Why is curing important for freshly placed concrete?

Curing is a critical process for freshly placed concrete primarily because it allows the concrete to achieve its designed strength and durability. When concrete is poured, it undergoes a chemical reaction known as hydration, where water reacts with cement to form strong bonds. This process is most effective when the concrete remains moist and at a suitable temperature.

By maintaining adequate moisture during the curing phase, typically for a minimum of seven days, the hydration process can continue, leading to the development of the desired compressive strength. Insufficient curing can result in incomplete hydration, which may cause the concrete to be weaker than designed and more susceptible to wear and cracking over time. This strength is essential not only for the structural integrity of the concrete but also for its durability against environmental factors.

While reducing surface cracking, enhancing color and finish, and speeding up the construction schedule are important aspects of concrete work, they are secondary to the fundamental role that curing plays in achieving the concrete's full potential in terms of strength and longevity.