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How to Cast Smooth Concrete

Builders and homeowners often deal with the problems of casting cement that comes out uneven or rough in spots. While no cement pour will be completely smooth, using the proper materials and tools can help you achieve a nearly perfect cement job. According to "Working with Concrete" by Rick Arnold, the concrete "...should be as flat and smooth as possible...[because] there will be less sub-grade drag when the cured slab inevitably moves."

Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a partially sand-based concrete rather than one that is solely rock-based. Sand is finer and contributes to a smoother pour and cast.

    • 2

      Add a fine aggregate to regular rock concrete. In most cases this is simply a sandy material that can be manually added to concrete and purchased at the same location.

    • 3

      Pour the concrete into a pre-made cast or mold. These are available for purchase and allow you to create smooth and sculpted cement blocks and planks before setting them in place. Drying time will take several days or perhaps close to a week.

    • 4

      Take a trowel to any rough concrete and smooth out the edges. This is the most basic approach to smoothing concrete and yet often the most effective.

    • 5

      Smooth over the edges of preexisting concrete by adding a new layer of finer cement. Cover the old cement with a small amount of new concrete to hide the imperfections.