DIY: Concrete Slab

Concret Slab

Since pouring your own concrete slab is a do-it-yourself project, the cost is significantly less than hiring a professional. This project should not be too hard for the do-it-yourself person with the proper planning. One thing to consider is whether you will have electrical or plumbing conduit in the slab. Everything needs to be thought through and considered before actually pouring the concrete.

Things You'll Need

• Wooden stakes
• Hammer
• Shovel
• Mason's string
• 1-by-4 Lumber
• 2-by-4 Stud
• Steel wire mesh
• Side cutting pliers
• Tie wire
• 4-inch Level or laser
• Darby

Instructions

Lay Out the Slab's Location

1. Mark the slabs boundary by driving stakes at the corners and connect stakes with string. Make sure the lines are square.

2. Prepare the slabs location. Remove any grass and level dirt inside the boundary.

3. Trench the footing. Dig one foot wide and six inches deep around the the perimeter inside the string line.

4. Install steel mesh inside the footing. Secure it together with pliers at the intersections with tie wire.

5. Build your form. Use 1-by-4 boards for the forms sides. Nail the form together. Drive stakes snugly against the sides every 16 inches outside the form. Nail stakes to side of the form.

6. Pour the concrete beginung at one end of form. Use a shovel to move the concrete evenly.

7. After filling the form, level it with the edge of a 2-by-4. Push and pull it in a sawing motion across the top of the form. Start at one end and work it down to the opposite end.

8. Take a Darby and use smooth, overlapping arcs. Push down to remove lumps.

9. When the concrete dries, remove the form and discard.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have to wade out into the concrete, wear rubber boots.

References

• Suite 101: Pouring a Concrete Slab Using Cement to Build the Floor for a Patio, Shed, or Carport
• Do It Yourself Life: Perpetual Remodeling Syndrome: Pour a patio slab