Anchoring in Winter
The key issue is applying the grout -- whether it is cement or epoxy. In both cases the hardening of the grout requires a controlled ambient temperature. For water-based cement (such as our EPX2), the temperature should be above freezing, and the water temperature that is added to the grout powder, should be above 50F. There are, however, relatively simple steps you can take to get the curing process to start even if the mixture is already in the ground -- as long as it did not freeze yet. A simple one useful for our steel anchors (but not the plastic ones) is to apply a soldering torch about 12" above the head of the anchor. The heat is quickly distributed through the anchor's steel and the curing process starts immediately.
If you use epoxy as the grout, our EPX3 has a low temperature limit of 14 degrees F. We found that preheating the epoxy cartridges before application goes a long way to get the curing to start once the epoxy has been mixed.
If you have a large job with many anchors to install, use a small portable tent with heat lamps.
Remember that the alternative to using anchors is to cut out a large patch of asphalt and pour concrete. And that is not a viable option in freezing temperatures.
As always, search our FAQ and Library for tips and ideas how to install and use our anchors.
Anchoring to asphalt during cold winter months requires special measures -- not unlike how we work with concrete in the cold.