Tips & Concrete Calculator
Durable Driveways
Carports
Footings
Patios
Sidewalks
Slabs
Dog Runs
Mailbox Pads
Garage Floors, etc.
For Quality Concrete Around the Home, We Recommend…
Planning
Thickness
4 inches is generally enough for parking areas and driveways. Depending upon traffic use, thicker sections may be required.
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Base
Compacted earth may be entirely adequate as a base for residential concrete; however, where expansive clays are present a select base material should be imported..
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Drainage
Surface of the finished slab should slope at least 1/8 inch per foot away from structures. A slope of 1/4 inch per foot is best.
Preparation
Excavating
Be sure to take out all organic matter sludge, leaves, tree roots, wood, etc. Don’t dig deeper than you need to.
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Compaction
Soil on which concrete is to be placed must be compacted uniformly and evenly so the slab won’t settle and won’t vary in thickness.
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Forms
Stake securely. Scrape loose base away from forms so edges will be at least full thickness. You can form a 4″ slab with 2×4’s.
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Isolation
Before concrete is delivered, install pre-molded joint material wherever flatwork comes against buildings, steps, walls, existing slabs, etc. This is so the new concrete slab will be separated from the structures. Joint material must extend all the way to the bottom of the slab.