Conditions and Tools

• Check the weather before pouring your slab. Concrete cures best in mid-50°F temperature range. If the temperature is hotter or colder, you may need to take additional measures, like adding more water or covering the surface.
  
  Once you have poured the concrete, it will cure for the next 30 days. The concrete can crack if it dries too quickly; so follow manufacturer's instructions for water content and temperature.
  
  Collect these tools prior to pouring the concrete because you will need them immediately once the concrete is in the forms. You will need:
  • a screed, which is used to level the surface;
  • a darby, which is used to smooth the surface;
  • a magnesium float, used to compact the surface;
  • an edger;
  • a grooving tool;
  • and possibly a steel trowel.
  
  A piece of 2 inch by 4 inch board can be used for the screed.
  
  

Leveling and Edges

• Use the screed to level the concrete in the forms right after it is poured. Use a zig-zag motion to move the concrete to fill out and smooth the surface. Have the darby ready to fill in the holes left by the screed. Two passes with the darby should be enough as you don't want to overwork the concrete.
  
  Let the surface water sit on top before starting the next step. When the water begins to disappear, use the edger to go around the perimeter to round and compact the corners.
  
  The concrete should be firming up and barely give when you press hard into it.
  
  

Final Finishing

• Divide the slab into equal parts to layout where the control joints will be placed. This is to help control cracking. The joints should be 4 feet for sidewalks and small slabs and at 10 to 12 feet for driveways and garages. Use the groover and run it along a straight edge to make the joints about ¼ to ½ inch deep.
  
  Use the float or trowel to compact and smooth the final surface. Do not use a steel trowel if you have used air-entrained concrete. Use the float to remove marks left by the edging and do a final overall, clean finish. A trowel is more difficult to use in technique, but will equally give a similarly smooth finish.
  
  When you are happy with the look of the slab, you are done.
  
  If you want a rough texture for better traction, you may apply a broom finish. Drag a concrete broom or regular push broom across the concrete surface.