Tools at a Glance: The Bull Float

Do you ever cruise by a beautiful home and admire the driveway, the way its smooth aesthetic must welcome residents home? Do you ever go for a run and find joy in a sidewalk so flawless and level, giving you peace of mind at any speed? Your delight is rooted in finished concrete. And you can thank the Bull Float tool for the final product.

Introducing the Bull Float

What is the Bull Float? Simple, after poured concrete has been leveled by a screed, it smooths out the surface. It’s an art, really, helping to correct imperfections and prepare for a finishing coat.

From sidewalks to patios to driveways, the Bull Float offers desired texture and sleekness. The process, though not incredibly complex, prevents premature sealing. How is it done? Keep reading!

Using a Bull Float

Just before the concrete is left to set you’ll run the bull float over the area in focus. The key is to keep the tool as flat against the concrete as possible. This results in optimum smoothness. When you’re using a small version, this is fairly simple to achieve. But when you’re dealing with the larger option it takes some practice. Ultimately, you’ll want to tilt the front up a little when you drive it forward. Then lift it slightly as you pull back. This prevents the concrete from burying the tool. Feel it out and find what technique works best for you. You can judge this by merely looking at the outcome and its overall aesthetic.

After you’ve done this once, you’ll repeat the process which will give the concrete an almost creamy appearance.

Different Types

As is the case with any tool, the Bull Float comes in many shapes and sizes. There are square ends and round ends, 36 inches and 48 inches, laminated wood, magnesium, and aluminum. There are a variety and what you choose to use really depends on the project.

Regardless, one thing is for sure – Elston Materials has what you’re looking for!