When concrete is starting to cure most people will often float it. To float the concrete means to level it out right after it has become hard enough for the tool to glide over it without falling into it. Both the regular float and the finishing float are important to help make the concrete smooth and finished. The float will actually compact the slab and mortar at the surface. When floating the concrete by hand it's advised that a magnesium float is used. This is especially stressed if the concrete is lightweight or air entrained.
Tips for Using a Float on Concrete
When using a float on concrete it’s important that you follow some general guidelines so you don’t mess up the finish while the concrete is hardening.
- The most important fact to remember when floating is to keep a low angle to the concrete. If you fail to do this you may accidentally plow the concrete.
- Sometimes you may have to juke the float back and forth to level the concrete out.
- Remember that the goal of floating is to get the cement as smooth as possible. The floating process is the final step in pouring concrete and can make a good job look bad.
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