Properly Curing Concrete Slabs

Why cure concrete. Curing serves two main purposes.

It retains moisture in the slab so that the concrete continues to gain strength
It delays drying shrinkage until the concrete is strong enough to resist shrinkage cracking.

Properly curing concrete improves strength, durability, water tightness, and wear resistance.

How to cure concrete.

Water cure:
The concrete is flooded, ponded, or mist sprayed. This is the most effective curing method for preventing mix water evaporation. Make sure you allow proper time for water curing.
Water retaining methods:
Use coverings such as sand, canvas, burlap, or straw that are kept continuously wet. The material used must be kept damp during the curing period.
Waterproof paper or plastic film seal:
Are applied as soon as the concrete is hard enough to resist surface damage. Plastic films may cause discoloration of the concrete-do not apply to concrete where appearance is important.
Chemical Membranes:
The chemical application should be made as soon as the concrete is finished. Note that curing compounds can effect adherence of resilient flooring, your flooring contractor and/or chemical membrane manufacturer should be consulted.