This diy step by step article is about how to finish concrete slab. Consequently, you need several tools which you can either buy or make by yourself in order to give concrete a nice looking finish. Generally speaking, there are a lot of possible finishes you can give to your concrete slab or foundation, but the easiest one is to use a large float made out of 2×4 boards. Nevertheless, make sure you finish the concrete slab or foundation as soon as possible, otherwise the concrete might dry out and you won’t be able to use the float to smoothen its surface. Finishing a large span of concrete is more complex than smaller projects, as you need a few friends to help you and a certain techniques, to get the job done properly.
Made from this plan
In order to finish concrete slab, you need the following:
Materials
- Concrete
- Wood boards for building the forms
- 2×2 lumber for securing the forms
Tools
- Safety gloves, safety glasses
- Measuring tape
- Bristle push broom for finishing the concrete slab
- Wooden float to level the concrete slab
Tips
- Use boots, as not to get your cloths and skin dirty with concrete
- Clean thoroughly your tools after you have finished the project
Time
- Few hours up to a day, according to the surface
My best tips on finishing a concrete slab:
Finishing a concrete slab is the key to creating a smooth, durable surface that can be used for patios, driveways, or foundations. Whether you’re working on a large or small project, knowing how to properly finish concrete is essential for a professional result. Here are my best tips to help you finish a concrete slab with confidence.
1. Gather the Right Tools
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials:
- Trowel (steel or magnesium)
- Bull float
- Edging tool
- Screed board
- Concrete broom
- Water spray bottle (for re-wetting)
- Protective gear (gloves, knee pads)
2. Prepare the Concrete Mix
Whether you’re mixing the concrete yourself or using pre-mixed concrete, it’s important to get the consistency right. The concrete should be wet but firm, not too runny or dry. If it’s too watery, it will be difficult to finish, and if it’s too dry, it won’t bond or cure properly.
3. Pour the Concrete Evenly
Start by pouring the concrete into the area you’re working on. Use a shovel or wheelbarrow to distribute the concrete evenly across the slab. Once poured, use a screed board (a long, straight edge) to level the surface of the concrete. Drag the screed board across the surface in a back-and-forth motion, making sure the slab is level and removing any excess.
4. Use a Bull Float to Smooth the Surface
After leveling with the screed, use a bull float to smooth the surface of the concrete. The bull float helps remove ridges, fill in low spots, and push down any gravel to create a smoother surface. Work the bull float across the slab in long, sweeping motions, holding it at a slight angle to avoid digging into the wet concrete.
5. Let the Concrete Set
Once the surface is smoothed, let the concrete set for a short period—typically 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the weather conditions. You’ll know it’s ready when the concrete is still damp but firm enough that you can walk on it without leaving deep footprints.
6. Use an Edging Tool for Clean Edges
For a professional look, use a concrete edging tool to finish the edges of the slab. Run the edging tool along the sides of the concrete to create smooth, rounded edges that won’t chip easily. This step not only improves the appearance of the slab but also helps prevent cracks along the edges.
7. Trowel the Surface for a Smooth Finish
Once the concrete has firmed up, use a trowel to smooth the surface further. If you’re looking for a smooth, polished finish, a steel trowel works best, while a magnesium trowel is ideal for a lighter, more textured finish. Move the trowel in sweeping arcs across the surface, holding it at a slight angle to smooth out imperfections.
8. Create a Non-Slip Surface with a Broom Finish (Optional)
If you want a non-slip surface (especially for patios or driveways), use a concrete broom to create a textured finish. Once the concrete is partially set, drag the broom lightly across the surface in a straight line. The grooves created by the broom provide traction, making the surface safer when wet.
9. Add Control Joints
Control joints help prevent cracking by allowing the concrete to expand and contract naturally. Use a groover tool to create straight control joints at regular intervals (usually every 4 to 6 feet). You can also use a chalk line to guide the placement of the joints for a more professional look.
10. Cure the Concrete Properly
Curing is one of the most important steps for achieving a strong, durable concrete slab. Keep the concrete moist for at least 7 days after finishing to allow it to cure slowly and evenly. You can cover the slab with plastic sheeting or mist the surface with water regularly to maintain moisture.
Bonus Tip: Protect the Slab from Extreme Weather Extreme heat or cold can affect how concrete cures. In hot weather, consider using a curing compound or keeping the concrete shaded to prevent it from drying too quickly. In colder conditions, protect the slab with insulating blankets to prevent freezing.
How to pour a concrete slab
Pouring concrete with hose
In order to pour a slab you need to level off the surface and build a basic formwork. The formwork is usually made of wood boards, but you have to make sure it is rigid, as the concrete exercise a high pressure after it has been poured in.
When building the formwork, you have to make sure it is aligned and level. It is essential to build the formward at the same level on all sides, as in most of the cases you have to use a screed (a long straight piece of lumber or metal) to keep the concrete surface flat.
If your yard is large, then the concrete truck can pour the concrete directly in the formwork. Nevertheless, there are cases in which the truck cannot reach a certain location, so you have to use a pomp and 4” hoses. If this is the case, make sure you pour the concrete as evenly as possible on the whole surface, otherwise you will find it difficult to finish the concrete slab.
How to pour a concrete slab
Remember that actually pouring concrete in the formwork with a hose, isn’t as easily as it might seem at the first glance. On the contrary, the person who is in charge with this operation has to be used to this, otherwise it could be even injured during the process.
While pouring the concrete slab, the hose will get really heavy, so it is a good idea to get a few friends to give you a hand. Make sure you use rubber boots, some old cloths and protective gloves, otherwise the concrete might affect your skin.
How to finish a concrete slab
Finishing concrete slab
Consequently, you could build a float by using a regular stick and a 2×4 wooden board. The board should be around 2 feet wide, as to be able to use it easily when finishing concrete slab. If the weather is very hot, you should hurry yourself, otherwise the concrete might dry out and you woundn’t be able to finish concrete slab.
How to finish concrete slab
Continue using the float over the whole surface making sure you give the concrete a nice finish. As you notice in the image, you still have to use rubber boots as to be able to finish concrete on the whole surface.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to finish a concrete slab like a pro. Whether you’re creating a patio, driveway, or foundation, a well-finished slab will provide a smooth, durable surface that can withstand the test of time.
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