How To: Patio Slabs
Pouring & Finishing Concrete Slabs
Concrete is one of the most economical, versatile and durable building materials available. Build a sidewalk, patio, or floor with QUIKRETE concrete mixes no matter your skill level.
Project Instructions
When working with cement-based products, always wear eye protection and waterproof gloves.
Step 1: Prior to placing concrete forms: Construct the form with 2x4 or 2x6 lumber and secure in place by wood stakes and deck screws. Excavate the slab area to a depth of about 7 inches, allowing 3 inches for a gravel base and 4 inches for concrete.
Step 2: Check the forms for level (¼ inch for every 12 feet 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 inches of QUIKRETE All Purpose Gravel and then level the gravel.
Step 4: Compact the gravel base using a tamper.
QUIK-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 inches 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 2x4 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-inch thick slab will require control joints a minimum of every 10 feet in each direction).
NOTE: control joints should be cut a minimum of ¼ 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.
QUIK-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.
