6 Concrete Finishing Tools You Will Need

Name: Ernest Maier
Address: 4700 Annapolis Road, Bladensburg, MD, 20710, US
Telephone: 301-927-8300
Price range: $$

Christian Murphy | August 13, 2024

Getting a smooth, polished, and professional finish on concrete surfaces requires the right set of concrete finishing tools. These tools and accessories are helpful in making sure the concrete not only sets properly but also meets the desired aesthetic and functional standards. In this article, we will look at the finer points of must-have concrete finishing equipment that every construction professional should have in their toolkit.

Top Concrete Finishing Tools

Trowels

Trowels are basic concrete construction tools used for smoothing and leveling the surface of freshly poured concrete. There are several types of trowels, each used for different finishing tasks. Brick trowels are commonly used for their durability and ability to produce a smooth, hard surface.

On the other hand, wooden or magnesium trowels are often used for their lighter weight and less aggressive finishing action. A good quality trowel helps get just the right surface texture and is necessary for any concrete finishing job.

Floats

Floats are another much-needed tool in the concrete finishing process. They come in different materials, including wood, magnesium, and rubber for different finishing effects. Floats are used to smooth out the surface and fill in any low spots after the concrete has been initially placed and leveled.

Wooden floats are great for creating a rougher texture, while magnesium and rubber floats are ideal for finer finishing. Using a float correctly can greatly affect the final appearance and texture of the concrete surface.

Edgers

Concrete edgers are used to create a clean, rounded edge along the perimeter of a concrete slab. They help prevent cracks from developing at the edges and provide a professional finish.

Edgers come in different sizes and shapes to create different edge profiles, from straight to beveled or rounded. Proper use of an edger helps guarantee that the edges of the concrete slab are not only visually appealing but also structurally sound.

Brooms

Brooms are used to texture the surface of the concrete, providing both aesthetic appeal and improved slip resistance. There are different types of brooms designed for certain texturing effects, such as smooth or brushed finishes.

A concrete broom usually has stiff bristles that are dragged across the surface to create the desired texture. This tool is used for creating non-slip surfaces on driveways, sidewalks, and other high-traffic areas.

Joint Tools

Joint tools are used to create control joints on the concrete surface. They help manage cracking by allowing controlled areas for expansion and contraction. These tools come in a number of shapes and sizes, including hand tools and automated groovers.

Properly placed joints are imperative for preventing unsightly and structurally damaging cracks in the concrete. Joint tools help maintain the integrity of the concrete while boosting its overall appearance.

Cleaning Tools for Concrete and Masonry Work

A duster is suitable for a wide range of masonry applications, including cleaning bricks, stone, and mortar work. This tool is essential for keeping your masonry work clean and free from dust and debris for a professional finish.

For grouting and cleanup, a grout sponge is indispensable. It helps in applying grout smoothly and cleaning up excess material to make sure your tiled surfaces look perfect. The sponge is designed to hold a lot of water and is easy to wring out, which makes the grouting process much more efficient.

Achieving the Perfect Finish

For your concrete finishing needs, Ernest Maier has a full selection of high-quality concrete accessories. Our products are designed to help you achieve superior results with ease.

If you are unsure how much concrete you need, consider using our handy Concrete Calculator.

Contact us today at 301-927-8300 to explore our offerings and find the perfect tools for your next project.