If you have decided to lay your own paving there are a number of steps required to avoid issues:
• Make a Form: Many people think they can just pour the concrete and be done with it. However you have to create a form that will keep the concrete contained when you pour it. A form has to be secure and also square in order to be effective. You can use 2” x 4” wood. You can then drill it together using 3” screws. This will allow you to pour your concrete and keep it contained and even. Use a level to get it nice and even and make sure it sits flat on the ground to avoid leakage.
• Staking: Once you have your form in place you will have to stake the form so it doesn’t move. You can buy concrete stakes or you can use anything stable that you can jam into the ground such as rebar. Your stakes should be pounded into the ground flush against your form to hold it in place.
• Mixing Tips: Consider using a ready to mix concrete so you do not have to worry about getting the proper balance. If you want it to dry quickly and don’t need to work it you can add less water. The more water you add the longer it will take to dry and the easier it will be to work. Just remember it has to be relatively thick and wet to set properly. Your best bet is to follow the instructions. An electric concrete mixer and a wheelbarrow can be rented for the best results.
• Pouring the Cement: Be careful not to run over your stakes or bang into the form with the wheelbarrow and do not fill it right to the top as you do not want the concrete to set to the form edges.
• Smoothing and Curing: For best results smooth the cement with a trowel. Concrete will take about 24 hours to cure and to be safe you can wait 36 before removing the form. If it looks like it may rain you will have to cover the concrete with plastic or a large tarp or it will have trouble setting. Do not walk on the surface until it is completely cured and the form has been removed.
It takes a lot of patience to avoid difficulties such as cracking and poor integrity due to poor mixing. These tips will help you with your DIY paving project.
When you are in need of paving services you can depend on Vallencourt Inc. can help.
