I did a search and could not find my answer. So I apologize if this has been asked before. I understand that a moisture test needs to be done before any coating application, but does anyone have a idea about how long I need to wait after a new concrete pour? I'm about 5 inches all around with 6sac. Average temp at this time of year is 40 during the day, 30 at night. Also, how long would you guys wait to install a 10k lift. The pour is about 10" where the posts will be located. (I know, crazy excessive. Just didn't want any issues.)
Concrete drying time
- Thread starter TAZracing
- Start date
Answer should be in the instructions for your coating.
Epoxy-Coat says minimum 30 days curing time for new concrete. Still have to clean and prep the surface for the coating (just shouldn't have to degrease new concrete compared to old oily/greasy concrete).
http://www.epoxy-coat.com/frequently_asked.php
btw, the "28 days" curing time for concrete is the 'standard' for the concrete to meet it's stated strength. Most concrete is still curing and gaining strength for years though, but 28 days is the accepted 'norm' for the strength spec.
General steps: Check moisture in the slab, remove any possible curing compounds used, remove surface 'dust', etch concrete for proper adhesion (chemical/acid or mechanical methods), wash, rinse, dry, coat per directions.
Epoxy-Coat says minimum 30 days curing time for new concrete. Still have to clean and prep the surface for the coating (just shouldn't have to degrease new concrete compared to old oily/greasy concrete).
http://www.epoxy-coat.com/frequently_asked.php
btw, the "28 days" curing time for concrete is the 'standard' for the concrete to meet it's stated strength. Most concrete is still curing and gaining strength for years though, but 28 days is the accepted 'norm' for the strength spec.
General steps: Check moisture in the slab, remove any possible curing compounds used, remove surface 'dust', etch concrete for proper adhesion (chemical/acid or mechanical methods), wash, rinse, dry, coat per directions.
http://www.murraydecorative.com/mdc_faqs.php
Alot of reading, but very informative and great guidlines for a great outcome.
Alot of reading, but very informative and great guidlines for a great outcome.
pauls340
Well-known member
I present an AIA LEED presentation to architects and engineers on Solving the Moisture Issue in Concrete. After each presentation I try to seek-out the senior engineer and ask them where the 28 days came from. I know it's part ACI & ASTM background, but where exactly. IMO, it's a safe amount of time to take some of the liability away from the mfg's. Under ideal conditions, ie; once the windows are in and the HVAC is turned on, concrete takes 40 days per inch to dry. And yes, NO construction schedule can wait 160 days. Put Vapor Lock 20/20 into that concrete and try to get a moisture read after three weeks. 
We've glued carpeting down on concrete in 17 days. Have you placed your concrete yet?
We've glued carpeting down on concrete in 17 days. Have you placed your concrete yet?
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I present an AIA LEED presentation to architects and engineers on Solving the Moisture Issue in Concrete. After each presentation I try to seek-out the senior engineer and ask them where the 28 days came from. I know it's part ACI & ASTM background, but where exactly. IMO, it's a safe amount of time to take some of the liability away from the mfg's. Under ideal conditions, ie; once the windows are in and the HVAC is turned on, concrete takes 40 days per inch to dry. And yes, NO construction schedule can wait 160 days. Put Vapor Lock 20/20 into that concrete and try to get a moisture read after three weeks.
Yes, I did; 3 weeks ago. I did however, lay a 10mil moisture barrier down prior to the pour. I can still see dark areas on the floor. I will probably wait til mid summer just to be safe.
LegacyIndustrial
ALLIANCE MEMBER
60 days. If it pops the coating manufacturer will assume no responsibility so take your time if you can.
pauls340
Well-known member
Taz, good move on the moisture barrier. I assumed my concrete guy would put it down and when I look back at the pics....he didn't, however I did spray-on two light coats of Vapor Lock 5/5 four hours after the pour. Zero moisture on the surface of the floor.
pauls340 what do you think about this article:
http://www.murraydecorative.com/pdfs/Moisture_Issues_in_Concrete_Floors.pdf
http://www.murraydecorative.com/pdfs/Moisture_Issues_in_Concrete_Floors.pdf
28 days is simply the maximum duration for concrete to reach design strength. It does not mean that the hydration process is complete at 28 days. How much and how long moisture continues to be release from concrete depends on a lot of things, not the least of which is its initial mix design, how it was cured and environmental conditions during and after it is placed.
markwright247
Active member
- Joined
- Jun 11, 2012
- Messages
- 28
It also depends on the temperature also, like if it is hot days it dries fast.