What does "finishing" refer to in concrete placement?

"Finishing" in the context of concrete placement specifically refers to the process of treating the surface after the concrete has been poured. This stage is crucial as it impacts the appearance, durability, and functionality of the concrete surface. During finishing, various techniques are employed, such as smoothing, leveling, and texturing the surface to achieve the desired finish, which can range from a simple flat surface to decorative patterns.

The finishing process typically follows the initial set of the concrete, where proper timing is essential to avoid issues like surface defects. This involves using tools such as trowels, floats, and screeds to create a smooth, even surface while also ensuring that any necessary curing measures are taken to promote strength and durability.

While other options relate to various aspects of concrete work, such as pouring, applying joints, or reinforcing structures, they do not encapsulate the specific definition of finishing in this context. Finishing focuses solely on the surface treatment aspect following the concrete placement.