How Long Should a Concrete Foundation Cure?

Identification

• Curing is process in which the proper moisture and temperature around the concrete help the mixture harden and strengthen. The chemical structure of concrete should dry slowly, otherwise the surface might become soft or possibly crack. Allowing the concrete to remain in the appropriate conditions for seven or more days will help increase the concrete's durability.

Cure Preparation

• Preparation for curing should begin immediately after pouring and smoothing the concrete, to keep the conditions around the concrete at the desirable level. The preparation process involves covering wet cement with plastic to hold in moisture, and in some cases pouring or sprinkling additional water onto the concrete. A temperature of approximately 50 degrees Fahrenheit is desirable for curing within the normal time frame.

Cure Time

• Concrete requires a total curing time of three to seven days, depending on the moisture and temperature conditions. In some cases, concrete flooded with water might cure faster than concrete only covered with plastic. The National Ready Mix Concrete Association recommends that the temperature doesn't drop more than 5 degrees Fahrenheit during the first 24 hours after pouring the concrete for proper curing. Temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit result in a longer curing time for the foundation, but you can combat this problem by placing an insulated covering over top of the freshly poured concrete.

Considerations

• Consider pouring a concrete foundation in the spring or fall when the temperature and moisture conditions are ideal for curing in the three- to seven-day period. If time allows, let the concrete cure for a minimum of seven days, under ideal conditions.