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Question:

Broom Finishing a Concrete Pour

Asked by Facebook User on Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at 01:49 PM

I will be pouring concrete with the help of my local handyman. I am curious as to what a broom finish accomplishes, if anything. I also would like to know how I go about doing a broom finish. Do I just use any old broom I have laying around, or are there special ones I have to purchase from the hardware store?

Please let me know, I really appreciate it!

Answer:

Answered by boscoe on Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 11:26 AM

A "Broom Finish" is the standard finish for patios, sidewalks and driveways. It is commonly used for traction and to give concrete a uniform look.

To achieve a "Broom Finish" follow these steps:
• Pour Concrete
      • Use a 'Rod' to level concrete
      • Float with a 'Bull Float' for large areas
      • Then using ‘Concrete Trowels' trowel the concrete until smooth
• Test Readiness of Concrete
      • Once the concrete has had time to set up, using your fingers to press on the concrete somewhat firmly and your finger tips leave a print, the concrete is ready to broom
      • If a Rough Finish is desired, you will need to use a firmer broom
           • Wet the broom with water and broom in one direction (across traffic)
• Type of Broom
      • You will need a horsehair broom that can be found at any Masonry Material Yard or maybe at your local hardware store.

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