Pour a Concrete Slab

Step 12

Smooth with a magnesium float.

Bull floating will cause "bleed water" (sometimes called "cream") to rise to the surface. Avoid working the surface with any type of float or trowel when there are standing pools of water.

Some finishers use a wood float at this point, but most do-it-yourselfers find a magnesium float easier to use. As soon as the surface is free of puddles, use a magnesium float to further smooth the surface.

Start floating at the far corner and work back so that you do not kneel on newly floated concrete. Hold the tool so that the leading edge is slightly raised, and press down gently as you work.