What Tools Do I Need For Concrete?
Concrete is a ubiquitous sight in our daily lives, seen everywhere from parking garages and driveways to patios and basements. Concrete’s flexibility and application in a wide variety of public and personal infrastructure along with its wide availability and relative ease of use make it a popular choice for many DIY and home improvement enthusiasts. If it’s your first time working with concrete on your own, then you may be a little unsure of what kind of equipment is needed for your project.
First, there are the common tools most people will likely already own: shovels, buckets, tape measures, and wheelbarrows are all useful for laying concrete. As with any construction project, safety gear is vital when working with concrete. The chemicals in concrete mixtures can irritate exposed skin, so it’s important to wear a long sleeve shirt, pants, as well as work boots, rubber gloves, and safety glasses.
Next up, when working with concrete you need a way to mix it. For smaller projects, this can be done manually in a wheelbarrow, but for larger projects, a mixer will be necessary. These can be rented locally for fairly cheap.
There are also a few tools that are necessary for laying the concrete. A screed is a long, straight board used to level the concrete immediately after it is poured. For many home projects, a two-by-four is an adequate substitute, but there are specialized tools out there as well. Floats are tools with a flat metal head attached to a long pole used immediately after screeding. Running the float over the surface of the concrete creates a smooth finish. Finally, you’ll need concrete sealant as well as a hand sprayer to spray the concrete down once it has been laid. Sealant protects the concrete and helps it last as long as possible.
With any project involving concrete, it’s best to consult with professionals if you’re unsure about anything. Visit www.razorbackconcrete.com today to learn more.
Sources:
