When do wall forms for concrete typically experience more failures due to lateral pressures?

Wall forms for concrete are more susceptible to failure due to lateral pressures during the summer months. This is primarily because high temperatures can lead to increased evaporation rates of moisture from the concrete. When concrete cures, proper hydration is essential for achieving the desired structural integrity.

In the summer, the risk of rapid curing due to heat can cause the concrete to set too quickly if not adequately managed. This quick setting may not allow for even distribution of the pressures within the forms, leading to an imbalance. Additionally, as the concrete begins to cure and harden, the lateral pressure from the wet concrete can be significantly higher if the mixture is not handled correctly. The combination of increased temperature, evaporation, and potential temperature fluctuations can, therefore, contribute to greater risks of form failure.

Other seasons, such as winter, spring, or fall, typically experience milder temperatures, which may reduce the risk of rapid evaporation and temperature-related issues, making failures due to lateral pressures less likely compared to summer conditions. Even though there can be challenges in other seasons, the intense heat and drying effects of summer create particularly challenging conditions for formwork and concrete integrity.