How to Level Concrete

One of the hardest parts of the construction stage is leveling the concrete. However, with proper teamwork and following these simple instructions you will not find it a mammoth task.

Tools needed

• Shovel
• Bucket for carrying the mixed cement form the mixing area to the construction area
• Hand float
• Concrete edger
• Hand Trowel

Material needed

• Cement
• Water
• Gravel
• Sand
• Board needed for forming

Instructions

1. Make sure that the surface is clean from any form of leaves or other debris. If the area needs to be washed overnight make sure that it is done and properly dried before commencing.
2. Find an appropriate mixing area.
3. Mix the sand and gravel together by using the shovel.
4. Add the cement to the mix and stir, gradually adding water until the mixture reaches its required texture.
5. Place the concrete mixture in the bucket and take it to the area under construction.
6. Pour the concrete unto the surface and use the shovel to do a rough leveling.
7. Run the forming board above the surface of the concrete so as to properly place the concrete onto the surface. If after using the board to level the surface and you see any sinks or holes in the structure, fill the area with more concrete, and begin the process of leveling with the board again.
8. Let the area set for at least 24 hrs.
9. Sieve sand so that only the refined texture is left.
10. Mix the sand and cement with water to the required texture.
11. Place mixture in a bucket and bring to the construction area.
12. Pour the concrete unto the surface and use the shovel to do a rough leveling.
13. Use the board to once again level the area
14. Use the hand trowel and hand float to smooth the surface, then leave to dry.

Tips and warnings

• Before leveling a surface make sure that you properly assess the area and look for cracks or uneven surfaces. If a crack is found, fill it with necessary crack fillers. For best results make sure that you use masonry crack filler.
• If leveling is required use boards to form or even the area at fault. This way the mixture will not flow over to the other area that you do not need to correct.
• When the concrete mixture is thoroughly mixed it must be used as quickly as possible to prevent setting (hardening of the concrete). Therefore you can mix the sand, stone, and cement mixture and set it aside only adding water to the amount that is needed at the time.
• Team work is necessary when leveling concrete, so it is best to delegate the responsibilities. For instance, you have someone mixing the concrete, another person carrying the mixture to the construction area, and another person leveling the areas. This delegation of responsibilities is due to the fact that once the concrete is mixed it has to be level quickly or it will harden.