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You can typically walk on new concrete within 24-48 hours and drive on it after 7 to 10 days, depending on the temperature–7 days during hot summer months and 10 days in milder spring and fall conditions. For heavy traffic areas, such as dump trucks or semi-trailers, you should wait 14 days.

Curing is essential in concrete construction, improving strength and durability by maintaining adequate moisture and temperature for hydration, which is the reaction between cement and water. The curing period lasts 5 to 7 days, during which the surface must remain moist–to facilitate the hydration process–through methods such as soaking hoses, sprinklers, wet burlap, or curing compounds. Full curing takes 28 days.

Cracking is common in concrete during the first 30 days of curing. If done correctly under ideal conditions, cracks may be nearly invisible. Cracks typically result from shrinkage as excess water evaporates and concrete hardens, and can also occur if the concrete dries too quickly. Weather factors, including extreme temperatures and moisture levels, also significantly impact the curing process.

Seal new concrete within one year of pouring to effectively protect it. The built-in sealant in the mix only safeguards the concrete during the 28-day curing period, while additional sealant can be applied 45 days after pouring. For new stamped or decorative concrete, sealing should occur 14 days after pouring.

To protect concrete, apply sealant and establish a regular care/maintenance program. Ensure surrounding areas are properly filled with soil or gravel to prevent moisture from seeping underneath and to enhance drainage; exposed edges can weaken the structure and lead to cracking or chipping. It is also beneficial to plant grass for improved drainage. In icy conditions, use sand instead of salt to avoid damage.

Color variation can occur if separate batches of concrete are used, common in larger projects needing multiple trucks or split pours due to weather/other factors. No batches of concrete will be the exact same after initial drying, but after 45 days, the differences should lessen as the concrete fully cures and bleaches out.

To remove stains from concrete, common dry methods include sandblasting, flame cleaning, shotblasting, grinding, scabbing, planing, and scouring. Use steel-wire brushes with caution, as they can leave metal particles that may rust and stain the surface. Wet methods involve applying water or specific chemicals based on the type of stain–these treatments either dissolve the stain for easy removal or bleach it so it can’t be seen.