What happens if you walk on concrete too soon?

If you drive, walk, or park on your new concrete any sooner than the recommended time, here’s what may happen: It may crack. You may leave tire tracks or footprints in the concrete, which could also ruin your shoes. You might weaken the future strength of the concrete.

How long can you work with concrete before it sets?

In standard industrial cases, full strength concrete is recognized at 28 days. At seven days, you should have concrete that is cured to 70\% full strength or greater. But to answer the question of, “How long does concrete take to set?” concrete setting time is generally 24 to 48 hours.

When can you put handprints in concrete?

It’s best to stamp your handprints as soon as the concrete stiffens and while it’s still malleable enough to level with a trowel if you make a mistake.

How long does it take for concrete to be ready to walk?

It takes 24 to 48 hours for concrete to be strong enough to walk on. 48 hours is only true if you are walking a dog, are over 350 pounds, or if you poured your concrete on a wet day. Within the first day of curing, it’s best to limit your walking to light strolls.

How long should I wait to pour cement after finishing concrete?

Theoratically you should wait 10 hours after the placing and compaction. But this time can be reduced using quick setting cement in the concrete. We suggest you wait at least 24 hours after the concrete has been finished. For stamped and decorative finishes this time frame will likely increase.

How long does rain damage concrete?

Rain will not damage concrete if it’s four to eight hours after being poured. Prior to that, the damage may include pitting and pooling. It takes 24 to 48 hours for concrete to be strong enough to walk on. 48 hours is only true if you are walking a dog, are over 350 pounds, or if you poured your concrete on a wet day.

How long does it take to pour a concrete slab?

After about 2 hours of starting to pour, which means, after about 90 minutes of you finish the slab surface with trowel, you can start walking on it, but this is just the initial setting time.