Which of the following is NOT a step in the finishing process of concrete slabs?

Mixing with water is not a step in the finishing process of concrete slabs. The finishing process occurs after the concrete has been poured and is primarily focused on achieving a smooth, level surface and preparing the concrete for its intended use.

During the finishing process, various actions are taken to enhance the durability and aesthetic qualities of the slab. Floating involves using a tool to level out the surface, removing any imperfections and bringing the cream of the concrete to the surface. Jointing is the practice of creating planned cracks to control where the concrete might crack, helping to maintain the integrity of the slab over time. Troweling is the final step, smoothing the surface to create a dense, polished finish.

In contrast, mixing with water is part of the initial concrete preparation phase, where the dry ingredients (cement, aggregates, and additives) are combined with water to create a workable mixture. This step occurs long before the finishing activities begin, highlighting why it is not included in the finishing process.