Not every concrete pour calls for high-tech curing systems. For many projects, wet curing remains one of the most reliable and cost-effective methods to ensure proper hydration and long-term strength. When applied correctly, wet curing blankets lock in moisture, slow down evaporation, and help your slab develop the durability it was designed for, without overcomplicating the process.
Two of the most widely used options are Hessian Rolls and Builders Film, each offering unique benefits depending on the project type, environment, and desired finish. Understanding the difference is key to selecting the right material for the job.
What is Wet Curing?
Wet curing is a method of retaining moisture on freshly placed concrete surfaces to promote gradual hydration of cement. This controlled process:
- Prevents premature drying
- Minimises cracking and shrinkage
- Supports the development of optimal strength and durability
Instead of relying solely on chemical curing compounds, wet curing employs physical coverings, such as hessian fabric or builders’ film, to maintain consistent moisture on the surface.
Hessian Rolls
Danterr’s Hessian Rolls are made from high-quality, undyed natural jute, offering a breathable, biodegradable solution that’s ideal for both in-situ and precast concrete curing.
Key Features of Hessian Rolls:
- Promotes gradual hydration by retaining surface moisture
- Reduces shrinkage and surface cracking
- Breathable, flexible, and eco-friendly
- Easy to handle, soak, and apply
- Suitable for vertical and horizontal surfaces
- Lightweight and reusable for short-term curing
Specifications:
- Available Weights: 14oz and 18oz
- Roll Size: 1800 mm width x 50m length
- Water Retention: High to very high
- Reusability: Limited (short-term curing)
- Applications: Slabs, columns, footpaths, precast elements, road edges, large pours, green construction projects
Best Use Case: When sustainability and breathability are priorities, especially for projects where gradual hydration is essential.
Builders Film
Danterr’s Builders Film is a robust polyethylene (LDPE) sheet, functioning as both a vapour barrier and a surface protection layer for concrete curing. It’s highly durable and fully compliant with Australian standards for slab construction and vapour control.
Key Features of Builders Film:
- Tear and puncture-resistant
- Suitable for commercial and civil projects
- Protects from sub-grade moisture ingress
- Available in high or medium impact ratings
- UV-resistant (for temporary exposure)
- 100% recyclable and environmentally sustainable
Specifications:
- Sizes: 4m x 50m x 200μm
- Thickness & Impact: Per AS/NZS 4347.9 & AS 4347.6
- Colours: Black or orange
- Applications: Concrete slab underlay, vapour barrier, temporary weather/dust barrier, dam lining, curing surface protection
Best Use Case: When you need a robust, impermeable layer to protect against moisture loss or rising damp, especially in high-traffic or exposed environments.
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When to Use Each One?
- Choose Hessian Rolls if you need breathable, natural fibre coverage for slabs, columns, or precast work, and want to minimise environmental impact.
- Choose Builders Film if you need strong, moisture-proof coverage that can withstand foot traffic, wind, and high-impact site activity.
Conclusion
Wet curing may be one of the oldest methods in concrete construction, but it remains a trusted, effective way to deliver strong, durable slabs. Whether you choose Hessian Rolls for their breathable, eco-friendly performance or Builders Film for robust moisture control, Danterr has a solution designed for Australian conditions and industry standards.
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: Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)
Concrete curing blankets are special coverings that help control the environment around freshly poured concrete, regulate temperature, minimize moisture loss, and protect against external elements.
To slow and extend the curing process. This lessens the chance of cracking and adds strength to the concrete.
After concrete is placed, the concrete increases in strength very quickly for a period of 3-7 days. Concrete which is moist cured for 7 days is about 50% stronger than uncured concrete.
Builders Film High Impact Orange Extra Thick. Used for construction work, is waterproof and ideal plastic for temporary weather protection as well as the demolition and asbestos removal industry.
Hessian fabrics are coarse, woven fabrics composed of natural fibres, most frequently from the jute plant. Often referred to as burlap, Hessian fabrics can be made from jute, cotton and sisal fibres, giving the fabrics different weaves varying from tight to very visibly open.