Which surface outcome is expected specifically when the new slab bleeds during placement and is connected to an existing slab?

• A. The surface will become smoother than expected
• B. The surface will develop cracks
• C. The surface will cure with a pale color
• D. The surface will crack irregularly at the edges

Answer: (B)

When the new slab bleeds, water rises to the surface and can create a laitance layer, leaving a weaker, more plastic surface. If this fresh slab is connected to an existing slab, movement is restrained as both pours cure, while they shrink at different rates. That restraint combined with the weaker surface promotes tensile stresses at the top, which express as cracks. So the surface is expected to crack, especially near the joint where the two slabs meet, rather than smoothing out or maintaining a uniform color.