Why You Should Water (Cure) Your Concrete
1. Curing Strengthens Concrete
Concrete doesn’t dry — it hardens through a chemical reaction called hydration (cement + water = strength). If the surface dries out too fast:
- Hydration stops prematurely.
- The concrete will be weaker and more prone to cracking.
Watering helps hydration continue, allowing the concrete to reach its maximum strength (which can be 3,000–5,000 psi or more).
How to Water Concrete Properly
✅ Best Practices:
- Start watering 6–12 hours after pouring, once the surface can’t be damaged by touch.
- Keep it moist for at least 7 days (28 days is ideal for full strength).
- Use a fine spray, soaker hose, or wet burlap/tarpaulin to maintain moisture.
- Don’t flood it — just keep the surface damp.