In a concrete pour where a new slab bonds to an existing slab and there is bleed, which surface outcome is expected?

• A. The surface will become smooth and uniform in texture
• B. The surface will buckle under load
• C. The surface will develop cracks
• D. The surface will dry too quickly

Answer: (C)

Bleed creates a near-surface layer and the bond between the new pour and the existing slab creates restraint during curing. As the concrete shrinks, the bonded system cannot move freely, generating tensile stresses at the surface. The combination of bleed-related laitance at the surface and restrained shrinkage from the bonded joint makes surface microcracking likely. So cracks are the expected surface outcome when a new slab bonds to an existing slab and bleed is present.