Installation Instructions
CONCRETE BLOCK
by
Curing is one of the most important steps in concrete
construction. Proper curing increases the strength and
durability of concrete, and a poor curing job can ruin an
otherwise well-done project. Proper water content and
temperature are essential for good curing. In near freezing
temperatures, the hydration process slows considerably.
When weather is too hot, dry, or windy, water is lost by
evaporation from the concrete and hydration stops,
resulting in nishing diculties and cracks. The ideal
circumstances for curing are ample moisture and moderate
temperature and wind conditions. Curing should be started
as soon as possible and should continue for a period of 5
days in warm weather at 70 degrees F (21 degrees C) or
higher or 7 days in cool weather at 50 – 70 degrees (10 –
21 degrees C) or cooler. Protect concrete from freezing for
at least 48 hours. Plastic sheeting and insulation blankets
should be used if temperatures are expected to fall below
32 degrees F (0 degrees C).
Curing Information
Warranty
Midwest Manufacturing guarantees this product against
manufacturing defects when used according to the
instructions provided. This guarantee will be honored
with proof of purchase. Midwest Manufacturing does not
guarantee this product if used for any purpose other than
the general purpose for which it is intended. Midwest
Manufacturing’s obligation is limited to replacement of
defective product only. Midwest Manufacturing will not be
responsible for lost time, replacement labor, nor any other
commensurate costs associated with replacement.
Any standard concrete nishing technique is acceptable
for use. Concrete can be hand troweled, power troweled,
broom nished or nished with specialty nishes.
Finishing
Curing Methods
• Other methods of providing proper curing include
covering the surface with wet burlap, keeping the
surface wet with a lawn sprinkler and covering the
surface with plastic sheeting or waterproof paper to
prevent moisture loss.
• If burlap is used, it should be free of chemicals that
could weaken or discolor the concrete. New burlap
should be washed before use. Place it when the
concrete is hard enough to withstand surface damage
and sprinkle it periodically to keep the concrete surface
continuously moist.
• Water curing with lawn sprinklers, nozzles or soaking
hoses must be continuous to prevent interruption of
the curing process.
• Curing with plastic sheets is convenient. They must
be laid at, thoroughly sealed at joints, and anchored
carefully along edges.
Application
Method for Pouring a Slab
Note- For best results, do not overwork the material.
• Dampen the subgrade before concrete is placed.
• Do not leave standing puddles.
• Shovel or place concrete into the form; ll full depth of
the form
• After concrete has been compacted and spread to
completely ll the forms without air pockets, strike o
and oat immediately.
• To strike o, use a straight board (screed), moving the
edge back and forth with a saw-like motion to smooth
the surface.
• Use a darby or bull oat to oat the surface; this levels
any ridges and lls voids left by the straight edge.
• Cut the concrete away from the forms by running an
edging tool or trowel along the forms to compact the
slab edges.
• Cut 1" (25.4 mm) deep control joints into the slab every
6' – 8' (1.8 – 2.4 m) using a grooving tool.
• Allow concrete to stien slightly, waiting until all
surface water has evaporated before troweling or
applying a broom nish.