EARLY FINISHING

Early Finishing 

Consolidates the surface by eliminating voids and bringing cement paste to the top. It levels and smooths the surface to prepare it for Final Finishing. It also prevents surface defects like honeycombing, segregation, and crusting. Managing bleed water is another key function, allowing it to rise and evaporate before sealing the surface. This step prepares the slab for surface treatments such as troweling, brooming, or stamping.

Tools Commonly Used Common tools include the Bull Float for early surface smoothing and paste distribution, the Darby for smoothing smaller or detailed areas, and Edging tools for defining slab edges. Magnesium hand floats are used for early-stage floating without prematurely sealing the surface, while power floats efficiently work large surface areas.

Best Practices and Tips Begin early finishing only after bleed water has evaporated to avoid surface defects. Monitor environmental conditions like temperature and wind, as they influence set time. In hot or dry conditions, use evaporation retarders to slow surface drying. Avoid over-finishing to preserve surface strength and durability. Magnesium tools are preferred over steel floats in early stages to prevent premature sealing. Plan and mark control joints early to manage cracking and slab movement.