The plastic shrinkage cracks will appear in the first few hours of the slab’s life. These cracks are either irregular in shape and appear as tears in the concrete, or they are extremely regular in that they follow the outline of the mesh and other reinforcing.

Factors which can lead to plastic cracking:

• Warm wind
• Warm concrete
• Low humidity
• Low bleed concrete
• Exposed sites
• Broom finishes

How can I recognise the conditions likely to lead to plastic cracking?

As a general rule: If it is good weather to hang out washing to dry it is ideal weather for plastic cracking to occur as well.

How to minimise the risk of plastic shrinkage cracking?

• Do not place concrete when the weather conditions are too severe for you to control the evaporation rates of water from your concrete. This means that in high winds and warm temperatures, the pour should be delayed unless you can protect the slab accordingly.
• Moisten the sub-grade and forms prior to starting the pour.
• Use polypropylene fibres in your mix.
• Use an anti-evaporative spray to prevent excessive water loss from the slabCover the concrete with polythene or membrane cure immediately after finishing.

Allied Concrete staff are more than happy to help you with any problems or enquiries.

For more information or assistance, please don’t hesitate to call. Your call will be automatically connected to our nearest plant. (Calls from mobile phones will be directed for Auckland or Christchurch.)

DISCLAIMER: Allied Concrete has endeavoured to present the best possible information. However we accept no responsibility for the application of the principles discussed.