Which finishing sequence is commonly used for interior slabs to achieve a smooth surface?

• A. Screed, strike-off, bull float, grind.
• B. Pour, cure, sand, seal.
• C. Screed, bull float, strike-off, light trowel, and final finish.
• D. Screed, bull float, strike-off, grind, final finish.

Answer: (D)

Achieving a smooth interior slab surface comes from a sequence that progressively levels, compacts, and refines the top layer as the concrete gains strength. Start with screed to bring the surface to the desired elevation and establish a true plane. Then use a bull float to consolidate the mix, bring the cream to the surface, and begin smoothing out ridges without sealing the surface too early. The strike-off follows to further flatten and even the surface, removing excess material and ensuring flatness along the planned plane. Once the slab has stiffened enough, grinding is used to remove remaining high spots and micro-roughness, refining the texture before the final pass. The final finish then delivers the smooth, dense surface interior spaces require, often through a final trowel or burnish pass. This order minimizes defects and provides a uniform texture that’s suitable for interior conditions.