How to Run a Concrete Vibrator

Concrete vibrators are used to settle freshly poured concrete. Newly poured concrete has air bubbles and air pockets. A concrete vibrator is used to settle the rocks in the concrete and eliminate any air pockets beneath the surface of the concrete. Concrete vibrators are often used along the inside edges of the concrete forms. Running the concrete vibrator along the edges of the forms eliminates rock pockets and results in a nice smooth finish when the forms are removed. You only need a little practice to run a concrete vibrator like a professional.

1) Pour the concrete between the concrete forms. Let the concrete build up until it is approximately a foot deep before you apply the vibrator. You want to vibrate the concrete in layers, especially in footings.

2) Depress the trigger on the vibrator as you sink the head of the concrete vibrator deep into the concrete near the inside edge of the form. Vibrate in one area for around ten seconds before moving to the next spot. You want to keep the vibrator head about three or four inches away from the inside edge of the form. If you vibrate against the form you will have a pocket in the finish of the concrete when you remove the forms.

3) Move the vibrator along the inside perimeter of the form. Move the vibrator along the forms at a distance of about 12 to 18 inches between one spot and the next. You want the areas vibrated to overlap each other. Move the head of the vibrator up and down as you go to completely settle the concrete. Make sure the vibrator sinks deep into the concrete. Continue until the entire perimeter of the concrete form is vibrated.

Tip

Concrete vibrators are available for rent at most building supply stores and mason supply companies.

References

Northern Industrial Tools: Concrete Vibrator Owner’s Manual
Concrete Equipment Direct