Float the Concrete Surface
At 0:16 in
For this amount of concrete, are you calling in a truck or are you hand mixing? Be honest.
What happens here
After screeding, wait until the concrete's surface sheen has disappeared (the 'bleed water' has evaporated) but it's still workable. Then, use a hand float (either a magnesium float or a wood float) to further smooth the surface and embed any aggregate particles that may have risen. This action also brings a thin layer of cement paste (known as 'cream') to the surface, which is essential for a good finish. Work the float in broad, arcing motions, applying gentle, even pressure. For longer reaches, a bull float may be used, but for this pathway, hand floats are shown. Ensure all high spots are reduced and low spots are filled.
Goal: Smooth the concrete and bring cream to the surface
Tools and materials
- Concrete Finishing Trowel — For even smoother finishes after floating, though not explicitly shown in this section of the video
- Kneeling Boards — Distributing weight and allowing workers to kneel on the fresh concrete without leaving marks
- Magnesium Hand Float — Smoothing the concrete surface, embedding aggregate, and bringing cream to the top