Do's Order a quality concrete mix with the appropriate slump for proper placement required. Place concrete on a well-drained sub-grade that has adequate and uniform load-bearing characteristics. Grade the sub-grade so that the concrete is of uniform thickness and properly sloped for drainage. Vibrate or tamp and screed the concrete, then float it to the specified grade, flatness, and levelness. Texture all surfaces adequately and uniformly for slip resistance. Finish all surfaces within reasonably the same time after placement. Finish the edges first and do all hand-finishing in the same direction. Protect the concrete surface from rapid evaporation of bleed water. Use an approved curing compound for proper curing of concrete. Protect the freshly placed concrete from freezing for the first 72 hours. Dont's Don't use calcium chloride accelerators to achieve fast concrete set time. Don't order concrete in less than 3 yd3 (2 m3) increments. Full color consistency is not guaranteed. Don't place concrete on a sub-grade that is not thoroughly compacted and dampened. Don't place concrete over freestanding water or muddy, frozen or soft spots. Don't add water after a portion of the load has been discharged, or retemper concrete that has started to set. Don't sprinkle water, or otherwise add water to the surface during finishing operations. Don't use inconsistent finishing practices. Don't over-trowel (burn or burnish) the concrete surface. Don't use plastic sheeting to cure color concrete. Don't allow items to stand on concrete during the curing process.