I'm getting ready to pour a 32"x60" concrete pad next to my house and I've got some basic tools like a Marshalltown 16" mag float, an edger, a groover, and a broom. However, I'm wondering if I really need a stainless steel or aluminum finishing trowel if I'm planning on a broom finish. This is just my first pad to practice on, but I want to make sure I'm using the right tools as I plan to tackle more projects in the future. After this first pad, I want to pour a second one next to it to create a nice side yard space, and if that goes well, I'm hoping to widen my parking spot in the front area too!
1 Answer
As a retired general contractor and concrete specialist, I can definitely say you should consider using a steel trowel to seal the slab even if you’re going for a broom finish. The brooming technique is mainly to create a non-slip surface, but timing is everything—broom it too early and you could end up with a disaster! I encourage you to research the process a bit more to really get the fundamentals down. Good luck with your project!
Thanks! I've been watching videos but I might have muddled some steps. Can I run them by you to check I've got them straight?