Just realized how much a magnesium float changes the finish vs a resin one

For years I only used resin floats for everything. Thought they were the standard and never questioned it. Then last month on a job in Austin, the contractor handed me a magnesium float for the final pass on a stamped patio. Idk why but I was skeptical at first. The difference was wild though. The magnesium left a way smoother surface with way less effort than I ever got from resin. It also didn't drag or leave those little streaks that resin can do when the mix gets a bit stiff. I'm thinking about switching over for all my flatwork now. Has anyone else had better luck with one material over the other for certain types of pours?

2 comments

2 Comments

lucas_johnson17h ago

Hold up man, is it really that big of a difference? I mean I get that magnesium is lighter and all that but resin floats have been working fine for me for years. Seems like one of those things where people overthink it and convince themselves they need the fancy tool. Unless you're doing super high end stuff where every little mark matters I doubt the customer will ever notice. Plus resin ones are way cheaper and last longer if you ask me.

claire95811h ago

Keep in mind magnesium floats actually cost less than resin ones, not more. Lighter too, which helps when you're doing a big pour all day.