Specifying the correct mix for your job can be the difference between long-term satisfaction or disaster. Concrete specifications consist of Strength, Slump (basically the thickness) and Chemical Additives.
Concrete Exposed to freezing and thawing temperatures should have a compressive strength of 3500 psi and have at least 5% entrained air (+/- 1.5%).
For our environment we recommend a slump of 4 inches (+/- 1″). Note: a slump greater than 4″ may prolong the time you have to wait before finishing, particularly in cool weather. It will also increase the tendency for shrinkage cracking.
In addition to air entraining admixtures, chemical additives may be used to accelerate or retard setting, reduce water or plasticize the concrete.