conrete air content

[dcceecy]

The pier (pedestal) of concrete footing is exposed to weather (in cold area). But the air content from cylinder test shows that there is only 3.5% air content. We want them to have 5-7% air conent.
So What's the best way to deal with this? is 3.5% acceptable?

It's will be very expensive (and will delay the schedule) to demolish the concrete and cast new one.

Any suggestions?

 

[Ron]

Coat the concrete with asphalt mastic.

 

[dik]

There are clear sealers/coatings, but will be a bigger maintenance issue. If not properly applied, Ron's solution can be downright ugly.

Dik

 

[Ron]

dik...I'm assuming the pedestals will be backfilled and not maintainable. You are correct...it will be ugly.