Pour a Concrete Slab

Step 18

Broom finish and cure.

Using a soft-bristled push broom, pull the broom toward you -- never push it -- to produce a lightly textured surface. If the bristles don't dig in and produce the surface you like, try wetting the broom. Work carefully and aim to produce a consistent texture with straight lines. Avoid overlapping the strokes; make them right next to each other.

The more slowly concrete cures, the stronger it will be. Keep the finished concrete moist for at least a week. Cover the slab with plastic or spray it with a fine mist twice a week (or more often if the air is dry). After a day, carefully pry away temporary forms.