POURING CONCRETE STEPS : POURING A CONCRETE PATIO : PART 2

Summary

In this video, Mike from EverythingAboutConcrete.com takes viewers through the process of pouring both concrete stairs and a patio. He shares expert tips on handling concrete, from achieving the right slump and using water reducers for durability to techniques for proper edge finishing and preventing cracking. Mike emphasizes precision and careful work, especially when creating concrete steps, ensuring smooth, long-lasting results. The video offers an inside look at the tools and methods used by seasoned professionals, making it an informative guide for anyone interested in learning concrete flatwork techniques.

Takeaways

• 😀 Use a 4000 PSI mix for both concrete steps and patios to ensure strength and durability.
• 😀 Maintain a low water-cement ratio to prevent cracking and allow for better workability.
• 😀 Vibrating the concrete helps eliminate air pockets and ensures a smoother finish.
• 😀 Pour concrete for stairs with a dry consistency to avoid sagging and ensure structural integrity.
• 😀 Use a mag tool to smooth and level the concrete edges and risers for precision.
• 😀 Rebar mats are essential for reinforcement, helping to avoid cracks and ensuring a solid structure.
• 😀 Always check the slope of the steps (around 1/8 inch) to ensure proper drainage and avoid water pooling.
• 😀 For patios, mag the surface first to bring up finer cream, filling any imperfections before brooming.
• 😀 Cutting grooves in potential crack zones helps control where the concrete will crack, ensuring a clean result.
• 😀 Use a Dewalt pencil vibrator to smooth out the edges of the form, avoiding imperfections when stripping.
• 😀 Never steel-trowel outdoor concrete in cold climates; instead, use magging and brooming to prevent moisture trapping and cracking.

Q & A

What types of concrete work does Mike specialize in?

Mike specializes in concrete floors, patios, slabs, stamped concrete, staining concrete, concrete repair, and epoxy floors.

Why is it important to use a dry mix for pouring concrete steps?

A dry mix is used for pouring concrete steps to avoid sagging. This helps ensure the concrete holds its shape and prevents uneven surfaces.

What equipment is used to remove air pockets from the concrete?

A vibrator is used to remove air pockets from the concrete, ensuring a smooth and dense finish.

What is the purpose of using water reducer in the concrete mix?

Water reducer helps maintain a low water-cement ratio, which prevents cracking and allows for a looser mix without compromising the concrete's strength.

How does using a rebar mat benefit the concrete patio?

The rebar mat provides reinforcement, improving the overall strength and durability of the concrete patio.

Why is it important to check the slope of the concrete steps?

It is important to check the slope of the concrete steps to ensure they slope slightly downwards, preventing water from pooling or creating puddles on the steps.

What is the function of the pocket protector used in the video?

The pocket protector holds the margin trial, making it more accessible and comfortable to use while working with concrete.

What finishing technique is used for the top surface of the concrete patio and steps?

The top surfaces of the concrete patio and steps are broom-finished, which creates a textured surface that enhances traction and durability.

Why is it better to use a mag float before a straight edge when finishing concrete?

Using a mag float before a straight edge helps bring up the cream (fine particles), fills in any imperfections, and ensures a smoother surface when finishing.

What is the purpose of cutting grooves into the concrete, especially in corners?

Cutting grooves in corners helps control where the concrete may crack. When cracks occur, they are more likely to form along the grooves, making them less noticeable.