How to: Cure Time of Cement

Cure the cement for at least three days. Cement and concrete continue to strengthen during the first three to seven days after pouring. At the end of three days of curing time, the cement has achieved approximately 80 percent of its strength. The exact length of curing time your project needs will depend upon the curing method you employ.

Allow three to seven days of curing time for cement that is water cured. By building berms around the cement slab, you can flood the surface of the cement and keep it wet without the water flowing away. Keep the surface of the cement flooded for seven days for maximum strength. Then break the berm to release the water and allow the cement to dry thoroughly.

Keep water retaining materials damp for three to seven days when using the water retention method. Cover the cement slab completely with burlap, straw or canvas. During the curing period, moisten the water retaining materials periodically. The materials need to remain damp during the entire curing period, to avoid excess evaporation.

Utilize a cure and seal product to cure cement quickly. These products, made by various manufacturers, are rolled onto the cement slab with a short-nap paint roller 24 hours after pouring. One thin coat of the cure and seal product is usually sufficient, but you may add a second coat for additional shine. Three or more coats is not recommended. The cure and seal products are typically safe to walk on in two to four hours, and the cement is completely cured in 24 hours.

Allow 30 days for the cement to cure properly if you are using the air dry method. When air drying cement, you do not apply any cure and seal products or water to the slab. You simply allow the cement to remain uncovered and exposed to the elements. It is particularly important to have a clear forecast for at least three to five days when pouring cement that you are going to air dry. Exposure to water after the curing process has begun may cause cracking.