Cement Cracks After Drying? Here Are the Causes and Solutions!

After pouring and drying the cement, you may find cracks on the surface. This can reduce the strength and appearance of the building structure. What causes it, and how to prevent it? Check out the following explanation!

Causes of Cement Cracking After Drying

1. Excessive Water Mixture
   Too much water in the cement mixture makes it thinner and evaporates easily when dry, causing it to shrink and crack.
    
2. Drying Process Too Fast
   Hot weather, strong winds, or direct sunlight can cause cement to lose water too quickly, causing it to shrink and crack.
    
3. Incorrect Cement Mixture
   The ratio between cement, sand, and water must be correct. If there is too much sand or coarse aggregate, the adhesive power can be reduced and cause cracks.
    
4. Lack of Compaction and Leveling
   If the mixture is not compacted or leveled properly, the air trapped in it can cause cracks after drying.
    
5. Difference in Cement Layer Thickness
   A cement layer that is too thin or too thick in one area can cause uneven stress and trigger cracks.
    
6. Lack of Post-Application Maintenance
   After application, the cement needs to be kept moist with a curing process (treatment) so that it does not dry too quickly.

Solutions and Ways to Prevent Cracked Cement

1. Use the Right Mixture
   Use a ratio of cement, sand, and water that is appropriate for the type of work being done.
    
2. Avoid Using Excess Water
   Add enough water so that the mixture is not too runny. If necessary, use a concrete additive that increases adhesion without having to add excessive water.
    
3. Carry out the Curing Process Correctly
   After the cement begins to harden, wet the surface periodically or cover it with plastic for several days to maintain moisture.
    
4. Apply in the Right Weather
   Avoid pouring cement when the weather is too hot or windy to reduce water evaporation that is too fast.
    
5. Use Quality Cement
   Choose high-quality cement such as PCC Cement (Portland Composite Cement) which has better resistance to cracking than ordinary OPC Cement.
    
6. Carry out Good Compaction and Leveling
   Use the appropriate leveling and compaction tools so that the mixture does not leave air cavities.

Conclusion
Cement that cracks after drying can be caused by excess water, drying too quickly, or errors in leveling and maintenance. To prevent this:

• Use the right mixture
• Avoid drying too quickly
• Do the correct curing process
• Use high-quality cement

With these steps, your casting results will be more durable, strong, and free from cracks!

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