Essential precautions for storing cement during monsoon season

Proper cement storage during the monsoon season is critical to ensure the quality, performance, and durability of this essential construction material. Due to heavy rainfall and increased humidity, rains pose significant challenges to cement storage and preservation. If not stored properly, it can lead to lump formation, reduced strength, and even complete cement deterioration. This results in financial losses and delays in construction projects. Therefore, understanding the importance of proper cement storage during the monsoon becomes crucial for contractors, builders, and anyone involved in the construction industry. This article explores why proper cement storage during the monsoon is vital and discusses essential precautions to protect this valuable construction material from moisture-related damage.

Choosing the right storage area
The selection of a storage location depends on various factors, but here are two choices that offer optimal cement safeguarding during the monsoon season:

Sheltered storage area: Opting for a covered space provides protection from external elements, keeping the cement dry and shielded from rainwater, sunlight, extreme temperatures, dust, and pests.

Raised platforms: Elevated storage platforms create a gap between the cement stockpile and standing water, allowing for swift evaporation and natural airflow to dissipate excess moisture within the cement packaging. It is essential to ensure that the platform's base is robust enough to support the weight of the entire stockpile without any deformations or risk of collapse. Additionally, compliance with local regulations, permits, and zoning restrictions regarding height limitations and foundation stability criteria must be ensured.

Protecting cement from moisture
Tarpaulin/polyethylene sheet usage: Tightly wrap the bags with thick plastic sheets or tarpaulins before placing the cement on pallets. Ensure proper overlapping of the sheets to minimise leaks. Regularly check the covers to ensure they remain intact, replacing any torn or worn ones as soon as possible.

Selection of a dry Location: When utilising open storage areas, choose ground that slopes slightly away from the stockpiles. Look for locations that receive less precipitation due to the surrounding topography, foliage, or terrain features.

Monitor humidity levels: Use humidity sensors or hygrometers to monitor relative humidity within the storage area. If the humidity consistently exceeds the recommended levels, consider using desiccant packs or dehumidifiers to absorb excess moisture. You can use silica gel packs that can be placed near the cement bags to absorb moisture and maintain a dry environment.

Floor covering: Place wooden boards or hardboard panels directly on the soil surface underneath the storage area as they can absorb moisture from the ground and dissipate it more effectively than bare earth or gravel. Regularly inspect the floorboards for splits, signs of rot, or termite damage.

Proper Stacking: Arrange the rows or piles to encourage efficient circulation of dry air around each bag, reducing the chances of long-term absorption onto porous surfaces. Stack the bags loosely to promote intermixing and prevent excessive clumping.

Managing temperature fluctuations
Utilise insulation materials: Employ insulating blankets, such as foam or fibreglass, to create a barrier that protects stored cement from extreme temperature changes. For example, draping these blankets along walls exposed to strong winds can help maintain a stable environment. Additionally, consider using thermally resistant curtains or partitioning systems to isolate the cement storage area from the rest of the facility.

Control temperature inside storage areas: Install industrial fans to circulate air and maintain a consistent temperature throughout the storage space. During hot weather, fans can help dissipate heat and prevent cement overheating.

Stockpile management strategies: Implement a first-in, first-out (FIFO) approach to cement stockpiles. This means using the oldest batches first and rotating new deliveries to the back of the stockpile. For instance, if a new batch of cement arrives, it should be placed behind the existing stockpile to ensure proper utilisation.

Handling and transportation tips
To avoid water contact during transport: Cover pallets containing cement bags with heavy-duty plastic sheets to protect them from rain. Use open top containers instead of closed ones if possible. If not, make sure the container has adequate drainage.

For proper loading and unloading procedures: Lift cement bags gently using forklifts or cranes to avoid damaging the bags. Unload pallets carefully onto wooden skids to distribute weight evenly and support stacks.

To prevent bag damage and leakage: Ensure packaging meets industry standards for handling and transportation. Place two vertical and three horizontal reinforced belts around each pallet's perimeter as extra security to absorb jarring impacts experienced in transit. Make sure tie straps pass directly beneath the lower sack lifting slots. Wrap them snugly without creating undue tension that might eventually cause tears or ripping damage.

In addition to the tips listed above, it is important to communicate schedule changes caused by bad weather to subcontractors and vendors. Regularly inspect weatherproof coatings and membranes for potential reapplication, as they may experience wear and tear from repeated heating and cooling cycles.