• Step 1:

   

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  Construct forms with 2x4 or 2x6 lumber, and secure in place by wood stakes and deck screws.

• Step 2:

   

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  Check the forms for level. 1/4” for every 12’ is sufficient to allow for rain run-off.

• Step 3:

   

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  Evenly spread 3” to 4” of all purpose gravel, and then level the gravel.

• Step 4:

   

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  Compact the gravel base using a tamper.

• Step 5:

   

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  Dampen the gravel base using a garden hose to prevent shrinkage cracking.

• Step 6:

   

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  Pour the concrete mix in evenly placed leads with the top of the concrete mounds 2” to 3” above the forms.

• Step 7:

   

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  Consolidate and distribute the concrete evenly using a hoe.

• Step 8:

   

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  Screed the concrete using a straight 2x4 by moving the board back and forth across the surface.

• Step 9:

   

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  Add concrete to any low areas and screed level.

• Step 10:

   

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  Once the concrete has lost its sheen, smooth the concrete surface using a wood float.

• Step 11:

   

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  Cut in control joints using a groover and straight-edge.

• Step 12:

   

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  Use an edging tool to consolidate and shape the edges of the slab.

• Step 13:

   

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  Freshly placed concrete should be water cured for a minimum of 3 to 5 days with a fine water mist.

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Watch this step-by-step slideshow to find out how to pour and finish a concrete slab on your home, such as a driveway or patio. When working with cement-based products, always wear eye protection and waterproof gloves.

• Step 1: Prior to placing concrete forms:
  (1.) Construct the form with 2×4 or 2×6 lumber, and secure in place by wood stakes and deck screws.
  (2.) Excavate the slab area to a depth of about 7”, allowing 3” for a gravel base and 4” for concrete.
• Step 2: Check the forms for level (1/4” for every 12’ is sufficient to allow for rain run-off). Patio and sidewalk forms should slope evenly away from structures.
• Step 3: Evenly spread 3” to 4” of QUIKRETE All Purpose Gravel and then level the gravel.
• Step 4: Compact the gravel base using a tamper. TIP: a solid sub-base will help prevent erosion and slab settling.
• Step 5: Dampen the gravel base using a garden hose to prevent shrinkage cracking especially in hot temperatures.
• Step 6: Pour the concrete mix in evenly placed leads; the top of the concrete mounds should be about 2” to 3” above the forms before leveling.
• Step 7: Consolidate and distribute the concrete evenly using a hoe. The surface of the concrete should be relatively flat and slightly above the form.
• Step 8: Screed the concrete using a straight 2×4 by moving the board back and forth across the surface of the concrete in a sawing motion to remove the excess concrete and smooth the surface.
• Step 9: Add concrete to any low areas and screed level.
• Step 10: Once the concrete has lost its sheen, smooth the concrete surface using a wood float in an arching motion. NOTE: use a stiff-bristle broom to create a non-slip broom finish (all broom strokes should be made in the same direction).
• Step 11: Cut in control joints using a groover and straight-edge (a 4” thick slab will require control joints a minimum of every 10’ in each direction). NOTE: control joints should be cut a minimum of 1/4 the depth of the slab.
• Step 12: Use an edging tool to consolidate and shape the edges of the slab. Several passes should be made in each direction for a smooth finish.
• Step 13: Freshly placed concrete should be water cured for a minimum of 3 to 5 days with a fine water mist. TIP: water curing can be eliminated by applying QUIKRETE Acrylic Concrete Cure & Seal immediately after finishing the concrete. Acrylic Cure & Seal can be applied with a roller, garden sprayer or a brush.

To find out more, visit www.quikrete.com.

Tags: , concrete, Quikrete, slab