Pouring and finishing concrete may seem simple, but one small mistake can lead to big problems. Whether you’re working on a driveway, patio, or floor, how you finish the concrete affects how it looks and how long it lasts. Avoiding common mistakes can help make sure your project turns out strong and smooth. Here are some concrete finishing mistakes that could ruin your work.
1. Working the Surface Too Soon
One common mistake is starting to finish the concrete before it has set enough. If you trowel or smooth the surface too early, it can cause cracks, weak spots, or an uneven finish. Always wait until the water on top (called “bleed water”) is gone before you begin.
2. Adding Too Much Water
It might seem helpful to add water to make the concrete easier to work with, but too much water weakens the mix. This makes the surface soft, which can lead to cracking, peeling, and dusting later. Only use the amount of water recommended and never add more once the concrete is poured.
3. Overworking the Concrete
Troweling the concrete too much can weaken the surface. Overworking it pushes water and cement to the top, which can cause flaking or scaling. Use the right tools and avoid going over the surface too many times.
4. Poor Curing Practices
Curing is one of the most important steps after finishing the concrete. If the concrete dries too fast, it can crack and lose strength. Keep the surface moist by covering it with plastic, using a curing compound, or lightly spraying it with water. Good curing helps the concrete get stronger and last longer.
5. Using the Wrong Tools
Using the wrong tools—or not using them the right way—can leave marks, dips, or rough spots. Make sure you have the right tools for each step and know how to use them before you start.
Finishing concrete the right way takes time and care. Mistakes like starting too early, using too much water, or skipping curing can ruin your project. By avoiding these errors and using the right tools, you can get a smooth, strong finish that lasts.
This post was written by a professional at Apexx Enterprise LLC. Adam Ortega founded the company Apexx Enterprise LLC, in 2016 at only 20 years old. Mr. Ortega has become a licensed general contractor Tucson in the state of Arizona like his father and grandfather before him. Apexx Enterprise LLC is licensed, bonded, and insured and it is available for review at the Better Business Bureau. Apexx Enterprise LLC has won many achievements within the Home Advisor platform and we have multiple reviews as well. Their Mission Statement – “Our crew at Apexx Enterprise will perform the highest quality construction services for our customers. We aim to achieve our mission through total service satisfaction and by delivering our services while maintaining the highest levels of professionalism, integrity, and honesty.” Click here to learn more!
