Concrete Paving DIY

Concrete paving involves pouring a liquid, but fast-setting material into a form to create a hard surface. It is commonly performed to create sidewalks or driveways. Concrete paving is a job that many do-it-yourselfers can tackle with time and patience. It will require a multi-step process.

Step 1 – Gather Materials for Concrete Paving

A number of materials will be required to successfully handle a concrete paving job. Some of the items that will be necessary include:

• Lumber – This will be required to create forms within which to pour concrete while it hardens.
• Tamper – This is a tool that is used to help push the concrete into place.
• 2x4 – This can be used to level the concrete once it has been poured.
• Magnesium concrete rake – This tool will also help level the surface.
• Concrete – The amount required will depend on the space involved. A yard of concrete is enough to cover about 54 square feet of surface space at a depth of about 6 inches.

Step 2 – Prepare The Area For Concrete Paving

Before attempting to pour concrete paving, it is imperative to properly prepare the area. Old driveways, for example, will need to be broken up and removed. If the area is free from concrete, prepare it by removing plant material and leveling out the surface.

Step 3 – Creating the Forms for Concrete Paving

Concrete paving requires the construction of forms to hold the liquid material in place while it hardens. To do this make sure to:

• Dig – It is often best to build forms into a recessed surface. Dig down to the level selected and begin building the forms to fit the size and shape desired.
• Set temporary forms in place – It is a good idea to set temporary forms into place to make sure the grade is correct.
• Set permanent forms – Once the outline is correct, clamp or nail the forms into place.
• Put wire mesh in place – This should be placed in the excavation points in between individual forms.

If the forms must come out after the job is done, make sure to oil them heavily to allow for easier removal.

Step 4 – Pouring the Concrete Paving

Once concrete is mixed per manufacturer specifications, pour it into the form sections and use an expansion joint to allow for the changes weather may create in the medium. Once concrete is placed in a form, tamp it down and then level it out. A broom may be used to create a whisk pattern on top, as is common with sidewalks.
Installing concrete paving is not an easy job, it is one that can often be handled in-house. With time and attention to detail, a new driveway or sidewalk is within reach.