Q: How long should I cover a new concrete slab for it to cure properly?
A: The longer concrete stays damp after it’s poured, the stronger it will be. Cover it with plastic or damp cardboard for a minimum of three days. A week is even better. For large slabs there is even some benefit at 28 days. In dry weather, mist the concrete surface several times a day and keep it covered to retain the moisture. If you’ve added pigment to the concrete, then apply a curing compound, which helps to prevent stains that appear when tinted concrete dries unevenly.