Concrete
Curing
Maintaining adequate moisture and temperature in fresh concrete to ensure complete hydration and proper strength gain over time.
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In the Field
Curing is the most neglected step in concrete work. Plastic sheeting, curing compounds, and wet burlap all work. In hot weather, start curing immediately — even 30 minutes of surface drying can cause plastic shrinkage cracks.
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Rule of Thumb
Concrete gains about 70% of its 28-day strength in the first 7 days if properly cured. Minimum curing period is 7 days for most structural applications.