Hand float / magnesium float A flat hand tool, typically made of magnesium, used by concrete finishers to smooth out ridges, level small imperfections, and prepare freshly screeded concrete for final troweling.
The magnesium hand float is a staple in any NYC sidewalk contractor's tool kit. Magnesium is highly favored because it slides smoothly over wet concrete without sticking, effectively leveling high spots and filling small voids left after screeding. This process also helps bring water-rich cement paste to the surface, which is essential for achieving a durable, compliant broom finish. Properly floated concrete is less likely to scale or flake during harsh winter freeze-thaw cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hand float / magnesium float
What is a hand float used for?
Smoothing screed ridges, leveling small imperfections and preparing freshly screeded concrete for the next finishing step.
Why magnesium?
Magnesium slides over wet concrete without sticking or tearing the surface, which makes it well suited to floating fresh concrete.
How does floating improve durability?
It closes small voids and helps produce an even surface, reducing the chance of scaling or flaking during freeze-thaw cycles.
When is floating done?
After screeding, once the initial bleed water has left the surface, and before any troweling or brooming.