Michigan Residential Builders License Practice Test

At what temperature should concrete be maintained for 5 days in cold weather conditions?

1. 32 degrees

2. 40 degrees

3. 50 degrees

4. 60 degrees

The correct answer is: 50 degrees

Maintaining concrete at an appropriate temperature during the curing process is crucial, especially in cold weather conditions. The selected answer, which is 50 degrees Fahrenheit, is significant because concrete gains strength through a process of hydration that is influenced by temperature. In cold weather, temperatures below 50 degrees can slow down or even halt the curing process, leading to incomplete hydration and potentially compromising the structural integrity of the concrete. The recommendation to maintain a minimum temperature of 50 degrees for at least five days helps ensure that the concrete cures properly, achieving the necessary strength and durability. This temperature is a common industry standard to facilitate effective curing, and it strikes a balance that supports the hydration reaction without exposing the concrete to conditions that could lead to freezing or freezing/thawing cycles. In contrast, maintaining concrete at lower temperatures, such as 32 degrees or 40 degrees, may not provide sufficient warmth to support the curing process, thus increasing the risk of problems both during and after the setting phase.