Curing

Curing is the process of maintaining adequate moisture and temperature in freshly placed concrete so the cement can continue hydrating and the slab or element can reach its designed strength — typically over the first 7 to 28 days after placement.

Common curing methods include water misting, wet burlap, plastic sheeting, and sprayed-on curing compounds. Concrete that dries out too quickly during curing is prone to surface cracking and reduced long-term strength.