How to Pour Concrete Foundations
The actual pouring of a concrete foundation is not very difficult. The preparation work needed before the actual pouring is what requires the most effort and work. When pouring concrete, choose a day when the temperature is above 50 degrees with no rain in the forecast.
- Check with your local building codes for any permits you may need and also to determine any type of restrictions or laws, such as foundation thickness or anchor requirements.
- Determine which type of concrete you will be using. You can buy ready mixed concrete or the type that you mix yourself. If you have the equipment to mix it yourself, this can save you a lot of money. Of course, if you are pouring a large foundation for a big building. Having it brought in by truck already mixed would be your best option.
- Dig down into the soil to the desired depth required for your project. Generally, for a do-it-yourself foundation for a garden shed or garage, 3 inches is enough. If you are in need of a deeper dig, it is recommended that you get a professional in to do the job for you, as you will need to dig down about 3 feet.
- Build your form using two by four pieces of wood. Nail them together to make the size and shape you need for your building. Nail boards on top of one another to add height to your foundation.
- Use a level to check your work and be sure it is straight.
- Wet the area inside the forms with water from the hose.
- Pour your concrete inside the forms. Fill the entire inside for the forms with concrete.
- Use a hand tamper to tamp down the concrete. For a large area, you can rent a rolling tamper from many home improvement stores.
- Get a straight two by four to go over the concrete to further smooth it out.
- Cut joints once the concrete has hardened a little. Use a straight edged 2 foot x 8 foot plank to do this. Joints are necessary due to expansion and contraction.
- Finish your concrete as desired. You can smooth it with a trowel; you can also texture it by going over it with a broom. You can use a tool to make any design that you would like.
- Allow the concrete to dry and cure.