Temecula Concrete Patios: Help On Building Your New Concrete Patio

Looking to build a concrete patio? There are plenty of fine reasons for building this: durability, functionality, simplicity, to name a few. However, building a concrete patio tends to be a bit tougher than it might seem. Before you get this task started, here are a few tips that you'll want to know.

Proper Planning

Make certain you don't get part way in to the project and then discover you do not have the proper materials. You'll need to rent an automatic cement mixer and plan on 1 bag of cement for every 2 square feet (6 inches thick). Acquire correct measurements.

Excavation

This is a key initial step. Appropriate slope is crucial to prevent pooling and runoff from flooding your entry ways and damaging your foundation. Slope away from the dwelling at a rate of 1 inch for every 4 feet. Extra time spent on proper excavation saves you time, money, stress, and much more in the years to come.

Building a Form

The form will encase 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

Install a layer of gravel, tamping it down firmly, and then use flat rocks to support your rebar, which should be placed near the halfway point (thickness) of your concrete slab. Make a grid with rebar every two feet from front to back and left to right. Utilize wiring to fasten spots where rebar crosses.

Pouring the Concrete

Once mixed correctly (consistent in color and consistency) pour the concrete beginning at the end furthest from your mixer. Pour as steadily as possible- this is where correct preparation will save you time and a migraine! Level the surface of the concrete with a screed by sliding it over the top of the form boards and removing the excess. Cut control joints every 3-4 feet with a mason's trowel. Use a board to ensure a straight cut. Look for a watery layer 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 laying a plastic sheet over it to seal in moisture. This plastic will need to be left in place for roughly 1 week. You'll then want to prevent any major stress to the patio for at least the initial 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 definitely something that you can do on your own, as long as you have the time, patience, and know-how. There are scores of other articles available 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 option much more appealing. If you do tackle the project yourself, just make certain that you have all needed supplies and have done proper preparation before you get started.

By: Gary Gunia

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Being adequately informed is critical when building a concrete patio. Contact Temecula concrete patio specialists, Al Landscape Design and Construction for more useful information at 951-837-8420