Summer in Louisiana isn’t just hot—it’s brutal. And in concrete construction, that heat brings more than discomfort. It introduces risk.

At D. Honoré Construction, we’ve built our reputation on anticipating and overcoming environmental challenges—especially when it comes to temperature-sensitive work. In the summer months, managing heat-related risks becomes a critical part of our field strategy, particularly on the large-scale commercial projects we’re trusted to deliver.

Understanding the Risks of Heat on Concrete

Elevated temperatures accelerate the rate of hydration in concrete. That might sound like a productivity gain, but in reality, it can lead to:

• Plastic shrinkage cracking before the surface sets
• Rapid moisture evaporation leading to weaker top layers
• Thermal cracking as temperatures fluctuate post-placement
• Reduced long-term strength from improperly cured slabs

For multi-million-dollar commercial sites, those issues aren’t cosmetic—they’re structural and costly.

Our Summer Strategy: Precision in Execution

We take a multi-layered approach to heat mitigation, starting long before the first pour:

1. Early Start Times and Scheduling Flexibility

To reduce exposure to peak temperatures, our crews begin early. In some cases, we adjust to night or pre-dawn pours for optimal conditions—especially on large slabs or tiltwall placements.

2. On-Site Monitoring and Mix Adjustments

We monitor ambient and surface temps in real time. We work closely with our ready-mix suppliers to adjust admixtures, retarders, and water content specific to the project’s conditions and structural requirements.

3. Curing That Meets the Moment

Hot weather curing isn’t one-size-fits-all. We use moisture-retaining curing blankets, fog misting, and evaporation retardants as needed, ensuring the concrete develops the strength and durability our clients expect.

4. Field Team Precision

Because our field team self-performs the work, we maintain full control over execution. We don't rely on third-party subs who may not be attuned to our standards or our region’s environmental demands. That’s how we ensure consistency—every placement, every time.

Proactive Risk Management Is Part of the Plan

We don’t wait for problems to appear—we plan for them. Our preconstruction and project management teams collaborate closely to address weather variables from the start. That means scheduling critical path pours intelligently, staging materials efficiently, and communicating clearly with our clients every step of the way.

Summer Doesn’t Slow Us Down
When the heat’s at its worst, our work is at its best. D. Honoré Construction brings the experience, adaptability, and field leadership needed to deliver safe, high-quality concrete services—even in the most demanding Louisiana summer conditions.

Let’s talk about how we can help keep your commercial project on track this season.

👉 Contact us at www.dhonore.com