How long does it take for cement to dry? The answer depends on several factors, such as weather conditions, how the cement is mixed, and the quality of the mix.
Building or renovating a house requires various materials and processes, one of which is the use of cement. Cement is an important material for bonding bricks, making foundations, and various other construction purposes.
However, before being used, cement needs to dry first. Let's look at the following article to find out how long it takes for cement to dry.
How Long Does It Take for Cement to Dry?
Building or renovating a house requires various materials and processes, one of which is cement. Cement helps bond bricks, make foundations, and fulfill other construction purposes. However, before being used properly, cement needs to dry first.
Knowing how long it takes for cement to dry can ease the construction process. Generally, cement mix takes 6–7 hours to dry. However, cement drying times vary depending on several factors, such as weather conditions and mixing methods.
What Makes Cement Dry Faster
Knowing how long cement takes to dry is very important in the building construction process. Here are some main factors that influence how long cement takes to dry.
1. Weather
One factor that influences how long it takes for cement to dry is weather conditions. Different weather can affect the cement drying times. When the weather is sunny and hot, the cement can dry approximately in less than 6 hours. However, if the weather is cloudy or rainy, the drying time will be longer, which is around 9–11 hours.
2. Initial and Final Setting Time
Another factor that influences how long it takes for cement to dry is the initial and final setting time. Initial setting time is the time it takes for cement powder to mix with other materials, such as water and sand. Typically, the initial bonding time takes about 45 minutes.
Meanwhile, the final setting time refers to how long it takes for the cement mixture to harden or dry in a plastic condition. This final binding takes about 6–7 hours. So, the total cement drying time from the initial to the final setting time is around 7-8 hours.
Read also: 5 Proper Ways of Storing Cement to Maintain Its Quality
3. Cement Quality
Lastly, most people think that the quality can affect how long it takes for cement to dry. This is not true. It is the cement hydration reaction that determines the hardening process. Therefore, cement quality has no direct relationship with its drying time.
However, the quality of the cement does affect the quality of the building. Low-quality cement can produce a high hydration reaction, increasing the temperatures and cracks in the wall or floor plaster in the long term.
How to Make Cement Dry Quickly
Increasing the speed of cement drying affects the progress of the construction project. Cement that dries quickly will speed up construction time, produce a sturdier structure, and reduce the risk of cracks in the building. Here are some tips that you can apply to speed up cement drying time:
1. Choose the Right Time to Build or Renovate
Choosing the right time to build or renovate may impact the cement drying time. Even though the weather is often uncertain, you can rely on the general weather predictions in Indonesia.
The rainy season in Indonesia generally occurs in the October–April period. It is best to avoid construction or renovation during this period because high air humidity can slow the cement drying process.
The best time to build or renovate is between May and September when the weather is hot and sunny. The peak of summer usually occurs between May and August, so during this period, the cement will dry more quickly.
2. Choose Dense and High Adhesive Cement
Choosing the right cement with high adhesion and density is one of the most important tips for speeding up the cement drying process. Choose cement that produces a denser mixture and has high adhesion.
Such quality will speed up the drying process because the water is bound tightly and evaporates more quickly. Before buying cement, do a pressure test to ensure the quality of the cement you choose. Good-quality cement will have high compression test results.
Read also: 2 Easy Cement Wall Finishing Techniques
3. Choose Cement That Doesn't Easily Clump
Clumping cement can hinder the drying process and reduce the quality of the building. The clumping is often caused by storing the cement too long. Lumps in cement can potentially cause the bindings to become unstable and crack because the cement mixture is not properly mixed.
Such a case can slow the drying process and result in a weak building structure. Therefore, it is very important to choose cement that does not clump when you purchase it.
4. Understand Cement Types
The type of cement you choose will affect how long it takes to dry. Here are some types of commonly used cement:
- Gray cement: The most commonly used type of cement and is economical and suitable for various types of construction.
- White cement: This type of cement is used to make paint and reduce paint use. It tends to be more expensive than gray cement.
- Mortar cement: This type of cement, also known as instant cement, is made from special materials that speed up the drying process, making it practical and easy to use.
Characteristics of High-Quality Cement
High-quality cement produces a strong bond, reduces the risk of cracking, and extends the life of the building. Here are some characteristics of quality cement that you need to pay attention to:
- Properly closed packaging: Make sure the cement packaging is tightly closed. The reason is that cement exposed to air for a long time has a low quality.
- Non-clumping cement: Make sure the cement you choose does not clump by checking it before purchasing. Lumps in cement can make the plaster of floors or walls less strong because the cement mixture is not mixed properly.
- Pay attention to the cement pile: Pay attention to the cement pile so that it does not exceed two meters in height and is in direct contact with the floor before buying it. You can use wooden pads so that the cement pile does not come into direct contact with the floor surface.
- The dense mixture: The quality of the cement mortar can determine the strength and durability of a building. A dense cement mixture will produce a sturdy and long-lasting building.
- Has the SNI logo: Making sure the cement has the SNI logo is an important step in choosing high-quality cement. The SNI logo indicates that the cement has met the established quality standards.
That is a comprehensive explanation of how long cement takes to dry and the factors that affect it. In conclusion, cement drying time can vary depending on several factors. However, by understanding the factors above and following the tips, you can ensure that the cement dries quickly and perfectly.
To help you find the right cement, Semen Merah Putih offers various types of high-quality cement, such as Composite Portland Cement, Bulk Cement, and Precast Concrete which can be tailored to your project needs.
Contact us for more information about Semen Merah Putih products and get the best offer now!
Read also: 5 Advantages of Using Polished Cement Floor in Your Building
