At Paddick Engineering Limited, one of the most common questions we get during the winter months is simple:
🧩 “Can you still lay bricks or pour concrete when it’s cold?”
If you’ve heard that building work has to stop once the temperature drops below 4°C, you’re not wrong, but you’re not completely right either. The reality is that construction can continue in colder weather, as long as it’s done properly and with the right precautions.
Here’s what we recommend as an approach to cold weather building on sites.
🧱 Why Cold Weather Matters on Site
Brickwork and concrete rely on chemical reactions to gain strength. When temperatures drop, those reactions slow down. If materials freeze before they’ve cured properly, you can end up with weak mortar joints, cracked concrete, or long-term structural issues.
That’s why 4°C is often used as a rule of thumb, not because work must stop, but because extra care is needed.
Laying Bricks in Cold Conditions
Bricklaying doesn’t automatically stop in winter, but there are clear limits.
You shouldn’t lay bricks:
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If temperatures are at or below freezing
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If frost is forecast overnight and protection isn’t possible
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If bricks or blocks are frozen or saturated
When conditions allow:
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Use appropriate mortar mixes for colder weather
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Keep materials dry and protected
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Cover fresh brickwork at the end of each day
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Plan working hours around daylight and overnight temperatures
Done correctly, brickwork laid in winter is just as strong and long lasting as brickwork laid in summer.
Building an Extension During Winter
A lot of homeowners put off extensions until spring, but winter builds are far more common than people realise.
Cold weather doesn’t stop:
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Foundations being dug
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Brick and blockwork progressing
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Structural elements being installed
What it does change is how the job is managed. Pay close attention to:
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Ground conditions and frost depth
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Curing times for materials
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Weather forecasts day by day
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Protecting unfinished work overnight
In many cases, starting an extension in winter can actually help you get ahead and be ready to enjoy the space when warmer weather arrives.
Pouring Concrete Below 4°C
Concrete is the most sensitive part of winter construction. Pouring it incorrectly in cold conditions can cause serious problems later on.
When working in low temperatures, we:
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Never pour onto frozen ground
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Use concrete mixes suitable for colder weather
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Insulate formwork and freshly poured concrete
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Allow extra time for curing before loading or building on top
If freezing temperatures are unavoidable, concrete work is postponed, simple as that. Rushing this stage is never worth the risk.
What Happens When Cold Weather Rules Are Ignored?
We’re often called in to fix issues caused by winter work done badly. Common problems include:
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Mortar that crumbles away after a few months
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Concrete slabs cracking or sinking
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Brickwork failing inspection
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Costly remedial work that could have been avoided
Experience makes the difference, for more help with your project contact us today, on 0113 831 3645!
