Learn the basics of how to screed concrete or how to screed sand and gravel for masonry units.

Screeding also redistributes and removes excess material.

Screeding is not the final finish.

Man screeding concrete

elenaleonova / Getty Images

Finishing is the work of the bull float, a long-handled tool with a smooth, broad metal head.

The float draws fine aggregate and cement up to the surface of the slab.

Aluminum screeds are often used where precision is needed, as they provide a straighter edge.

A person using wood board to screed concrete.

The Spruce / Debbie Wolfe

Masonry Base Screed Tools

A two-by-four is often used as a screed for DIY walkway projects.

The sand/gravel surface is more forgiving than the concrete surface.

Minor imperfections will be covered by the masonry units.

Mortared Stone Pathway 1000 x 1500

CC-Licensed; Flickr User Arnold Masonry & Landscape

One trick to keep screeding consistent is to lay out 1-inch PVC pipes before dumping the sand.

After screeding, carefully remove the PVC pipes and fill in the depressions with loose sand.

It’s always a good idea to trowel the loose sand to smooth out the filled-in areas.

Screeding Concrete or Masonry With an Assistant

Working with an assistant is critical for perfect screeding.

The screed tool will help to smooth out your knee and shoe depressions, but not entirely.

So, it’s best not to kneel in the sand in the first place.

In addition, screeding tools can be hard to handle.

Screeding a 3-foot-wide walkway is manageable by one person.

You’ll need two peopleone at each endto control this heavier, larger tool.