4 Tips and Tricks for Finishing Concrete and the Tools You Will Need

Concrete finishing is an important step in concrete flooring installation. Concrete is finished to help it set correctly and create a smooth, durable surface. The following tools are some of the most commonly used in the process of finishing concrete.

• A concrete mixer. For large-scale projects, use a wheelbarrow mixer or a towable concrete mixer.
• A straight 2×4 for leveling. Make sure it is long enough for the job
• A bull float or darby to flatten edges that still exist after you have flattened the concrete with the 2×4.
• An edging tool.
• A hand float or magnesium float.
• A straightedge or snap line.
• A grooving tool.
• Concrete dye.
• Broom or concrete brush.

Tips For Achieving the Perfect Finish

After equipping yourself with the right concrete finishing tools in Vallejo, mix the concrete according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Remember, not all concrete is created equal.

When choosing concrete for your project, look for a type that is fit for the purpose. If you want to build a concrete driveway or walkway, opt for 3,000 psi concrete. For larger structures, use 4,000 psi concrete.

Once you have mixed the concrete, follow these tips for a flawless finish.

Pour, Tamp, and Trowel

When pouring concrete, you will want to make sure there are no bubbles that can turn into craters later. Before tamping your concrete, double-check the type you are using, as most concrete mixes produced these days do not need to be tamped.

Tamping some types of concrete can weaken the structure made of them. If you are using one of these types, tamping can backfire.

Next, trowel your concrete using your wooden trowel or magnesium float. When smoothening the surface, keep in mind that some texture is not bad, especially in areas that will be exposed to the elements.

If you are not satisfied with the quality of work, carefully drag your broom across the surface. A concrete surface finished using a broom offers more traction than a surface finished with a trowel.

Work Bleed Water Back into Your Concrete

Some amount of water will rise to the surface while your concrete is setting. Do not allow it to evaporate. Instead, work it back into the concrete using your trowel to prevent scaling and cracking.

Add Color

Adding color to concrete is a great way to improve its appearance. Concrete can be colored to resemble different building materials such as tile, brick, stone, and marble. You can easily apply color to your concrete using water or a solvent. Usually available in powdered form, dyes come in a wide variety of colors.

Protect Your Concrete

To add an additional layer of protection against the elements, apply a sealant to the concrete after it dries and cures. If applied properly, a good sealant can protect your concrete from the elements for 3-5 years.

Bayshore Materials is a trusted landscaping masonry and concrete supply center in Vallejo. No matter your project’s complexity, we will have the right products for it. Need assistance placing your order? Call (707) 644-0859.