15 Must-Have Tools for Working with Raw Concrete

When it comes to tackling projects involving raw concrete, having the right tools can make all the difference. Not only can the right tools help you complete your job more efficiently, but they can also help ensure safety on the job site. To ensure that you have everything you need before starting your next concrete project, here is a list of 15 essential tools to have on hand.

1. Mixers

Mixers are an essential piece of equipment when working with raw concrete. Mixing the concrete properly helps ensure that it is highly durable and has maximum strength. Unless you plan on using ready-mix concrete from a producer like Mister Concrete, you'll need a mixer to properly mix your own concrete on-site.

2. Gloves

Raw concrete mixes contain caustic compounds that can be harmful to your skin if they come into contact with it for extended periods of time. Wearing rubber gloves can help protect your skin from concrete burns and other types of skin irritation.

3. Wheelbarrows

Wheelbarrows are useful for moving small amounts of concrete around a site and can also be used to transport tools, samples, or waste.
 

4. Workboots

Working with raw concrete can be tough on your feet, as the material is stiff and can easily damage regular boots. To protect your feet, it's important to wear waterproof rubber work boots while working with concrete.

5. Safety glasses

Safety glasses are a must-have on any job site, and this includes when working with raw concrete. They help protect your eyes from flying debris and other hazards and also allow you to work more efficiently.

6. Shovels

Shovels are an indispensable tool when working with raw concrete. They can be used to level grades, fill in gaps after a concrete pour, mix concrete, clean up spills, and much more.

7. Digging bar

A digging bar is a handy tool to have when you need to break up hard ground or create larger gaps in the ground. They also provide extra leverage when needed.

8. Screeds

Screeds are used to level concrete after pouring. They come in a range of sizes, so make sure to choose the right size for your project.

9. Vibrators

Vibrators can be used to release air pockets and excess water from a poured concrete mix. They're available in a variety of options, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.

10. Tape measures

As the saying goes, "measure twice, pour once." A tape measure is an essential tool for any concrete work. It can be used to measure the depth of slabs, the size of concrete forms, and the placement of various elements during the pouring process. It is also helpful for mapping out the location of joints and testing their placement before the concrete sets. In order to get the most accurate measurements, it is important to choose a high-quality tape measure with a clear and easy-to-read display.

11. Vapour retarders

Vapour retarders are barriers that help to control evaporation on a concrete surface. They are typically made of plastic or other synthetic materials and are used to prevent water from reaching the finished surface during the concrete mixing process. This can be particularly important in damp or humid environments, where excess moisture can lead to problems with the strength and durability of the finished concrete.

12. Saws

Concrete joints often need to be cut when the concrete is setting, and a saw is an essential tool for this purpose. There are several types of saws that can be used for cutting concrete, including circular saws, reciprocating saws, and masonry saws. Each type of saw has its own unique features and benefits, so it's important to choose the one that is best suited to your specific needs.

13. Floats

After the concrete has been screeded, there may still be small voids or imperfections on the surface. Floats, such as bull floats and mag floats, can be used to fill in these voids and create a smoother finish. These tools are typically made of wood or metal and are used to smooth and level the surface of the concrete.

14. Groove cutters

Grooving the surface of concrete can help to prevent cracking and shrinkage, and also gives the finished surface a smoother appearance. Groove cutters are specialized tools that are designed to create precise, evenly spaced grooves in the concrete surface. They are typically used after the concrete has hardened, but before it is fully cured.

15. Pail and bucket

Finally, no concrete mixing project can be complete without a pail and bucket. These tools are essential for mixing, transporting, and storing concrete, and are usually made of durable materials like plastic or metal. A pail and bucket can also be useful for adding water to the concrete mix when necessary, as the water can help to control the consistency and workability of the mix.

Conclusion:

If you’re looking to work with raw concrete, you need a set of 15 essential tools. These include mixers, gloves, wheelbarrows, work boots, safety glasses, shovels, digging bars, screeds, vibrators, tape measures, vapour retarders, saws, floats, groove cutters, and pails and buckets. So make sure to double-check your tool list before diving in.

But let's be real, who really wants to spend their time mixing and pouring concrete anyway? If you'd rather leave it to the professionals, consider using a ready-mix concrete producer like Mister Concrete. We have the experience and expertise to handle all your onsite concrete mixing needs, leaving you free to focus on more important tasks (like deciding on the perfect shade of grey).

• by: Mister Concrete
• 2023-01-07
• 70370 views