Core TradesQuestion 71 of 700

During hot-weather concreting at 95 degrees F with dry wind, the MOST important immediate practice to prevent surface defects is to:

a.Increase the mix water to keep it workable
b.Protect the surface from moisture loss with fogging, evaporation retarder, or prompt curing
c.Use a higher-slump mix and delay finishing
d.Add extra retarder and leave it exposed

Explanation

In hot, windy conditions rapid evaporation causes plastic shrinkage cracking, so the priority is reducing moisture loss with fogging, evaporation retarders, and prompt curing. Adding mix water raises the water-cement ratio and weakens the concrete; leaving it exposed worsens evaporation.

Law Reference: 2025 CA Building Code, Chapter 19 (Concrete)

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