For large scale projects, such as buildings, concrete should last up to 100 years if properly cared for. Concrete projects that suffer the most wear and tear, such as sidewalks and driveways, have an expected lifespan of approximately half of the 50 years. Concrete is the best choice for driveways because, once properly cured, it can last up to 50 years. The key to taking advantage of nearly half a century of concrete use is to be patient at first and let it reach the hardness it needs.
You must keep everything away from concrete for 48 hours. After that, you can walk on it. Although most of the hydration process takes place in the hours and days immediately after pouring, concrete needs 28 days to completely dry. While the tile will harden and lighten in color within 28 days, don't be fooled into thinking it's already moisturizing.
If you plan to stain or paint concrete, doing so before the process is complete may cause changes in the color of the stain or the paint to peel off. Summary The curing time for concrete takes about 30 days to fully cure. Differences in climate, mixture and other elements may slightly change the curing period. The general rule for drying concrete is 30 days to dry for every inch of tile thickness.
Most new concrete spills can withstand foot traffic in approximately 24 hours. How long does it take for concrete to heal? You can apply a curing product, such as Quikrete Acrylic Concrete Cure & Seal, to the surface of the newly finished concrete to prevent the water inside from evaporating and causing the concrete to dry too quickly. Anything sensitive to moisture that is placed on concrete must have the remaining moisture below a certain threshold. Read on to learn how much time you have to pour and finish the concrete slab and what you can do during each stage to make your project a success.
You should protect yourself from the elements if you suspect it's raining (concrete blankets are good for this). For proper curing to occur, the general 28-day rule is typical of standard concrete, regardless of thickness, since adequate moisture retention promotes curing through the slab. The way in which concrete hardens is a function of the cement particles that react with the water with which it is mixed. Curing takes place for the rest of the concrete's lifespan, so while concrete can dry or cure sufficiently for normal pedestrian and vehicle traffic in just a few hours, it will heal forever.
If you've ever wondered why concrete grows stronger over time or why it can be poured underwater, it's because concrete doesn't dry out, but rather cures. However, it is important that the proportion of concrete is correct to ensure a proper curing and hardening process. Reasonable air temperatures and relative humidity in the environment are more compatible with the drying of concrete. You might think it's strong enough after taking a test ride on it, but overloading the concrete before it's fully cured could undo all the hard work you've put into building it.
I can't say for sure, but my best guess, based on the information you provided, is that the concrete hasn't had enough time to dry. The concrete must be solid enough to walk on it, leaving no traces, after 24 to 48 hours.
