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FLOAT TROWELING

SCREEDING VIBRATION EARLY FINISHING

Float Troweling a method of Early Finishing

Performed after screeding and before final troweling or finishing. It helps create a flat, compact surface and prepares the slab for its final texture or polish.

Purpose of Float Troweling

  1. Leveling: Smooths out minor imperfections left after screeding.
  2. Compacting: Slightly compresses the surface to make it more durable.
  3. Paste Distribution: Brings cement paste to the surface, essential for later finishing.
  4. Air Removal: Helps eliminate trapped air and reduces surface laitance.
  5. Pre-Finish Prep: Provides the proper surface consistency for subsequent troweling or texturing.

Methods of Float Troweling

1. Hand Floating

  • Best for small areas, edges, and detailed sections.
  • Offers precise control.
  • Requires a skilled hand to avoid digging into the surface.

2. Power Floating

  • Used on large concrete slabs.
  • Performed with a power trowel (walk-behind or ride-on).
  • Covers large areas quickly and uniformly.

Common Tools Used

Hand Tools

  • Magnesium Float: Lightweight, resists sticking, and used for general floating.
  • Wood Float: Useful for rougher textures and absorbing moisture from the surface.
  • Resin Float: Often used for decorative finishes or specialized applications.

Power Tools

  • Power Trowel (with float blades): Mechanical tool with large rotating blades designed to smooth and compact the slab.
  • Combination Blades: Can be used for both floating and finishing, though not as effective as dedicated float blades.

Tips and Best Practices

  1. Timing Is Crucial: Start float troweling after bleed water has evaporated but before the surface becomes too hard.
  2. Avoid Overworking: Too much floating can weaken the surface by drawing excess water and fines to the top.
  3. Select the Right Float: Use magnesium for general work, wood for rougher surfaces, and resin for specialty finishes.
  4. Control Blade Angle: Keep power trowel blades flat during floating to prevent gouging.
  5. Overlap Passes: Ensures consistent surface compaction and smoothness.
  6. Edge Early: Use edging tools before floating to define slab boundaries.
  7. Protect the Surface: Don’t walk on it too early; use knee boards or wait until it can support your weight.
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