blanket" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/insulated-concrete-blanket2-1023x441.jpg" alt="Insulated Concrete Blankets" width="363" height="151" /></a><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/insulated-concrete-blanket.jpg"></a></p>
<h3>TOP 10 CONCRETE CURING BLANKETS</h3>
<p>POWERBLANKET: <a href="http://www.powerblanket.com">http://www.powerblanket.com</a> (Editor&#8217;s Choice) 5 Star</p>
<p>EAGLE: <a href="http://www.eagleind.com/site.php">http://www.eagleind.com/site.php</a></p>
<p>REEF INDUSTRIES: <a href="http://www.reefindustries.com/products.php?id=4&amp;tsid=googleppc">http://www.reefindustries.com/products.php?id=4&amp;tsid=googleppc</a></p>
<p>DALCO: <a href="http://www.dalcoindustries.com/index.php/pagetype/products/id/1241.html">http://www.dalcoindustries.com/index.php/pagetype/products/id/1241.html</a></p>
<p>FLATWORK: <a href="http://www.flatwork.com">http://www.flatwork.com</a></p>
<p>MIDCO: <a href="http://jcsmithinc.net/jcsmith/prod_pgs/concrete_blankets.htm">http://jcsmithinc.net/jcsmith/prod_pgs/concrete_blankets.htm</a></p>
<p>PREGIS: <a href="http://www.pregis.com/ConcreteCuringBlankets/Products/tabid/545/language/en-US/default.aspx">http://www.pregis.com/ConcreteCuringBlankets/Products/tabid/545/language/en-US/default.aspx</a></p>
<p>GREENHEAT: <a href="http://www.greenheattech.com">http://www.greenheattech.com</a></p>
<p>COVER-TECH: <a href="http://cover-tech.com/curingblankets.htm">http://cover-tech.com/curingblankets.htm</a></p>
<p>TOPPER: <a href="http://www.insulationsolutions.com/products/topper/information.html">http://www.insulationsolutions.com/products/topper/information.html</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/logo_flatwork.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-71" title="logo_flatwork" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/logo_flatwork.jpg" alt="logo_flatwork" width="284" height="115" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
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<p><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/COVER-TECH.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-72" title="COVER-TECH" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/COVER-TECH-300x85.jpg" alt="COVER-TECH" width="234" height="52" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
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<p><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/GREENHEAT-LOGO.gif"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-73" title="GREENHEAT LOGO" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/GREENHEAT-LOGO.gif" alt="GREENHEAT LOGO" width="366" height="86" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/eagle2.gif"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-74" title="eagle2" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/eagle2.gif" alt="eagle2" width="269" height="316" /></a></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Powerblanket-Logo.JPG"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-75" title="Powerblanket Logo" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Powerblanket-Logo.JPG" alt="Powerblanket Logo" width="429" height="114" /></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/topper_big.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-76" title="TOPPER LOGO.ai" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/topper_big.jpg" alt="TOPPER LOGO.ai" width="350" height="87" /></a></p>
<div class="mceTemp">
<dl id="attachment_250" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 373px;">
<dt class="wp-caption-dt"></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd">Insulated Concrete Blankets</dd>
</dl>
</div>
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		<title>Winter Curing</title>
		<link>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2009/09/concrete-curing-blankets/</link>
		<comments>http://www.concreteblankets.net/2009/09/concrete-curing-blankets/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 02 Sep 2009 20:18:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Curing Tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://concreteblankets.net/?p=1</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In the world of Concrete Construction, fortunes have been made and lost based on weather conditions.  Concrete blankets are used to even the winter playing field and allow construction companies to keep pouring even in the coldest of conditions (VIEW VIDEO AT RIGHT).  Concrete Curing blankets really fall into 1 of 3 categories:
1. Simple fabric
2. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: justify;">In the world of Concrete Construction, fortunes have been made and lost based on weather conditions.  Concrete blankets are used to even the winter playing field and allow construction companies to keep pouring even in the coldest of conditions <span style="color: #333399;"><strong>(VIEW VIDEO AT RIGHT).  </strong></span>Concrete Curing blankets really fall into 1 of 3 categories:</p>
<p>1. Simple fabric</p>
<p>2. Woven Poly-B</p>
<p>3. Electric Insulated</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Of the 3 types of blankets available on the marketplace, we are most impressed with some of the new insulated electric blankets we&#8217;ve been testing.  Although more expensive than traditional fabric or Woven Poly-B blankets, these new electric curing blankets do a remarkably good job of retaining moisture and protecting concrete from freezing even in temperatures below -20F.  The best electric blankets we&#8217;ve tested included a very good R factor insulated foam backing with an inner heat-spreading material that keeps the heat in and cold out.  In 20 years of pouring concrete, I&#8217;ve never seen anything that comes close to these new electric curing blankets.  I&#8217;m speaking of the <a title="Powerblanket" href="http://www.powerblanket.com" target="_blank">Powerblanket</a> by Flatwork Technologies located in Salt Lake City, UT.  Somehow, they have managed to develop a patented heat spreading technology called &#8220;GreenHeat&#8221; that evenly distributes a barrier of warmth over a unique inner carbon fiber material that produces a wet cure environment in any weather condition&#8230; even extreme HOT or COLD!  These blankets are reusable and can be placed on vertical or horizontal applications allowing concrete work to continue, uninterrupted, all winter (or summer) long.</p>
<div class="mceTemp">
<dl id="attachment_28" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 360px;">
<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a href="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/concrete2.JPG"><img class="size-full wp-image-28 " title="Powerblanket Electric Curing Blankets" src="http://www.concreteblankets.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/concrete2.JPG" alt="Concrete Curing Blankets" width="350" height="263" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd">Concrete Curing Blankets (877) 927-6432</dd>
</dl>
<p><strong>Powerblanket Electric Curing Blankets</strong></div>
<ul>
<li>Eliminates need for tents or additives</li>
<li>Only pennies a day to operate</li>
<li>UL / CSA safety rated</li>
<li>Available in 120V, 240V, and 3-Phase</li>
<li>Powered by GreenHeat Technology</li>
<li>Patented Heat Spreading Design</li>
<li>Produces a wet cure environment</li>
<li>Yields a harder / stronger product</li>
<li>Helps eliminate cracking and chipping</li>
<li>Keep work crews working all season</li>
<li>Avoid costly delays / work stoppage</li>
<li>Effective at temperatures well below 0</li>
<li>Weatherproof / water resistant design</li>
<li>GUARANTEED TO WORK !</li>
</ul>
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