Decorative Concrete Curing Schedule
Forecast the cure milestones for decorative concrete by combining slab thickness with ambient temperature, humidity, and any accelerating admixtures.
Reference only—follow engineer and product manufacturer instructions before putting decorative slabs into service.
Examples
- 10 cm slab at 22 °C, 55% RH, no accelerator ⇒ Light traffic in 24.2 hours; sealing after 7.0 days
- 11 cm slab at 30 °C, 40% RH, 5% accelerator ⇒ Heavy work in 48.7 hours; ~80% strength after 9.9 days
FAQ
Does slab thickness change the schedule?
Yes—thicker placements retain heat longer and need additional hours before supporting loads or sealing compared with thin overlays.
How should I treat nighttime temperature drops?
Use the coolest expected average in the calculator and add insulation or curing blankets if nightly temperatures fall below 10 °C.
Can I model high-strength mixes?
Enter the accelerator percentage or rerun the calculation with slightly lower slab thickness to mimic mixes that reach strength faster.
When is full structural strength achieved?
The tool estimates ~80% strength; confirm final strength with cylinder breaks or manufacturer specs if you need structural acceptance.
Additional Information
- Results assume proper curing practices (moisture retention or curing compounds) during the initial 72 hours.
- Cooler temperatures or higher humidity slow hydration, while accelerators or thinner toppings shorten wait times.
- Heavy equipment timing bundles grinding, polishing, or vehicle loading; sealing time assumes breathable acrylic or polyurethane sealers.