Red Seal Concrete Finisher Practice Exam

Applying surface hardeners to concrete serves the primary purpose of enhancing surface durability and reducing dusting. Surface hardeners are compounds that are applied to the surface of freshly placed or cured concrete to increase its hardness and wear resistance. By doing so, they significantly improve the lifespan of the concrete, making it more resilient against abrasion and wear from vehicles, foot traffic, and other stresses.

Additionally, these hardeners help to minimize dusting, which can occur when fine particles of concrete wear away, creating a dusty surface that can be a nuisance and a safety hazard. By creating a denser surface, they also help to prevent the penetration of contaminants and moisture into the concrete, further extending its durability.

The other options generally do not align with the main functions of surface hardeners. Bonding new layers is more related to surface preparation techniques rather than enhancements provided by hardeners. Increasing curing time is not a role of surface hardeners; in fact, curing is a separate process entirely, aimed at providing the right conditions for the hydration of cement. Providing color to the concrete is a different aspect related to coloring agents or pigments, which does not relate to the main function of surface hardeners.