Engineering Materials·MCQ explained

The operation of removing humps and hollows from a freshly placed concrete surface is known as:

Try it first: pick an option, then read the explanation.

Correct answer: B. Screeding

Detailed Explanation: Screeding — Removing Humps and Hollows

Why B (Screeding) is correct: Screeding is the first step in concrete surface finishing. A long straight-edge board (screed board or darby) is placed across the surface and moved forward with a sawing or zigzag motion to strike off excess concrete, fill low spots, and create a uniformly levelled surface.

How Screeding Works

FeatureDetail
ToolStraight-edge screed board (2–4 m long); darby; mechanical screed
MotionSawing or zigzag across the surface; moved progressively forward
PurposeRemove humps; fill hollows; set surface to required grade
When doneImmediately after concrete placement and consolidation (vibration)

Floor Finishing Sequence with Operations

StepOperationRemoves/Creates
1ScreedingRemoves humps and hollows; establishes level
2FloatingRemoves screed marks; embeds aggregate; closes surface
3TrowelingCreates final hard, smooth, dense surface
  • Screeding = first finishing step; removes humps and hollows; uses a straight-edge board.
  • Floating comes after screeding; troweling comes last.
  • Mechanical (vibrating) screeds combine screeding and initial compaction for road pavements.