How to become A Concrete Finisher

• Cement Finisher
• Concrete Mason
• Cement & Concrete Mason

What do Concrete Finishers do?

A Concrete Finisher would typically need to:

• Smooth and finish concrete surfaces to complete construction projects
• Pour, spread, level, shape, colour, smooth, and finish concrete for surfaces, such as roads, highways, pavements, kerbs, parking lots/garages, patios, and floors
• Interpret blueprints, drawings, and photographs to figure out client preferences and specifications
• Prepare the work area; clear the site and set up forms or moulds that shape the liquid concrete into structures of required depth and pitch
• Wet the surface in preparation for bonding; fill holes and cracks with grout and slurry; compact the materials using power vibrators to create a levelled base
• Collaborate with the mason to mix concrete materials, including cement, aggregates, water, and additives, to ensure proper proportions and consistency
• Use a particular cement truck if working on large projects; install reinforcing materials, including lath, iron and rebar, if needed
• Pour mixed concrete or signal trucks and moving chutes to facilitate pouring concrete into prepared forms or moulds 
• Use hand/power tools to smooth, level, and shape the concrete; mould expansion joints and edges
• Remove excess concrete and fill voids to get the desired texture, contour, and functionality
• Apply hardening and sealing compounds to cure the concrete surface, with a weather eye on the effect heat, wind, and cold have on the final product
• Add texture, patterns, or decorative elements to the concrete surface through the use of stamping, stencilling, or applying colourants/coatings
• Polish the surfaces with the help of smoothing materials, abrasive tools, and surfacing machines
• Use in-depth knowledge of the properties of cement and concrete to ensure the completed project can withstand diverse weather conditions
• Patch damaged areas, resurface worn surfaces or apply protective coatings to enhance the appearance and durability of existing concrete surfaces
• Make sure of strict adherence to safety protocols throughout the concrete pouring and finishing process
• Perform quality control checks to confirm the finished concrete surfaces meet prescribed standards and specifications
• Rig or dismantle props and equipment, such as frames, scaffolding, platforms, or backdrops, using hand and power tools
• Clean and maintain hand and power tools; mix mortar and keep team members supplied with block and brick, if necessary
• Supervise and train workers to use special tools and equipment for spreading concrete
• Use clear and detailed instructions to make the most efficient use of regular collaboration with other crew members

The work environment may depend on the specific project and construction site. However, Concrete Finishers primarily work outdoors alongside other construction professionals, including contractors, labourers, and equipment operators. Travel may become necessary in case of multiple projects at different locations.

Although most Concrete Finishers have full-time schedules that are frequently erratic. Work on roadways is best done late at night or on weekends to avoid rush-hour traffic. Project deadlines may require one to work beyond the standard 46 weekly hours.

Research suggests that flexible hours appeal more than salary to the younger generation. There has been an incremental increase in employers willing to give promising employees a chance to adjust their schedules per the job demands.

Finding a new job may be challenging. Concrete Finishers can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies. Self-employment and freelancing are viable options.

Concrete Finishers are generally employed by:

• Construction Companies
• Individual Clients

Professional associations and organisations, such as the International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI), are crucial for Concrete Finishers interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. 

Professional associations provide members with continuing education, networking opportunities, and mentorship services. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Dusty and dirty work environment; additional exposure to inclement weather, in case of outdoor work
• Temporary but inevitable delays caused by inclement weather conditions, including heavy downpours
• Strenuous work involving physical demands and significant time spent on one’s feet, bending, kneeling, and working with hand-held tools
• Discomfort caused by having to lift heavy materials, operate power equipment, and manoeuver in confined spaces and at heights
• Imperfect close/distance/peripheral/colour vision and depth perception

A three- to four-year-long paid apprenticeship with a local construction company or trade union is frequently recommended to acquire the skills needed as a Concrete Finisher. Applicants must be at least 18 and have a high school diploma or equivalent.

The apprentice may need to complete 144 hours of related technical instruction and 2,000 hours of on-the-job training annually under an experienced Concrete Finisher. They will benefit from tasks outside the classroom that align perfectly with lessons inside it.

In addition, one may hear countless stories from more experienced professionals and obtain valuable hands-on experience when they turn seemingly routine incidents into unique learning moments.

The programme generally incorporates in-depth knowledge of blueprints, building code requirements, mathematics, measuring and mixing concrete, safety standards, and first aid procedures. Successful candidates may take on the title ‘journey worker,’ which entitles them to do their job unsupervised.

Although they might be challenging to get, entry-level concrete labourer or assistant mason positions in a local construction company can offer a taste of the career on different job sites, provide informal training, help build valuable contacts and improve one’s prospects of getting a permanent job. 

The experience may also help determine whether the public, private or voluntary sector is best suited to realise one’s ambitions. Your educational provider’s career service department can provide information about viable work placements, internships and voluntary work opportunities in diverse sectors.

Even while in high school, you can check with a teacher or counsellor about relevant work-based learning opportunities available in your school or community that can help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Check with the neighbourhood construction companies or trade unions for summer apprenticeship opportunities open to high school students. Seek part-time or seasonal general labour jobs on construction sites during summer or school breaks. Work weekends or holidays with a relative who is a Concrete Finisher.

Exercise regularly and participate in sports to build the good physical health and stamina you need as a Concrete Finisher. Take advantage of various online resources, videos, and tutorials to understand the basics of concrete finishing and develop some skills before pursuing formal training.

Read about the profession and interview or job shadow experienced Concrete Finishers who can mentor you, provide hands-on training, and help you prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

Most Concrete Finishers find a high school diploma is sufficient to find work. However, some vocational schools, community colleges, and trade schools offer masonry or concrete-specific certificate or associate degree programmes. 

Courses in concrete technology or construction trade often incorporate foundation knowledge of cement and concrete, construction principles, blueprint reading, safety procedures, and basic masonry techniques. 

Some further education providers offer a series of vocational qualification practical assessments on concrete finishing techniques taught through classroom lessons and online tutorials.

In all the scenarios mentioned above, enhanced understanding gives successful graduates a headstart and increases their chances of finding paid apprenticeships and lucrative employment.

Recommended high school courses include geometry, algebra, practical math, advanced math applications, construction technology, computer-aided drafting (CAD), and shop classes in woodworking and metalworking. 

Remember that completing a particular academic course does not guarantee entry into the profession. Be that as it may, professional qualifications and transferable skills may open up more than one door.

Do your homework and look into all available options for education and employment before enrolling in a specific programme. Reliable sources that help you make an educated decision include associations and employers in your field.

While not mandatory, certification demonstrates a Concrete Finisher’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. 

Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics. They can help you stand out in a competitive job market and carry a significant salary premium of up to 18 per cent.

Certification as a concrete flatwork finisher and technician from an objective and reputed organisation involves written and practical exams that assess the candidate’s ability to place, consolidate, finish, edge, joint, cure, and protect concrete flatwork.

A recognised occupational safety and health administration certification typically focuses on the construction and general industry standards, work-environment-related health issues and physical hazards, and the proactive safety and health procedures to be implemented by the employer.

In addition to the earlier-mentioned qualifications, earnest Concrete Finishers consider acquiring an accredited construction skills certification before working on a construction site. Pre-requisites usually include completion of training by an authorised construction industry board and passing a health, safety, and environment test.

Concrete Finishers may also need to undergo an employment background check, including but not limited to a person’s work history, education, credit history, motor vehicle reports (MVRs), criminal record, medical history, use of social media, and drug screening.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive the career progression of Concrete Finishers who can aspire to become Site Managers in the same company or other construction firms. After acquiring the requisite qualifications, moving into a planning or engineering role or working for government agencies and local authorities is possible.

The desire to accelerate career growth and personal development has an increasing number of millennials choosing to job hop and build a scattershot resume that showcases ambition, motivation, and the desire to learn a broad range of skills.

Studies prove that job hopping, earlier dismissed as “flaky” behaviour, can lead to greater job fulfilment. Employees searching for a positive culture and exciting work are willing to try out various roles and workplaces and learn valuable, transferable skills along the way.

Physically fit Concrete Finishers with excellent colour vision, manual dexterity, knowledge of hand-held and power tools, and the ability to work at heights, stand or kneel for long periods, lift heavy materials, work long hours, and work in shifts during nights, weekends, and holidays, have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, 

formal education, or self-directed learning. 

Larger companies with adequate resources prefer to train new hires on-the-job, while smaller organisations may seek employees with relevant experience or provide educational assistance.

Enterprising and dedicated Concrete Finishers may find that accredited certification in construction management can work wonders in achieving their ambition to become Site Managers.

Attend industry events and trade shows to build connections with and learn about new techniques, materials, and technologies from professionals in the continuously-evolving construction field. Trade publications also enable one to stay informed about industry trends and advancements.

In addition to offering the opportunity to continually upskill, regardless of one’s age, job, or level of knowledge, CPD also enables the periodic renewal of desirable certifications, which increase your chances of advancement and becoming an independent consultant.

Tools of the Trade

Concrete Finishers use manual and power tools, including trowels, floats, straight edges, joiners, screeds, saws, and drills. They may also need to operate large machines, such as cranes, bulldozers, concrete mixers, backhoes, bobcats, and whacker-packers.

Fast Facts

Ancient Romans used a mixture of volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius, lime, and seawater to form concrete. The 2,000-year-old Roman Pantheon, made entirely out of concrete, weathered earthquakes and other natural disasters without the reinforcing support of structural steel.

The British erected parabolic acoustic mirrors or concave concrete listening ears to detect the sound of approaching German aircraft, predict their flight trajectories, and provide ground forces ample time to prepare British defences.

The 185m high and 2,309m long Three Gorges Dam on China’s Yangtze River took 17 years, USD37 billion, and 21 million cubic yards of concrete. Its reservoir holds as much water as Lake Superior and can generate an incredible 22,500 MW of power.

Current Scenario

The employment outlook of a particular profession may be impacted by diverse factors, such as the time of year, location, employment turnover, occupational growth, size of the occupation, and industry-specific trends and events that affect overall employment.

New development projects and the need to repair ageing roadways may contribute to the increased demand for accomplished Concrete Finishers.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Concrete Finishers have more flexible work schedules and locations. They fully own the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, full-time Concrete Finishers have company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

Twice as much concrete, more than 10 billion tonnes per annum, is used in construction compared to all other building materials.

Accomplished Concrete Finishers play a crucial role in transforming dull, grey concrete into mesmerising masterpieces that are safe, practical, and meet the project’s specifications.

Concrete Finishing is an art that requires patience and precision. Rushing through the process can lead to mistakes that can prove tricky to rectify.