How to Lay a Concrete Pad
More in Outdoors
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Excavate the Area
Mark the edge of the area with a spade, cutting down into the grass. Dig down to the required depth recommended by your local code department. Include slab depth and crushed stone in your calculations.
Build Wooden Frame
Level pegs around the site to the depth of the concrete pad plus foundations. Nail boards into the pegs. Insert further level pegs and boards to divide the slab into manageable strips. This wooden frame is known as the formwork.
Add Crushed Stone
Lay a 4-inch layer of crushed stone in the bottom of all the formwork and compact with a roller or rented vibrator compactor.
Pour Concrete
Pour foundation concrete into the first section. Use a screed board in a chopping motion to compact it, then level the surface.
Smooth Concrete
Use a float to smooth the surface of the concrete. For large areas, consider renting a power float or screed.
Cover With Plastic Sheet
Cover the pad with a plastic sheet to protect it from the weather. You can remove the formwork once the concrete has hardened.
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Excerpted from Do It Yourself Home Improvement
© Dorling Kindersley Limited 2009
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