Why is proper curing of concrete so important?
Because water is essential for the hydration of cement in concrete, curing is the single most important action that a contractor or home owner can take to prolong the life of a concrete structure. Curing significantly impacts long term concrete properties including: durability, strength, surface integrity, watertightness, and resistance to freezing and thawing and deicer salts. In addition, proper curing can prevent common surface defects such as: dusting, plastic shrinkage cracking, and crazing or pattern cracking.