13 Essential Tools for Commercial Concrete Contractors: A Comprehensive Guide

Having the correct tools is important when working on projects with raw concrete. The right tools not only help you finish your job faster, but they also make sure that you stay safe at the work site. To ensure you're fully prepared for your next concrete project, here are 13 important tools you should have with you.

1. Mixers

Mixers are really important for commercial concrete contractors. The main reason is that they help mix the concrete properly, which is necessary to make it strong and long-lasting. If you plan on using something other than ready-made concrete from a supplier, having a mixer is necessary to mix your concrete on-site.

2. Wheelbarrows

Wheelbarrows are one of the most useful tools when working with commercial paving. They come in handy for transporting small amounts of concrete to different areas of the site. Wheelbarrows can also be used to carry tools, samples, or waste, making them versatile for various tasks on the job site. 

With the help of a wheelbarrow, you can easily move concrete or other materials without exerting excessive effort.

3. Gloves, Work Boots, and Safety Glasses

Keeping yourself safe is crucial when working with unfinished concrete. Raw concrete mixes have chemicals that can hurt your skin if they touch it for a long time. That’s why wearing rubber gloves, waterproof rubber work boots, and safety glasses are important. 

Wearing rubber gloves is very important to protect your skin from burns and irritation caused by concrete. Not only should you protect your skin, but you also need to take care of your feet when working with raw concrete. You can wear waterproof rubber work boots. 

Moreover, safety glasses are necessary on any job site, especially when dealing with raw concrete. These glasses shield your eyes from debris and other dangers. 

These types of protective equipment can help prevent skin problems, foot injuries, and eye accidents, thus creating a safer and more productive work environment.

4. Shovels

Shovels can do many different jobs and are very helpful throughout the project. Shovels can level the ground to make it smooth and even before pouring concrete. They're also useful for filling in gaps that will appear after the concrete is poured, ensuring everything looks nice and neat.

Moreover, shovels can mix the concrete ingredients well so it turns out just right. If there are any spills or messes while working, shovels can clean them up easily. They're versatile tools that can handle all sorts of tasks during concrete work.

5. Digging Bar

A digging bar is a handy tool for breaking up hard ground. If you encounter compacted or tough soil that needs to be excavated, the digging bar comes to the rescue. It allows you to exert force and break up the ground effectively.

In addition, the digging bar is handy for creating larger gaps or holes in the soil as required for your concrete project. It provides the necessary leverage to dig deeper and widen the gaps to accommodate your concrete needs. Whether you need to create space for footings, posts, or other elements, the digging bar can help you achieve the desired results.

6. Screeds

Screeds are used to level the concrete surface after being poured. Using a screed ensures that the concrete is evenly distributed and smooth, resulting in a more professional finish.

It's important to note that screeds come in different sizes. The size of the screed will depend on the area you are working on and the thickness of the concrete you are pouring. The proper size screed can achieve better control and accuracy throughout the levelling operation.

7. Vibrators

Vibrators remove air pockets and excess water from the poured concrete. You can make sure that the concrete is compressed and free of voids by using a vibrator.

There are different types of vibrators available, and the choice depends on your specific needs. Some vibrators are handheld, while others are attached to a motor or a machine. The selection of the vibrator will depend on the size of the project, the desired level of compaction, and the accessibility of the concrete.

8. Tape Measures

A tape measure helps measure the depth of slabs, the size of forms, and the placement of various elements during pouring. It's also useful for marking joints and checking their placement before concrete hardening. Choose a high-quality tape measure with a clear display for accurate measurements.

9. Vapour Retarders

Vapour retarders are barriers that control evaporation on a concrete surface. They're usually made of plastic or synthetic materials, preventing water from reaching the finished surface during mixing. This is important in damp or humid environments to avoid strength and durability issues with the concrete.

10. Saws

Concrete joints often need to be cut while the concrete is set, and saws are essential for this task. There are different types of saws, like circular, reciprocating, and masonry saws. Choose the one that suits your needs.

11. Floats

After screeding, the concrete surface can still have small gaps or imperfections. Floats like bull and mag floats can fill these gaps and create a smoother finish. They're usually made of wood or metal and are used to smooth and level the concrete surface.

12. Groove Cutters

Creating grooves on the concrete surface helps prevent cracking and shrinkage and gives it a smoother look. Groove cutters are specialized tools for making precise, evenly spaced grooves on the concrete surface. They're typically used after the concrete hardens but before it fully cures.

13. Pail and Bucket

Lastly, a pail and bucket are indispensable for any concrete mixing project. They're essential for mixing, transporting, and storing concrete and are usually made of sturdy materials like plastic or metal. Pails and buckets are also helpful for adding water to the concrete mix to control its consistency and workability.