Concrete Driveways - Proper Finishing Techniques

Use the proper finishing techniques and tools
The biggest mistakes that occur during the finishing of concrete driveways are overworking the surface and performing finishing operations while bleedwater is present.

Finishing is generally a three-step process. Your contractor should:

  • Level or strike off the concrete with a screed to achieve a uniform surface.
  • Float the concrete with a wood or magnesium bullfloat before bleedwater accumulates.
  • Apply a simple broom finish to improve traction—unless plans call for stamping the driveway or applying another type of decorative textured finish (see Making Concrete Slip Resistant).

Final finishing with a steel trowel is unnecessary and can actually do more harm than good by sealing the concrete surface prematurely and preventing the evaporation of bleedwater.

Read about proper finishing tools.

Read The Concrete Network's Shop Smart Guide to Buying Concrete Finishing Tools.

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