How to finish concrete

  • How to finish concrete

    Achieving a good finish is crucial after pouring concrete if you want a durable, smooth surface. If you get the concrete finishing process wrong, it can lead to a damaged, unattractive slab.

    Here, we’ll show you how to finish concrete properly to get the best results.

    • Use a square shovel to spread the wet concrete.
    • Get rid of excess concrete with a straight board or screed tool.
    • Use a bull float to level ridges.
    • Create tidy, rounded edges with an edging device.
    • Use a concrete groover to joint the slab and prevent cracking.
    • Unless you’ll be adding a decorative finish, use a steel trowel to produce a dense surface.

    After finishing your concrete, it will need time to dry, and it can take around a month to cure completely. You can then apply a sealant to prevent stains and prolong the life of the slab.

    Do’s and don’ts of concrete finishing

    It can take years of training and experience to be able to get a professional concrete finish. Here are some do’s and don’ts for beginners:

    • Place the concrete as near as possible to its final location.
    • Avoid overhandling.
    • Don’t use a round-edged shovel to spread the concrete.
    • Avoid tamping high-slump concrete.
    • Do the bull floating before excess moisture or bleed water appears.

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