How to Use a Masonry Bull Float
For large areas such as driveways or concrete patios, the arms just aren't long enough to smooth the entire surface with a hand float. That's why the masonry bull float was invented. The float is made of metal and is usually 48 inches by 8 inches. A pole attached to it gives the reach needed to level the poured concrete. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Wait until the poured concrete dries slightly before using the bull float. If the float sinks down when you put it on the concrete, the concrete is too soft.
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2
Lift the bull float with the handle and set it on the edge of the concrete farther from you, just inside the form that holds the concrete together.
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3
Keep the handle lifted so that the edge coming toward you tilts up slightly. This angle puts most of the pressure on the trailing edge and keeps the forward edge from digging into the concrete.
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4
Pull the masonry bull float back toward your side of the concrete, walking backwards and holding the handle steady.
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5
Change the handle position so that the edge farther from you angles up slightly.
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6
Walk forward, keeping the handle steady, and let the bull float do the work. If you push on the pole, the float can gouge the concrete.
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7
Repeat Steps 3 through 6 as many times as necessary until the surface is smooth. The repeated floating of the concrete will level gaps and drive the rocks below the concrete surface.
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Tips & Warnings
If any stubborn gaps remain in the concrete after it is floated several times, use the pole to wiggle the float as you pull it toward you.
