Concrete Curing

Water is important to concrete.  This article will explain why it is necessary to spray down your concrete after it has been laid.

Concrete hardens through the hydration process.  It takes a lot longer than one thinks for concrete to full harden and dry.  A chemical reaction is at the root of a good concrete surface.  Some contractors like to use a curing compound.  Most curing compounds are a latex base formula that is sprayed on top of a newly poured and finished concrete slab.  It seals the concrete slab and keeps water inside the concrete slab so that it doesn’t cure too quickly.  Another option is to water your concrete down, especially after a hot day and after it has set up and cured on the surface.   Applying water with a regular garden hose and spray nozzle prevents the underlying concrete from curing to quickly by keeping the concrete cool when the water seeps into the concrete and slows the hydration process.  The result is stronger concrete. 

It is a good idea to continue to water down your slab for several days after you pour your new concrete.  Since humidity and climate vary in parts of the country, it is especially important to water fresh concrete in dryer climates.