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DIY Concrete Patio: A Step-by-Step Guide

Want to create an amazing outdoor space? Follow this guide to learn how to build a DIY concrete patio using large concrete pavers.

Creating the Perfect Chill Spot

Transform any corner into the perfect chill spot by creating large concrete pavers. These pavers can be used for walkways or patio spaces.

Planning and Preparation

Mapping the Project

The project should be mapped out on paper first. This helps to get an idea of what’s needed when picking up lumber.

Lumber Preparation

When lumber is picked up, clamp it and let it sit until ready for use. After measuring and marking the parts, use a circular saw to cut all the parts needed.

Frame Construction

Build three massive frames to use as forms. Initially, nails were used, but screws were later chosen. This is more efficient when working solo. Once the large frame is built, create smaller frames inside. The inner frames are measured at 46 by 46. Using long two by fours makes things faster and easier to keep the entire frame level. After the first frame is completed, make two more.

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Image credit: Pexels/Max Vakhtbovycn

Site Preparation

Leveling the Ground

The location should be picked and flattened as much as possible. Since the yard is at a pitch, a decent amount of digging is needed.

Positioning Frames

Bring out the frames and position them. Some stakes need to be cut to hold the form in place. At this point, ensure the frames are in the exact position that is desired.

Securing the Form

Take the stakes and drive them in right up against the frames. The way the frame was built clarifies this approach.

Leveling the Form

Before going on to level the form, screw the frames together. Once the frames are connected, attach them to the stakes.

A four foot level is needed. Level the outside frame first, then work towards the middle.

Filling the Form

Take some of the excess dirt around and put it back into the form. Since only people are going to walk on top of these, there’s no need to make them the full thickness of a 2×4. This way it is possible to save on the amount of concrete that is needed. Compact these as much as possible.

Adding Leveling Sand

Now that the inside is built up, go one step further and use some leveling sand. Put about two bags per square to help achieve the thickness that is needed. Then give it some more compacting.

Achieving the Desired Thickness

Make sure the edge is thicker than the middle. Overall, each slab should have a thickness of around 2 inches. Some boxes are a bit deeper than this, but typically, there are around two inches between the level and the sand. That should be plenty of thickness for the concrete.

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Image credit: Pexels/Shawn k

Concrete Mixing and Pouring

Setting Up the Mixing Area

Bring all the cement to the back to set up the mixing area. The concrete will be poured over in the prepared forms.

Mixing Concrete

A concrete mixer is needed, with the right proportion of water. Let the machine mix, then get it over into the forms. Start off with one bag to see how that works out, if it works out pretty good, then do two at a time. Put three and a half quarts of water per bag.

Alternative Mixing Methods

If you don’t have a mixer, consider alternatives. You can use a wheelbarrow or a mixing tub. Going this route is a bit more labor intense, but it’s still possible. The other option is to rent one of these mixing machine or purchase one, use it for all concrete projects, and sell it later.

Pouring Concrete

Three tools could have made things a bit easier: a bull float, a placer, and a mag float. Nonetheless, a way to work around that can be found. Use a trowel to smooth the top over before moving on to the next slab. After about an hour or so, come back to it and go over it one more time.

Smoothing and Finishing

Just vibrate the corner to make sure all the cavities are filled. Once done, lines may be visible, but don’t worry about it. Go back to the first pour and add a smooth layer on top. It’s been about an hour’s time since the first slab was poured. It may be possible to wait a little longer, but it’s nearing a state where a finish can be put on.

Form Removal and Final Steps

The middle section is poured last. The perimeter is taken off, then the middle section is released. Lift it up so the screws can be released to take these dividers off in the middle. The other piece is left in place. Push the form back down, and then make the pour. There’s probably an easier way to do this, but at the moment this is the best way.

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Image credit: Pexels/Rene Terp

Removing the Lumber

Repeat the process by removing all of the two by fours. Do this carefully to avoid chipping any of the edge on the concrete. The forms were designed specifically so the screws can be accessed to pull the form off. Do the same thing on the other side, and then pop this middle piece out.

Cost Savings and Project Summary

If you were to hire this job out, you’d be looking at fifteen hundred to three thousand dollars. The entire project was completed for right around 400 in materials, not including tools, and a whole lot of labor.

Conclusion: Completing the Space

To wrap up, the steps taken to create a DIY concrete patio have been outlined. The next part to this project involves completing the entire space and showing how it is planned to be used.

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