What is a Bull Float?

A bull float is a concrete finishing tool that smooths fresh concrete surfaces. It features a long handle attached to a flat wood, aluminum or magnesium piece called a float. A bull float is used after the cement has been pressed down, or tamped. Bull floats are considered a basic and essential concrete finishing tool. The handle of a bull float can measure anywhere from 4 feet (1.2 m) to 16 feet (4.9 m) long. Handles may be a threaded or a snap in type. The float includes an attachment that accepts one of the handle styles. A universal adapter that fits either a snap or threaded handle can be purchased at many tool supply stores. A bracket assembly on the bull float allows the angle to be adjusted to different positions so that the float can reach the concrete surface at the particular angle needed for each job. The float is available in many different lengths, but the width is usually 8 inches (20.3 cm). The ends of the float may be circular or rectangular in shape. A bull float ...  more