Red Seal Concrete Finisher Practice Exam

Surface scaling refers to the deterioration of the top layer of concrete, often appearing as a peeling or flaking away of the surface. This condition is primarily caused by insufficient curing, which leads to the delamination of the surface layer. When concrete is not cured adequately, it does not achieve the necessary strength and durability, making it susceptible to environmental factors like freeze-thaw cycles or moisture infiltration. As a result, the top layer may detach from the underlying concrete, resulting in the characteristic appearance of scaling.

The other choices pertain to different conditions and issues in concrete. Cracking of the entire slab represents structural issues, uneven drying concerns hydration inconsistencies, and chipping of the edges usually relates to physical damage or impact rather than a surface-specific condition. Understanding surface scaling and its causes is crucial for ensuring the longevity and integrity of concrete structures.