In winter, dry mortars must primarily be protected from moisture, and ready-to-use masses stored under the conditions specified for the particular product. There is no single temperature range for all refractory materials. The resistance of the joint after hardening does not describe the resistance of the package to frost during storage.
Dry mix: watch the bag and the floor
Store bags in a dry place, separated from moist floors. After opening, protect the material from moisture and keep the label legible. Hard lumps may indicate a change in the state of the product. Breaking up the lumps does not confirm the restoration of its original properties.
Refractory concrete Vitcas is an example of a material whose preparation and storage should be checked in the appropriate datasheet. Do not add uncertain material to a new batch just because the package is still full.
Ready mix: check frost protection requirements
Ready-made cement or adhesive may have different storage rules than dry powder. Read the temperature, sealing, and shelf life requirements for BLACK Fire Cement or the used BA adhesive. If the product requires protection against freezing, do not leave it overnight in an unheated car.
Freezing, separation, or a damaged lid requires checking the product's suitability with the supplier. Do not assume that simply heating the container will solve the problem. Keep information about the batch and purchase date; it will help in assessing the material.
Short checklist before use
- Check the expiration date and condition of the packaging.
- Read the permitted storage and application temperature.
- Record the opening date if it affects the storage time.
- Prepare appropriate conditions for the material and the substrate being repaired.
Moving the bag to a warm room does not immediately mean that the cold wall is suitable for gluing. The conditions of the fresh joint must also comply with the instructions. For small repairs, choose an amount appropriate to the task so as not to keep an unnecessarily opened product for a long time.