Concrete Pouring Tips
Concrete offers a cost-effective and structurally sound material for foundation walls and flatwork, such driveways and patios. Once poured, concrete can last for years and withstand heavy pressure. However, pouring concrete is backbreaking labor, even under the best conditions. Since wet concrete may set rapidly, preparation, experience and the correct tools are the keys to success.
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Planning
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Concrete rakes help spread the wet concrete.
Experienced concrete contractors schedule pours early in the day to allow their workers enough time to form the concrete as it sets. In the heat of the summer, pouring during the early morning hours when the temperatures are cooler may reduce the amount of water that must be added to the concrete to keep it from setting too quickly. As water is added to the concrete, the structural integrity of the finished product is reduced.
Having the necessary tools within reach allows the workers to quickly grab the tool they need and continue working the wet concrete. Shovels and concrete rakes spread the wet mixture while vibrators, screeds and floats level the pour and remove excess air from the concrete. Hand trowels form the edges of the concrete and a power trowel will provide a smooth surface on flatwork.
Access to water on the site is essential for spraying down concrete that is setting too quickly and for cleaning the concrete tools and washing up.
Pouring
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Wetting the sand in the bottom of the pour just before dumping the concrete will keep the concrete from drying too quickly, allowing the workers more time to shape and level the mixture. Spray lightly with a hose until the sand is damp but the water is not yet forming puddles.
Direct the concrete truck to back up as close as possible to the pour to reduce the labor needed to spread the concrete to far corners. The concrete truck has a long boom that extends to the back and sides and by starting at the far end and directing the truck to move forward as it dumps, you will reduce shoveling labor.
Recruiting enough workers will help the pour progress efficiently. Hard physical labor is required to pour all but the smallest concrete jobs. At least one person on the site should have extensive concrete experience and should direct each worker in the application of his or her job.
Safety
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Wet concrete leaches the moisture from human skin and contains chemicals that can burn the eyes. Wear safety goggles. Dress in long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, rubber boots and gloves to minimize skin contact with the concrete. A cap will reduce concrete splatters in the hair.
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