DIY: Lay a concrete path
Before You Start
Mark out the size of the slab you require and multiply length (in metres) by width (in metres) by the desired thickness (in millimetres). From this volume you can calculate the number of EASY MIX bags you will need. Volume of slab in cubic metres x 66 = bags required (based on 30kgbags).
What you will need
Tools
- Shovel and rake
- Spirit level
- String line
- Tape measure
- Timber for boxing and screed
- Hammer/saw/nails
- Screedboard, trowel/float/edging tool Materials
- ...bags EASY MIX pre-blended concrete
- Water
Steps for concreting a slab
1. Prepare the site.
Dig the site for the slab to the required depth.
Most slabs are a minimum of 75mm (3").
Allow space around actual slab dimensions for the timber formwork placement. Use Easy Mix Multi-Purpose Sand as a bedding sand under the formwork if required.
2. Set the formwork.
Use lengths of timber to box the slab. The top of the boxing will act as the level of the top of the slab. Welded reinforcing mesh may also be added for extra strength. Ensure you allow for water run-off.
3. Prepare the pour.
Just before pouring concrete, thoroughly moisten the slab base area. This slows down moisture loss during curing and makes the slab stronger.
4. Mix pre-blended concrete.
On a flat wooden or metal surface, or in a large wheelbarrow, mix Easy Mix Concrete with water, one or two bags at a time. Each 30kg bag requires about 3.5 litres of water (2 to 2.5 litres of water is required for a 20kg bag). Add water slowly, mix thoroughly and do not wash out the cement powder. Shovel or pour the concrete into the formwork, then spread and tamp down with a shovel.
5. Install the slab.
Using a straight-edge board across the top of the formwork, 'screed' the concrete to the desired level. Work the screedboard across the slab from one end to the other in a sawing motion to bring the slab to its finished level. Fill any holes and screed again. Remove excess concrete if necessary. Leave the slab to set for 30 to 45 minutes (depending on weather conditions) before proceeding to Step 6.
6. Finish the slab.
For a non-slip finish (or if tiling over) use a wooden float in a circular motion across the slab. For a smooth finish a steel float should be used. Edges should be finished with an edging tool for best results.
7. Curing the slab.
To help the slab cure to full strength, cover with hessian cloth and keep moist for several days.
