With many years of experience in manufacturing and using screed, we want to challenge misconceptions about screeding, provide practical education, and show you how effective screed can take your business to the next level. 

First of all, what is screed?  Screeding is one of the first steps after pouring wet concrete. This step in the finishing operation is the most important in producing a flat surface and takes place immediately after the placing of the concrete. It must be completed before excess bleed water appears on the surface. In reality, the better this step is performed, the better the final product.

It's common to think a 2x4 is all you need to screed. But is that really the best choice?Let's take a look at your different options for effective screeding.

What it is: 2x4 wooden board
How it works: By sea-sawing the board back and forth across the surface of the wet concrete to strike off the excess
Best uses: Levelling, on form only, primarily for striking off
General Info: No consolidation, Cheapest option

What it is: vibrating screed with interchangeable blade, operated by one person
How it works: Single operator pulls the unit across the surface of the concrete
Best uses: On form or freehand, Small to medium sized pads,
General Info: Decent consolidation, Cheapest option for vibrating screed, Reliable

What it is: Customizable-length vibrating screed
How it works: Segments are spanned across the pad to rest on either form, unit is either pulled/self-propelled across concrete
Best uses: On form only, Small to large pads, Capable of crowning and concave/convex forming
General Info: Incredible consolidation (guaranteed 12" but up to 21"), Very Reliable

What it is: Screed machine on extendable arm
How it works: Using lasers as guides via external laser level, screed automatically levels concrete
Best uses: No form required, Medium to extra-large pads,
General Info: High consolidation, Most expensive, Unable to crown or concave/convex form, Most precise

So now that we've got a pretty clear understanding of what these methods are, let's take a closer look at how they compare.

If you work with concrete, you probably already have your favourite methods. Tell us in the comments! If you are new to concrete and want to learn more, contact Bartell Global to talk to one of our knowledgeable salespeople or product trainers. Or download our equipment catalog below...