The American Concrete Institute (ACI) has launched a decorative concrete flatwork programme which allows individuals to earn a decorative concrete flatwork finisher and decorative concrete flatwork associate designations.
ACI says individuals are required to complete a written exam and maintain current certifications as an appropriate ACI-certified concrete flatwork finisher or technician. The certification also requires 1,500 hours of work experience.
The decorative exam covers basic knowledge of proper installation and finishing procedures for decorative concrete flatwork. Topics include:
- Colouring: Applying and finishing dry-shake hardeners, finishing integral color
- Stamping: Form layout, squaring formwork, pattern layout, release agents, texturing tool, finishing for texture application
- Exposed Finishes: Seeding aggregate, finishing for top surface retarder application, applying top surface retarders, washing the surface
- Stairs: forming, stamped finish, exposed finish, colored finish
- Cleaning/Sealing: Applying curing compounds and sealers, surface preparation for sealers
An ACI-certified decorative concrete flatwork associate may upgrade to ACI-Certified decorative concrete flatwork finisher at any time during the five-year certification period by fulfilling the work experience requirements, ACI adds.
More information is available here.
