Constructing a concrete sidewalk could appear to be a herculean one. But it is not impossible to do it yourself if you follow the right procedure and use the right equipment. Here, I will explain how you can do it. You will discover how to lay a long-lasting and non-slippery sidewalk.
Step 1: Assembling All the Materials
To start, there are several things that you will require and these include; To complete this task you will require concrete mix, shovel, wheelbarrow, wooden stakes, a measuring tape, string, level, trowel, float and a broom. You should also have protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses. This way, everything will be in place, and the process will run much more smoothly.
Step 2: Plan and Measure the Area
Firstly, decide where you wish to have your sidewalk. Take the measuring tape and measure the length and the width of the sidewalk. Stake out the area with wooden stakes. Put the stakes at each corner and along the sides of the area that you want to enclose. Then, using the string, join the stakes together to create a guideline for your sidewalk to be made. Check that the surface is flat using a level. If it is not, then one has to work a bit to level it out, so to speak.
Step 3: Excavate the Area
Now, it is time to prepare the ground on which the sidewalk is to be constructed, that is, to remove the soil from the site. Dig the soil using a shovel and take the first layer of the soil. Till the soil to a depth of about 4-6 inches. This will provide adequate room for the gravel base and the concrete to be spread out. The bottom of the excavation should also be leveled and made as flat as possible.
Step 4: Create a Gravel Base
Once the area is excavated, you have to prepare the ground for the concrete to be poured. Place gravel at the bottom of the excavation. It should be spread over the area evenly with the help of a rake. The use of a gravel base is to ensure that there is proper drainage and to act as a base for the concrete. The layer of gravel should be of about 2 inches depth. Compress it strongly to make it have a small size.
Step 5: Build the Forms
After that, it is necessary to create molds to support the concrete in proper positions. To construct the sides of the sidewalk, the wooden boards should be used. Nail the boards to the stakes you put before. Ensure the forms are aligned properly and properly fixed. Check that the tops of the forms are level by using the level. The forms will define the shape of your sidewalk and prevent the concrete from flowing out.
Step 6: Mix the Concrete
Now it is the time to pour the concrete. The concrete mix bag will come with instructions on how to prepare the mixture, follow these instructions. Transfer the mix to a wheelbarrow. Pour water slowly and mix with a shovel only after the previous portion of water has been well incorporated. The concrete should be of a rich, workable consistency. However, do not make it too runny or too thick.
Step 7: Concrete Pour
When the concrete is ready, then you can begin to pour it into the forms. Start from one side of the sidewalk and progress to the other side of the sidewalk. To ensure that the concrete flows and sets properly, pour it smoothly into the corners and edges of the mold. Level the concrete with a shovel as you pour it out and make sure the surface is even.
Step 8: Smooth and Level the Concrete
After you have placed the concrete, you should then level and trowel it. The concrete should be spread evenly and this should be done using a trowel. It is better to work in small sections to achieve a smooth surface of the object. After getting a rough level, use a float to level the surface even more. The float aids in flattening out any small irregularities and getting rid of air bubbles.
Step 9: Create Control Joints
Expansion joints are necessary to avoid the formation of cracks. The kind of joints that should be made are shown below and they should be made by using a jointer tool. They should be about 4 feet apart from each other. The joints should be made to be slightly less than one-fourth of the depth of the concrete. This will enable the concrete to swell and shrink without cracking.
Step 10: Application of Texture on the Surface
But for a nonslip surface, you have to introduce some roughness to the concrete. To achieve a light texture on the surface, it is recommended to use a broom. Slide the broom across the concrete in a straight back-and-forth manner. This will create small grooves which will assist in making good traction. This should be done while the concrete is still wet.
Step 11: Let the Concrete Cure
One of the important stages is curing. It is suggested to cover the concrete with a plastic sheet to retain the moisture on the concrete surface. This assists the concrete to set and gain its strength as required and as intended. Keep the plastic on for at least 3-7 days. Do not cross the sidewalk at this time.
Step 12: Remove the Forms
After the concrete has hardened, the formwork should be stripped off. Tap the forms with a hammer and try to free them carefully. Gently raise the boards off the concrete. Do not apply much pressure so as not to cut the edges of the sidewalk.
Conclusion
Constructing a concrete sidewalk is a satisfying job. It is possible to make a strong and beautiful path if you take your time and move methodically. If you follow this guide, then you will have a new sidewalk to use. Regardless of whether you are constructing a house or a garden, a concrete sidewalk is an added advantage and a plus for convenience.