A number of methods can be used to reduce the amount of actual creep displayed by tray floors.

(i) One of the most effective ways of reducing creep is to delay the application of load, so that hydration in the concrete can progress to a greater extent. Concrete loaded at one day instead of 28 days can       increase creep by 80% for ordinary portland cement.

(ii) Creep is increased when cycles of wetting and drying occur. Ensuring that a stable moisture condition exists will help minimize creep effects.

(iii) Inclusion of calcium chloride as an admixture can lead to doubling of creep. Calcium chloride is promoted on the grounds that accelerated setting and hardening of the concrete takes places before the concrete dries out. Therefore the use of calcium chloride either on its own or as part of an admixture is not recommended.

(iv) Pozzolan’s increase creep significantly and should be avoided.