subject: Temecula Concrete Patios: Tips On Building a Own Concrete Patio [print this page] Temecula Concrete Patios: Tips On Building a Own Concrete Patio
Looking to build a concrete patio? There are plenty of excellent reasons for building this: durability, functionality, simplicity, to name a few. However, building a concrete patio tends to be a bit more challenging than it might seem. Before you get this project under way, here are a few tips that you'll need to know.
Proper Planning
Make certain you don't get half-way in to the project and then find out you do not have the right materials. You'll have to rent an automatic cement mixer and plan on 1 bag of cement for every 2 sq ft (6 inches thick). Acquire accurate measurements.
Excavation
This is a key initial step. Proper slope is needed to prevent pooling and runoff from flooding your doorways and harming your foundation. Slope away from the dwelling at a rate of 1 inch for every 4 feet. Extra time invested on proper excavation saves you time, money, stress, and much more in the years to come.
Building a Form
The form will hold the gravel and concrete. It must be sunk into the area where you will pour the concrete and the top of the form should have the preferred slope.
Gravel and Rebar
Put in a layer of gravel, tamping it down firmly, and then use level rocks to support your rebar, which should be placed near the middle (thickness) of your concrete slab. Design a grid with rebar every two feet from back to front and right to left. Utilize wiring to fasten spots where rebar crosses.
Pouring the Concrete
Once mixed well (uniform in color and consistency) pour the concrete beginning at the end farthest from the mixer. Pour as fast as possible- this is where correct preparation will save you time and a migraine! Smooth the surface of the concrete with a screed by sliding it across the top of the form boards and discarding the excess. Cut control joints every 3-4 feet with a mason's trowel. Use a board to reassure a straight cut. Look for a layer of water to appear (called a bleed) and wait for it to disappear before continuing. Lumps can be removed by using a float.
Curing
Your new concrete patio must be "cured" by putting a plastic sheet over it to trap in moisture. This plastic will need to be kept in place for roughly a week. You'll then want to avoid any major stress to the concrete for at least the first 3 weeks in order to prevent damage.
As a Temecula concrete patio specialist, we've done this countless times. From experience, we have learned that building a new concrete patio is certainly something that you can do yourself, as long as you posess the time, patience, and know-how. There are many other articles online with helpful tips but if you have never undergone a project such as this before, you may be smart to consult a professional. You may find that the cost vs. stress aspect could make the professional alternative much more appealing. If you do tackle the project yourself, just make sure that you have all needed supplies and have done proper preparation before you get started.
