Which finish option is used for tilt-up slab surfaces?

• A. Broom Finish
• B. Float Finish
• C. Exposed Aggregate
• D. Hard Trowel

Answer: (D)

The finish goal here is to create a durable, smooth surface on tilt‑up slabs that can serve as a floor or be easily finished/coated. A hard trowel finish achieves that by actively smoothing and compacting the concrete while it is still plastic, producing a dense, wear‑resistant surface with low porosity. This makes it ideal for tilt‑up slabs that will be walked on, coated, or used as interior floors, where a clean, long‑lasting finish is important.

Broom finish would be chosen for a textured surface to improve slip resistance, often on exterior or non‑bearing surfaces where texture is desired. A float finish is smoother than a broom but not as dense or hard as a troweled surface, and exposed aggregate is decorative, revealing stone or aggregate for a textured look. For a typical tilt‑up slab surface intended as a floor, hard trowel is the best fit.