look rough and crack easily. Finishing concrete is not too hard if you follow the right steps. Today, we will show you how to finish concrete like a pro in Central Arkansas.
Why Concrete Finishing Matters
Concrete finishing is more than making the surface smooth. Good finishing concrete in Central Arkansas makes the slab stronger. It stops water from getting in and keeps the surface from breaking down fast. In Central Arkansas, where weather can be hot and humid, finishing concrete the right way will help it last longer.
Prepare Before Pouring
Good finishing starts before you pour the concrete. First, prepare the base well. Make sure the soil is compact. Add gravel if needed. Place your forms tightly so concrete does not leak out.
Check your tools. You will need:
Shovel
Screed board
Bull float
Edger
Groover
Steel trowel
Broom (if you want a broom finish)
Have water ready to clean tools fast before concrete dries on them.
Pour and Screed
Once the concrete truck arrives, pour it quickly. Start from one end and move to the other. Use a shovel to spread it roughly.
Next, use a screed board. This is usually a straight 2x4 piece of wood. Drag it over the top edges of your forms. Move it back and forth in a sawing motion to level the concrete.
This step sets the base for smooth finishing. Take your time to screed well.
Float the Surface
After screeding, it’s time to float. Use a bull float to push down large stones and bring up the cream (smooth cement paste).
Hold the bull float flat on the surface. Push it away from you and pull it back. Do not press too hard. Floating makes the surface even and closes small holes.
Let the concrete sit until the water on top (bleed water) disappears before you move to the next step.
Edge and Groove
When the surface starts to set but is still workable, use an edger. Run it along the edges to round them off. This stops the edges from chipping later.
Then use a groover to cut control joints. These joints help control where cracks will happen. Make the joints about ¼ the depth of your slab and space them 8-10 feet apart for driveways.
Trowel for a Smooth Finish
Now it’s time to trowel. Use a steel trowel for a very smooth finish. Hold it flat and push it across the surface with a bit of pressure.
If you want a broom finish (good for outdoor slabs so people do not slip), use a broom after troweling. Lightly drag it across the concrete for a textured finish.
Cure the Concrete
Curing is important. If concrete dries too fast, it will crack. Cover it with plastic sheets or spray curing compound. Keep it moist for at least 3 days. For driveways and slabs, curing 7 days is best.
Tips for Finishing Concrete in Central Arkansas
Here are some tips for Central Arkansas weather:
Start early in summer. Hot weather speeds up setting time.
Use retarder if needed. This chemical slows down setting on hot days.
Watch the wind. Strong wind can dry the surface too fast and cause cracks.
Keep water spray ready. Light misting helps if it starts drying too fast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people make these mistakes:
Overworking the surface before bleed water goes away. This weakens the slab.
Adding too much water when finishing. It makes concrete weaker.
Not cutting control joints. Slabs will crack anywhere without them.
Forgetting to cure. Curing is what gives concrete its full strength.
Avoid these to get a professional result.
Hiring Professionals for Concrete Finishing
Finishing concrete needs skill and speed. If you want perfect results for your driveway, patio, or slab, hire professionals who know the local weather and soil conditions in Central Arkansas. They will have the right tools and crew to do the job fast and well.
Benefits of Professional Concrete Finishing
Here is why hiring pros can be worth it:
They finish quickly before concrete sets.
They use better tools for smooth finishes.
They know how to create different textures.
They cure concrete properly to avoid cracks.
They ensure the slab drains water correctly.
In the long run, this saves you money on repairs.
Types of Concrete Finishes
Here are popular finishes people choose:
Broom finish: Good for driveways and walkways. It gives grip.
Trowel finish: Smooth and sleek. Best for garages or indoor slabs.
Exposed aggregate: Stones are exposed for a decorative look.
Stamped concrete: Looks like stone, brick, or tile. Needs special tools and skill.
Ask your contractor about these finishes if you want a stylish look.
Caring for Your Finished Concrete
After your concrete is finished and cured, follow these care tips:
Do not drive heavy vehicles on it for at least 7 days.
Clean with mild soap and water to remove stains.
Seal it once a year to protect from water and stains.
Avoid de-icing salts in winter for the first year. They can damage new concrete.
These steps will keep your concrete looking good for years.
Final Thoughts
Finishing concrete well takes planning, patience, and skill. Whether you are building a patio, driveway, or foundation slab in Central Arkansas, follow each step carefully. If you want the best results without stress, call a professional concrete finishing team.
They will handle your project with care and give you a strong, beautiful slab that lasts for decades.
FAQs About Finishing Concrete in Central Arkansas
Q. How long does concrete take to set?
A. Usually, concrete sets in 24-48 hours for light use. But it takes 7 days to cure properly. For full strength, wait 28 days.
Q. What is the best weather for finishing concrete?
A. Mild weather, around 50-70°F, is best. Very hot or cold weather can affect finishing and curing.
Q. Can I finish concrete myself?
A. Yes, but you need to learn the steps well. Concrete sets fast, so it is better to have help or hire professionals for large slabs.
Q. How do I stop my concrete from cracking?
A. Add control joints, cure it properly, and prepare a good base before pouring. These steps reduce cracks.
Q. What finish is best for driveways?
A. A broom finish is best for driveways. It gives a rough surface so cars and people do not slip.
