Laying ConcreteCheck weather prior to laying concrete. You will want at least a few days of dry weather after concrete is laid to ensure proper drying after finishing you should cover it with some polythene if needed for a minimum of seven days, more if it's colder weather. Then remove framework.
Once the concrete arrives you will want to lay it, Spreading the concrete over the area should be done with a rake to distribute it evenly within the shuttered framework, next and ideally there should be two of you using a straight wooden tamp, First of all tamping the concrete together to compact it, Then using a see saw movement to screed off the remaining concrete to the level within your framework.
There are many concrete finishes available, Trowel finish, Brush finish, Float finish, Tamp finish, We would recomend a tamp finish, Not only because it is quicker but if you use a trowel finish and water or condensation gets on to the surface it becomes very slippery and icey, Where as with a Tamp finish you have some footwear grip with a Tamp finish. If the surface will need to be cleaned often then a smooth float finish will aid in keeping the surface clean more so than finishes that are grooved or a soft brush finish. You need to think about your project before even ordering your concrete, where is it going to be situated? If it's outside it's worth remembering that concrete should not be allowed to freeze; additives or insulation during the drying process may be needed. If your project will be situated inside it is advisable to place a polythene membrane down prior to the concrete being laid to prevent damp rising through the concrete to the building. As mentioned above checking the weather forecast is a good idea The Met Office aiming for a cool day is a good idea it stops the concrete drying out too fast and you will find the work easier than on a warmer day. Once the concrete has been booked you need to make sure everything has been done to make the job go smoothly, by making sure the formwork has been setup correctly with all measurements correct the job will go smoother and again cutting the risk of the concrete drying prematurely.
