To level concrete effectively, which tool should you use?

To level concrete effectively, using a concrete float is essential because it helps to smooth and finish the surface of the poured concrete after it has been screeded. The concrete float has a flat base and handle that allows you to work the surface of the concrete, eliminating imperfections and providing a uniform texture. When using a float, you can also lift the cream, or the wetter top layer of the concrete, to create a more finished surface.

While the screed board is primarily used to level freshly poured concrete by dragging it across forms to create an even surface, it is the concrete float that is best suited for finishing and smoothing that surface after the initial leveling has been done. The leveling bar typically helps in moving and distributing concrete but does not finish it, and the concrete finishing trowel is meant for the final touches once the concrete has partially set, rather than for the initial leveling process. Therefore, for the specific task of leveling concrete effectively, the concrete float is the appropriate choice.