Wolter Reinold de Sitter, part-time Professor in the design of structures in concrete at the Eindhoven University of Technology, proposed a Law of Fives for structural concrete maintenance. There are various English versions extant, but fundamentally the Law reads as follows:
The life of a concrete structure, with respect to durability, can be divided into four phases:
- Phase A: Design, construction and concrete curing
- Phase B: Corrosion initiation processes are underway, but the propagation of damage has not yet begun
- Phase C: Propagating deterioration has just begun
- Phase D: Propagation of corrosion is advanced, with extensive damage manifesting
$1 extra spent at Phase A is equivalent to saving $5 at Phase B, $25 at Phase C, or $125 at Phase D.
Now think about that – a little extra investment at the design, construction and curing phase will reduce long-term expenses. There’s a catch here: are all the parties involved in Phase A genuinely interested in the structure’s survival at Phase D? If short-term cost-saving or time-saving is a primary motivation when the structure is being built, long-term durability will inevitably suffer.
So – is there some small investment we can make at the construction Phase which will greatly benefit the long-term durability?
The Importance of Good Concrete Curing
There’s one key thing that MARKHAM can assist with, and that’s the curing process. Improved curing quality will drive improved strength, impermeability and long-term durability.
- Improve hydration
- Reduce shrinkage cracking
- Reduce concrete dusting
These things affect the long-term service life of the concrete. Yes, the quality of the curing has an impact on the lifespan of the concrete.
Meet CONQOR CURE!
CONQOR CURE is suitable for curing all freshly laid concrete, either smooth or textured, indoors or outdoors.
CONQOR CURE does not need to be removed later in the project.
CONQOR CURE is fully compatible with any following coatings or flooring.
Independent testing by Cement Australia confirms CONQOR CURE delivers curing performance equivalent to both water curing and an AS3799 film‑forming membrane, across strength development, temperature, internal RH, and chloride resistance (ASTM C1202).
And yes, CONQOR CURE is available in bulk, for convenience and cost savings.
Did we mention nil-VOC and easy to apply?
We’re keen to talk to you about your concrete projects – why not get in touch?
For an in-depth conversation on this topic, try our on-demand webinar “Curing for Today and Tomorrow“.
