Applying cement to a floor generally refers to pouring and smoothing concrete, which is a mixture of cement, aggregate, and water. Here's a breakdown of how to do this, incorporating the provided reference information:
Preparing for Concrete Pouring
Before you start pouring, make sure you've prepared the floor area properly. This involves ensuring a level and stable base. This might require compacting the existing soil or laying down a layer of gravel, depending on the project.
Pouring the Concrete
- Timing is Key: According to the provided reference, ready-mixed concrete should ideally be poured within two hours of leaving the batching plant. This ensures that the concrete is still workable and hasn't started to set.
- Strategic Pouring: Pour the concrete in manageable sections, ensuring even distribution across the floor. Avoid pouring all the concrete in one spot.
Leveling and Smoothing
Tool | Purpose |
---|---|
Rake | Use a rake immediately after pouring to evenly spread the concrete and remove excess amounts in one specific location. |
Bull Float | Once the concrete has been raked, use a bull float to smooth the surface and remove any slight variations in levelness. |
Detailed Steps:
- Pour the Concrete: Pour the concrete onto the prepared floor area.
- Rake It: As noted from the reference material, have a rake on hand to spread the concrete evenly as you pour. This will help you reach a level foundation before using other tools.
- Bull Float: Once the concrete has been poured, use a bull float to further smooth out the surface. The float will also help remove any air bubbles trapped in the concrete.
- Additional Tools: Depending on the desired finish you might require other tools, such as edgers, darbies, and trowels.
Curing the Concrete
Once the concrete is poured, leveled, and smoothed, you will have to leave it to dry. The drying process requires specific curing processes to prevent cracking. This might involve keeping the concrete damp with a water spray or covering it with plastic sheeting to slow the drying process.