One of the most rewarding experiences in our profession is being able to look at a freshly poured and smoothly finished piece of concrete. No matter if we just completed a driveway, a patio, or a walkway, this shiny gray surface is a badge of honor when it means a project accomplished. Our team at Bill’s Custom Concrete is also highly skilled in retaining walls repair and installation, and other projects, to further enhance and protect your outdoor spaces. Unfortunately, this moment is bittersweet for our clients. They want to enjoy their outdoor space, but dread damaging it with one careless step.
We can see why you would want to test it with your feet to see if it will support your weight yet, but right now, your most important tool is time. How soon can you walk on concrete? Concrete does not work exactly like paint does in a drying sense. Some other materials may actually need time to dry, but when concrete curing takes place, a chemical reaction builds strength. Walking on it can leave dents.
The Critical First 24 to 48 hours
The first two days after you pour concrete are when it is most delicate. While in this setup stage, your concrete remains in a soft state, making it susceptible to pressure. Even if your concrete feels dry to the touch or if it is lighter in color, chances are it is still shifting and setting underneath.
It is highly recommended to keep all people, animals, and items away from the concrete for a period of no less than 24 to 48 hours. Also, if you have any pets such as dogs and cats, make sure they do not go outside without being harnessed because they can damage the surface with their claws. Additionally, if you have a busy neighborhood, consideration should be given to setting up caution tape barriers to prevent delivery people, for example, from entering your property.
When is Light Foot Traffic Acceptable?
Once you have gotten through this two-day mark, you can see a lessening of this anxiety, but do not think you are out of the woods yet. While this concrete is durable enough to withstand damage from a stray leaf or a rainstorm, it is not yet at full strength, so avoid the urge to walk on concrete too soon.
Generally, a wait time of three to seven days before allowing light foot traffic is recommended. Although you can walk on this concrete if you need to, it is recommended that you not twist your feet or jog on this surface during this time. While this time frame is primarily for walking on concrete safely, you are not to drag your patio furniture, roll your heavy trash bins, or ride your bicycles on this surface because this concrete is “green” and can scratch or chip easily.
Environmental Factors That Change the Timeline
The three to seven-day rule is a guideline, but your project may have a different time span depending on a variety of environmental elements. The main variable we are dealing with is the weather. For instance, if it is hot and dry, you will see your concrete drying faster because of evaporation. On the other hand, if it is cold, you will end up waiting a little bit longer before taking your first step.
The composition of the mix will also influence the timeline. Taking into consideration a mix with accelerators, it will set faster compared to a normal mix. However, another factor to put into consideration is the thickness of the slab. A thick driveway to support heavy machinery will take longer to achieve sufficient strength compared to a thinner sidewalk.
Speak with Your Concrete Experts for Customized Guidance
As you can see, there are a lot of variables at work in this process, from humidity to aggregate, so it is always advisable to check with us personally before using your new surface. Of course, we know exactly what went into your project and exactly what your local weather forecast will be.
Waiting a few extra days may not be very convenient, but it is a small price to pay for a surface which can last for decades. Waiting a few extra days to allow traffic on the concrete can make all of the difference in making your new surface one which remains smooth, strong, and lacks cracks. Should you ever have doubts in your mind regarding whether you can walk upon it or not, do not hesitate to give us a call!