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Concrete dries faster in the heat than in the cold, but when concrete cures too fast, it can cause weak concrete. It’s best to pour concrete when temperatures are between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, watering it five to 10 times per day for seven days (unless you pour concrete in the winter). Slower cure times, such as when pouring concrete in cold weather, can cause strong concrete, but you need to monitor the temperature drop and moisture levels. Avoid pouring concrete when temperatures are below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Yes, concrete lasts much longer than other common building materials. For example, asphalt lasts between 15 and 30 years on average, a small fraction of concrete's 50- to 100-year life span. Stone pavers on driveways and patios will last between 20 and 25 years without major repair. In other words, concrete is your best bet for long-term investment and minimal upkeep.

Factors like the time of day you choose to seal the concrete, temperature, humidity, and airflow will impact drying time. To shorten the drying time, seal concrete in the late afternoon on a day with a temperature between 45 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Dry pour concrete cures in the same amount of time as wet pour concrete, so you’re looking at four to six hours for it to harden, 24 to 48 hours before you can remove forms and expose the slab to foot traffic, a week before it can stand up to vehicle traffic, and about a month for it to be fully cured.