Construction is an expensive affair right from the foundation to the finishing. For this reason, it is important that all aspects of the building are done to perfection to avoid unprecedented losses and costly repairs. Particularly, cracks are notorious for causing lots of damage to a building and you must prevent them at all costs. In most cases, the cracks result from improper curing from the time the concrete is laid out up to the time the building is ready for use. The following techniques will ensure proper curing for your concrete surfaces to prevent cracking:  

Chemical Membranes

Chemical membranes used to cure concrete are chemical compounds sprayed directly on the top surface of the concrete before it starts to dry. With time, the compounds form an impermeable surface that prevents the loss of moisture from the cementitious layer. By retaining moisture, the concrete cures slowly unlike a case where the surface is directly exposed to the sun and prone to evaporation. Notably, membrane-forming compounds eliminate the need to pour water on the concrete surface in the course of curing. It saves you the money you'd have used for to pay someone for watering the concrete every now and then.

Plastic Film Sheeting

Plastic film sheeting of concrete surfaces is another way of ensuring that it cures properly. The sheeting plays the same role as that played by a chemical membrane. It ensures gradual curing through the retention of moisture in the concrete layer. When using plastic sheeting, make sure that you cover the concrete surface as soon as possible without damaging the finish. Give the concrete a few hours before laying the sheeting over it. Ideally, plastic sheeting should not be used in places where the appearance of the concrete is important, considering the high likelihood of damaging the finish.

Elementary Water Retention Method

Elementary water retention methods are simple techniques where you improvise what is available to cover the surface of the concrete so that it can retain moisture. This method is handy when working on small projects and repairs that do not require expensive chemical and plastic sheeting. You can use sand, burlap, straw or canvas to cover the surface of the concrete. Remember to keep these materials throughout the curing period.

Water Curing

You can also cure the concrete using water. Here, you can pond the surface of the concrete by creating small puddles in sections where the water can be retained easily. If the temperatures are low, misting or fogging can be used to maintain humidity right above the surface of the concrete.