Curing and protection

Curing is essential to ensure that the concrete achieves its highest potential strength and optimum durability. Fresh concrete should not be allowed to dry out too quickly, therefore curing should commence as soon as possible after pouring to reduce the chances of plastic shrinkage.

The following methods of curing conventional concrete are recommended:

- Polythene

- Hessian

- Spray-on membranes

POINTS TO REMEMBER

- Methods of placing and compacting the concrete should be organised before supply.

- The consistence of fresh concrete should be suitable for ease of handling and placing

- Low temperatures can have a detrimental effect on fresh concrete, laying concrete at temperatures below 5 degrees should be avoided

- Unnecessary water addition on site should be avoided