How long can concrete still be smoothed?

Hello,

Is it still possible to trowel or mechanically smooth cast concrete the next day?

Concrete has already reached about 30% of its "final strength" after one day.
It is not a linear process. However, smoothing will no longer be fun, but I could imagine that it is still feasible with (considerable) effort.

But: Sorry?!? Who "forgets" to smooth immediately during/after placing?





copy/paste (found via google):

Maturation process of concrete
Fresh concrete hardens in three stages:

[*]Liquid
[*]Maturing
[*]Hardening

Concrete is poured into the formwork in a liquid or plastic state. It is completely soft and only follows the laws of gravity. Concrete cannot be kneaded or piled up, but always flows and sinks along the path of least resistance. It retains this state for about 1 hour after mixing.

When the concrete "matures," it no longer flows but still has a moist and workable surface. The cement slurry can still be washed out. For example, exposed aggregate concrete is produced this way.

After about 24 hours, the concrete is fully hardened or set. Its surface can now only be worked on with heavy equipment and a lot of force. However, the industry also offers the appropriate tools for this hardness state.

well then ...

So no one has forgotten it. Almost all the construction companies advised me against it and said the concrete in the garage is already smooth enough without screed. Hmm, so it will probably come down to grinding after all.