The American Concrete Institute has introduced a new decorative concrete flatwork certification to its programs. The program allows individuals to earn two designations: Decorative Concrete Flatwork Finisher and Decorative Concrete Flatwork Associate.

The Decorative Concrete Flatwork Finisher and Associate certifications require individuals to complete a written exam, and maintain current certifications as an appropriate ACI-Certified Concrete Flatwork Finisher or Technician. The Decorative Concrete Flatwork Finisher certification 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:

Coloring: 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.

The certification is offered through ACI’s global network of more than 120 sponsoring groups in local concrete communities. Additionally, the certification will be offered at the American Society of Concrete Contractors annual conference on September 20-23, 2018, in Charlotte, NC.

Learn more about ACI certification programs at whyACIcertification.org.