How to Precast Concrete Patio Pieces

Precasting your own concrete patio pieces is moderately easy. It requires a few hours of time and the result is a stylish paver or brick patio installation you designed yourself. Only minor casting techniques are required. Both shaped, square or completely customized pieces cast well in concrete. Focus on designing yours to suit your landscape and tastes.

Things You'll Need

• Concrete mold
• Mold release compound
• Concrete
• Water
• Tamping tool

Instructions

1. Brush concrete mold release compound around the inside of your concrete mold with a typical house paintbrush. Cover all of the areas where the concrete will contact the mold form.

2. Mix concrete in a wheel barrow or 5-gallon bucket following the product to water ratio listed on your particular concrete. Use either a sand and cement mixture (one part sand, one part concrete) and water or a mixture that you prefer. Typical masonry cement mixes do the job, as well.

3. Pour the concrete mixture into the mold. Fill it completely. Let it settle for an hour. Tamp down with a flat edge tamping tool to remove air bubbles as the concrete dries and cures.

4. Turn the concrete mold upside down over a soft surface, such as grass or a cloth, and gently tap the bottom until the new patio piece slides out.

Tips & Warnings

• Repeat the process as needed. Rinse and reuse molds to make as many patio pieces as you like.

References

• DIYAdvice: Making Concrete Patio Stones

Resources

• Makersgallery: Concrete Molds and Mixes