10 tips to build a better concrete footpath

Water is essential for the chemical process that makes concrete harden – the longer concrete stays damp, the harder and stronger it gets. One way to slow down drying is to cover concrete with 4-mil plastic sheeting. When concrete is hard enough so you can’t make an impression with your finger, gently spread the plastic. Stretch it out to eliminate wrinkles and weigh down the edges to seal in moisture.

When you see signs of drying, lift the plastic and gently sprinkle on more water. Keep a footpath or patio damp for three days. Seven days is best for a driveway. Plastic can cause mottled colouring on concrete, but the splotches disappear in a month or two.

Pros often skip the plastic and spray on a waxy liquid “curing compound” to slow down evaporation. Though not as effective as plastic, curing compounds are easy to apply with a garden sprayer. Curing compounds are available at home centres.

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Source: Family Handyman