"Caltrans Concrete Curing Methods and Periods" is lesson 7 of 7 in the Concrete (C-8) Learning Hub. It opens with "Four Methods, One Rule: Never Let It Dry Early" and works through 5 short steps, then a worked example you can check yourself against.
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Steps in this lesson
Four Methods, One Rule: Never Let It Dry Early
Water Method
Curing Compound Method
Applying the Compound
Waterproof Membrane and Forms in Place
The worked example in the course applies this lesson to a realistic job in 6 steps, from "Acceptable average rate" through "Containers".
What you'll be able to do
Explain the main idea of "Caltrans Concrete Curing Methods and Periods" in plain language you can use on the exam.
Apply this step with confidence: "Curing Compound Method".
Apply this step with confidence: "Applying the Compound".
Apply this step with confidence: "Waterproof Membrane and Forms in Place".
Test yourself on the worked example and the quick-check quiz inside the classroom.
The diagram for this lesson, exactly as it appears in the Learning Hub.
The first steps of this lesson
Step 1: Four Methods, One Rule: Never Let It Dry Early
2025 Caltrans Standard Specifications 90-1.03B(1): unless otherwise specified, cure newly placed concrete by one of the methods in the section: water, curing compound, waterproof membrane, or forms in place. Mortar and grout are cured by keeping the surface damp for 3 days. Section 90-1.03C adds that you protect the concrete from damage by rain, heat, cold and wind, and never place on frozen or ice-coated ground, forms or reinforcing; in rain you must protect the surface or stop placing.
Step 2: Water Method
90-1.03B(2): keep the concrete continuously wet for at least 7 days after placing. Use an atomizing nozzle that makes a mist until the surface is covered with curing media, and never let water flow over or wash the surface. Media can be mats, rugs or carpets; earth or sand blankets; or sheeting that meets section 5 of ASTM C171 as the spec names it. Cover the whole surface, secure the joints in the media, and keep the media within 3 inches of the concrete at every point. Monitor surface temperature and keep it at 140 degrees F or below; if it goes over, find the cause and give the Engineer an alternative method for authorization.
The remaining 3 steps, the worked example and the quiz are in the course. This is a preview. The full lesson, with the step-by-step explanations, a worked example and a quick-check quiz, is inside the classroom.
Independent exam preparation. Contractors Classroom is not affiliated with the Contractors State License Board, and no course can guarantee a passing result.
