Finished Look for Concrete

Silkcityflorida · 12-01-2011, 01:25 PM

I have poured some concrete (Sakrete) forms as bases for lamp posts. The electrical conduit and wires were in place first. So are J-Bolts with which to secure the lamp posts.

Now, I seem to recall somewhere in the recesses of my brain (I think the last time I did anything with concrete was about 40 years ago...) that it is possible to apply a coat of special concrete or similar material to give your work a smooth, finished look, one in which you can also apply a bevel to the edges for aesthetic purposes. I think I would like to do that to the visible portion of these bases before I mount the lamp posts.

1. What is the technique called, and what material do I use?

2. Is this advisable? Will such material eventually crack and crumble?

3. I assume that with the application of this material, I will be able to ensure a sort of "final correction" to any leveling issues. Correct?

Answers will be greatly appreciated.

joed · 12-01-2011, 01:32 PM

It's done with a trowel and edging tools when the concrete is poured. If the concrete is hardened you are stuck with what you see.

Bondo · 12-01-2011, 01:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Silkcityflorida

I have poured some concrete (Sakrete) forms as bases for lamp posts. The electrical conduit and wires were in place first. So are J-Bolts with which to secure the lamp posts.

Now, I seem to recall somewhere in the recesses of my brain (I think the last time I did anything with concrete was about 40 years ago...) that it is possible to apply a coat of special concrete or similar material to give your work a smooth, finished look, one in which you can also apply a bevel to the edges for aesthetic purposes. I think I would like to do that to the visible portion of these bases before I mount the lamp posts.

1. What is the technique called, and what material do I use?

2. Is this advisable? Will such material eventually crack and crumble?

3. I assume that with the application of this material, I will be able to ensure a sort of "final correction" to any leveling issues. Correct?

Answers will be greatly appreciated.

Ayuh,... While Joed is Right, it's usually all done when the mud is just poured,...

You might get satisfactory results doin' what ya wanta do, with Mason's Mortar, Type "S", or maybe Hyd. Grout....
Either of which, may, or may not crack, 'n crumble...
Of course, Either of which, may last for many a year...

I've done a few things with Hyd. Grout, that I was told won't work, but as of 6 years, 'n runnin',...
I'm still Happy with it...

jomama45 · 12-01-2011, 07:18 PM

NS grout would likely hold up just fine, but the problem with it is that it's self-leveling, regardless of how dry you mix it, which makes it difficult to shape. You would likely need to build a form first and let it set-up for a while before removing.