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newly poured footers under water

newly poured footers under water

newly poured footers under water

(OP)
My builder poured my basement footers today.  Shortly after we had a heavy rain.  When I went to check on the day's progress, I found the footers completely under water.  What long term effect will this have on the strength of the footers?

RE: newly poured footers under water

If the concrete was placed prior to the rainfall, and had a chance to set up such that the rain did not damage the top surface of the concrete, then the damage may be minimal.  The water is great for curing the concrete.

I would recommend pumping out the water, though, prior to allowing any equipment near the footings, and before allowing additional load to be applied to them as the soil is now fully saturated and is more susceptible to movement and settling.

RE: newly poured footers under water

twib...this is the response I posted in the other location you asked the question...I concurs with JAE's remarks....

twib...assuming your concrete was not actually diluted by the rainwater (that would occur if substantial water was present when the concrete was placed), the water after initial set could actually have a positive effect, since it moderates the curing and provides better conditions to mitigate initial shrinkage.

Make sure the subgrade was not disturbed by the additional water and make sure the top surface of the concrete is relatively "hard".  If both of these are OK, it is probably not a big issue (assuming you have good concrete to start).

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