Concrete
Bleed Water
Water that rises to the surface of freshly placed concrete as heavier aggregates and cement particles settle downward.
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In the Field
Never finish a slab while bleed water is still on the surface — you will trap water under the top layer and create a weak, dusty surface that flakes. Wait for the water sheen to disappear before troweling.
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Rule of Thumb
If you see a water sheen on the surface, stop finishing. Finishing over bleed water is the leading cause of surface delamination and scaling on slabs.