Abstract: Processes for reducing deformation of concrete are provided herein. In some instances, the processes may include applying a moisture control membrane layer to control moisture loss of the concrete, applying an intermediate layer to the moisture control membrane layer, and applying a finish layer to the moisture control membrane layer to create a substantially level upper surface.

Abstract: A floor dressing spreader includes an elongated handle and an elongated back-up plate. The elongated handle is secured to the back-up plate and extends generally upwardly therefrom. Front and rear attachment plates are disposed adjacent lower portions of the back-up plate and a resilient flexible spreader element is clamped between an attachment plate and the back-up plate. The spreader extends downwardly beyond the lower edge of the back-up plate for spreading the concrete dressing material. The resilient spreader is preferably composed of a material which is flexible and resiliently deformable such as a rubber material.

Abstract: Several embodiments of trowels which have an elongated handle and a pair of generally facing weights or a weight or weights and a connector between which a pair of blades are secured with one blade being of lesser height than the other to thereby resist undesired flexing of the other blade. In another embodiment, in lieu of having a second blade, a second weight which is disposed on the opposite side of the blade from the handle, has a downward extension which limits flexing of the blade. In a further embodiment, a blade is a two component blade and has a detachable and replaceable cutting edge. The weights and connector serve a multiple purpose of securing the upper end of the blades therebetween, facilitating downward pressure when the trowel is in use and in some embodiments through either a second blade or an extension of a weight for limiting the amount of flexing of the blade.

Abstract: A method of selecting color of tile grout providing at least one partially transparent card having a first color band thereon, placing the card over an array of tiles with the color band generally overlying the grout and visually comparing the first color band and the tile color to facilitate selecting a grout color. A second color band oriented angularly with respect to the first band may be employed so as to provide a pair of color bands overlying the intersecting grout areas. Corresponding sets of cards are disclosed.

Abstract: A floor includes a substrate and an image, with the image being visible from above the floor. The image is formed on a carrier sheet that is embedded within a coating disposed upon an upper surface of the substrate. The coating is substantially translucent and is highly durable. The carrier sheet becomes substantially invisible when embedded in the coating such that the image remains visible from above the floor and appears to be embedded therein. An associated method is also disclosed.