How to Prep, Form & Pour a Concrete Slab for beginners--Start to Finish

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Shortcuts: @0:45 Prep work begins @6:55 Form work begins @13:18 Rebar Installation @16:34 Pouring the concrete begins I ended up using this concrete slab for a Gazebo. See video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXqcaoesmd2Fnsk

[@la5150hi-lophoto]

That wife is a keeper helping you tackle that job!

[@mistersniffer6838]

Meh, I just want to barrow h'r!!

[@trxtech3010]

@@mistersniffer6838 Same. She's gt some sexy curves!

[@OneSmellyTaco]

Hands down one of the best videos I've seen on pouring a slab. Very detailed, everything to the point. No forced jokes, or any other useless things added. Thank you. Just subscribed.

[@showmehow4076]

fully agreed; get to the point; he did!

[@jjisella]

Nice work, you convinced me to hire someone to pour my slab LOL :)

[@Psy6o]

Let a pro do it unless your a pro

[@mattandkatchristie2552]

Hahahahaah RIGHT!!!

[@ayo30s]

Haha!!! 👊🏾🇳🇬🇺🇸

[@mattandkatchristie2552]

I just did mine it was awful but saved $4000

[@ayo30s]

@@mattandkatchristie2552 $4000??? Omg!!! I guess I have to do mine myself… Did you mix it yourself or have it delivered? 👊🏾🇳🇬🇺🇸

[@bdsjr32]

I don't know that I have ever seen anything more detailed then this in my many years of watching DIY or training videos. Simply outstanding!

[@jeffhahn01]

The voice over format is much more effective than talking while you are doing.very nice video.

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thank you

[@fernandovelasquez7883]

Excellent job and very nicely detailed information on pouring this slab! Your wife and son make a great very helpful team and I am very impressed with how well your wife performed here and of course your son's help! Keep this great videos coming and thank you for sharing this wonderful information in this video! Have a blessed day and God bless you all always!

[@prodigyxl]

This guy a true professional. I’ve seen contractors not being as good as this man! You are an expert! Thanks for sharing your great knowledge!

[@felixabreu5283]

Excellent work man. Didn’t realized I had watched a 30 minute video good job

[@TK-rt6il]

Wow! Your wife is a great help. She seems to know what she is doing.

[@JackieRice]

I'm super impressed with your wife! My kinda girl! Jump in there and help get it done. Excellent job everyone!

[@salemdrones4907]

This is the best concrete pouring instructional video I've ever seen. It was very clear, methodical and easy to follow. Thanks for taking the time to make this!

[@MotoAnthony]

I wish all DIY / instructional videos were this easy-to-understand and straightforward.

[@barbarasmith6414]

Your wife and son did a fantastic job helping you. What a beautiful patio

[@olivercaceres2974]

What a perfect supportive wife !!! AWESOME AND CONGRATS!!!

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thank you

[@jcarnouil]

Hello from France ! It's the best tutorial I saw about building a concrete slab DIY. Congratulations and thanks for your time, filming and commenting. Best regards.

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thank you very much!

[@64thinktank]

very well detailed....no skips as to teach each viewer that which he/she may not know.....I appreciate the family cooperation to assist in the demonstration of this video. Stay sharp!!

[@billywest7065]

This is by far the most useful and informative, thorough video concerning a beginning to end pour. Thank you VERY much!

[@charlesbryant3515]

Awesome! Best video on youtube!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you guys!

[@djc3949]

Hey thanks great video great tutorial, im gonna try this myself with a 20x20 slab, any pointers you can help with ? Should I do 2 slabs 10x10 or 1 whole slab 20x20 ? You didn't show how you did the lines that split slab , thanks so much, we'll appreciate a reply 👍

[@FreddyStarman]

Excellent tutorial. you have a natural talent to teach. Thanks.

[@Craig-ib7gk]

Nice job. You can further help the cure by liberally dousing with water (large puddles acceptable), then spreading *thick* plastic sheeting over the surface (*not* black) . The sheeting ramps the humidity underneath, retaining the moisture far longer so it can take part in the cure. The overall cure time will be *considerably* shorter, and as a bonus, it also allows you to only re-wet once or twice per day rather than 5+. It is especially helpful in warmer weather. Of course, if you have the environment to do it, nothing beats a pond-cure if you can build the berm and flood it with 6" or so of water. That's the holy grail for a good, pure cure on a short clock.

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thanks for the info

[@denispalacios5485]

Wife helping!!! Applause to both.!!! Regards from Monroe, NY

[@sheldonortiz4816]

This is probably one of the best explanations tutorials from start to finish I’ve seen. ESP the grading part. And explanation of how to use the tools

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thank you

[@jaredsargent7683]

On for real one of best videos I have seen that actually explains steps! Thanks

[@monkeyfinger7949]

Great video and best wife ever. How many women know how to work concrete and would be willing to get outside and actually do the work?

[@Trp510]

More women than you think

[@rachellydy3367]

I made concrete countertops when I was a single woman (with glass pieces mixed in, it was beautiful!). I also poured a concrete porch (rented a mixer for that job!). I think most women think it's "man's work" and lack the confidence. I was lucky I had an older brother growing up and felt comfortable trying things.

[@mesenteria]

You have many well-deserved accolades in the comments so far. I will add my own. Very commendable work on both the job and the video.

[@Jamestfarrell]

Great team there! And rounding the edges absolutely protects those corners from potential damage from what would have been vulnerable edges.

[@steviedickson4736]

Of all the videos on youtube, this video has been the most helpful for me. THANKS!

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thanks for watching

[@jvogler_art4708]

My adhd lead me here. I was sitting in my living room wondering how they get the floor so level and flat in a home. Then I thought it must be a concrete slab to create a level foundation. Then I wanted to see the entire process of how a concrete slab is poured level and flat… amazing the art form/ rabbit hole of all the artisan/construction trades and how many little details lead to a good finished product.

[@blogobre]

They use string lines and levels [these days lasers] on wooden floor joists also to get it level.

[@1blkqueen845]

This is by far the Best detailed concrete video that I have come across. Thank You

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thank you

[@cutchopweld5717]

My dad used to make 1 "master" side then measure corner to corner cross ways then measure corner to corner on opposite corners. I you adjust and make these distances equal then your form is square(adjusting bow after). Always worked for us.

[@nathanmitchell2827]

This was helpful, thank you. I’ve been in a situation before where not enough care was taken to prep and level the ground…… it was a nightmare. Thanks for making a clear emphasis on that, and giving helpful instructions.

[@bobmariano3731]

Excellent & very detailed video for us DIY’ers . Very well done & informative, will be using this to pour my own slab for a 14x20 ft shed build. Shout out to your wife for much needed help also . Congrats to both of you on a job well done ! ! 👍 ⚾️

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Glad it was helpful!

[@VeryVocalViking]

THANK YOU! This is by far the most informative video I've ever seen on this topic. Thank you for thoroughly explaining every step and consideration. Fabulous level of detail, but also not too much. Still interesting to watch.

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

You're welcome & Thank you

[@thegreatpatsy]

Awesome work, this reminds me of me and my wife right there.

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

That's awesome!

[@Devi1D0g04]

That you for this. I have a serious slop in my backyard and I want to increase my patio from 9x12 to 15x20 and I couldn't find a good video on how to level land for nothing.

[@rgarcia5353]

Excellent job! Very thorough narration, easy to follow and listen to. The only thing missing was the dog walking over the fresh concrete slab... 🙂

[@trex283]

I really appreciate the details you give. Did you mention the kind of concrete you used?

[@stevemcilroy.62]

I was expecting them to park a car on there, not few chairs. Way over engineered for some chairs. Saying that, best concrete slab video on youtube. Well explained, and very neat job. Kudos to you and your wife.

[@prodbytarantino]

Better to be over prepared then under prepared lmaoo😭

[@SiothaVest]

Thanks for showing us the basics I felt intimidated by when we left the city to have a homestead.

[@madlifts1]

good job man, your wife did an awesome job and didn't quit

[@zaiks0105]

Wow .... way more involved than what I imagined

[@MohsinExperiments]

27:56 most important 2 points. Thank you so much!

[@yadda333]

Jesus Christ, somebody finally made a simple video that gave real instructions on forming (along with video of the materials). It sounds dumb, but all I wanted to see was what type and size wood used, the pin/stakes to hold the forms, the size of screws, etc. Nobody puts that stuff in their videos, but you did. I didn't even realize there was a special kind of rebar pin (or that's even what it's called) that had holes so you could secure the form to it until this video. Kudos, man. You're a stud.

[@chrisalister2297]

Really great video. Very informative. Maybe two things missed I've seen mentioned in other videos...make sure if using a wood scree that it is level across...not crowned. Compare your string to the edge of your wood forms to make sure they don't bow in or out so that they are also straight. Thanks for sharing!

[@MikeyB63]

Yes this is a great video I've had help my uncle from time to time in the past and I wanted to touch basic I've look and look for videos not what I've found but this video the way you explain and show me without the fast forwarding and the time perfect I been looking for a video I don't mind watching and time not wasted other videos I guess they thought people would say or think it's to long this is what I've been looking for and I enjoyed the way you walk through showed us and explain thank you Perfect literally thank you 10 stars

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thankyou, much appreciated.

[@robertopistone1179]

Excellent video sir. I learned quite a bit for pouring a slab for my hot tub.

[@tamsonebarley3520]

This was the most thorough video I've seen so far, as a beginner I very much appreciate the level of detail used here. Just wondering what type of wood was used for the forms and what type of concrete (I hear there are 26 types).

[@tarek200jo]

BEST WORK AND EXPLAIN VIDEO I HAVE EVER SEEN. REALLY THANKS

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thank you

[@Jason-pq5vg]

Wow, I am super impressed with how well you video is!!! Nice job!!

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thank you

[@Agustin-jo8mv]

Thank you. I just learned something. I learned that you can stake your first 2x4 then screw the rest together then when the form is one piece, but not secure you can adjust it to square. I had wondered how I would to this.

[@17573240]

Wow is that a lot of work. Nicely done!

[@johngate4715]

The local concrete concrete contractor here is wanting to charge a crazy price. I think we can do it our self. The only issue id run into is prepping the gravel and stuff because the ground is super uneven.

[@LunaDaSavage]

Bada** video and great to see your wife helping you that's really awesome!! You got a new sub 😊

[@Larrydudeman]

Wow great detailed video!! Thanks!!

[@stevenlee4867]

Dig that Rebar. Feels Good. Great Helper, Hard work. Beautiful !!

[@betterworldok3802]

Excellent thorough information. Thank you for the video. Excellent work.

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thank you

[@bzakie2]

Great job mate.

[@Alanrayc1957]

Excellent how to video!

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@romanticscents]

Thank you for being so thorough. The only thing I didn't see u do, is the cure on top of slab. I'm doing sum research and wasn't sure if this step is this step really necessary. By the way would love a video on how much everything costs. I'm just starting out myself and want to do this on my own. 😀

[@wingrider1004]

Excellent tutorial

[@4Rhouse]

A friend poured a similar size slab and didn't notice that the screed board was warping from moisture during the screed process until he discovered a low area in the concrete after it had set up! In other words, make sure it stays straight as you work! Great video.

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thanks

[@xntricity6446]

Was the screed board very thin?

[@stanhargrove4753]

Never heard of a screed warping while it’s in use and I’m a commercial finisher we use wood 2x4 screeds all the time what did he use Masonite or something lol?

[@sneakysasquatchtipsfori6070]

thanks i needed this to help my dad

[@sku32956]

Looks good this guy has done this work before or been around it

[@craigkimble8036]

Excellent instructions w/o the waste of time. TY

[@tracyflores5369]

Totally impressed I may even try this at my place here in Central taxes, thank you for the video. 🎉😎🇨🇱

[@alex-l7747]

Amazing video !!! Thank you !

[@sedassedas4993]

Great details, nice work.

[@debhume4474]

Amazing video!

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thanks!

[@ellobo761]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video. It sure does help out a lot.💪

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Glad it was helpful!

[@farquadshmoogle9120]

its kinda interesting that you picked the area of your lawn that is good to remove to put it up.

[@LloydTaylor]

Subscribed, great video!

[@youcanfixit3721]

Cool beans!!! Very detailed walk through from start to finish. Haven't found a better tutorial. Liked and subscribed....

[@miraclelawnservice2]

You guys did an awesome Job!! Very detailed explanation and straightforward. I will be pouring my own slab soon thanks guys!!

[@s.nelson256]

Hi, I learned a lot from this video, thank you! I wanted to ask your perspective about a couple things: you did not use a rock/gravel base, or a vapor barrier. Why did you decide against these things?

[@SteveHippensteel]

I thought you talk about brooming. Maybe I misunderstood. If you did this, you didn't show it. It is the best video I've seen so far.

[@nickcortese990]

Solid job guys. Any Reason you guys didnt use a concrete groover while still moist?

[@C.GW.H]

annnnd I'll be back for more videos. Thank you.

[@kyleulmer726]

Nicely done ✅

[@JustinBilyj]

Great stuff! Would love to see this done for a cabin.

[@mpe777]

Superb job with the video detailing and slab creation. Bravo!!

[@duncanblanchard334]

Nice explanation, why didn’t you join the slab with the existing slab.

[@georgemaze7926]

Good job, thanks for making this video.

[@gustavocervantes5435]

Great video!! 👍👍 be proud of your wife !!

[@solarflare4259]

Great detailed video! It helps me a lot with prepping and pouring a concrete slab that will serve as a base for my 30'x19' carport , also on a slopped ground. Thank you for posting! Liked and subscribed.

[@juanmurguia1322]

Not bad definitely a good beginner video, on a slab that small I’d cut the joints while finishing to save you the trouble of cutting afterwards but the outcome wasn’t bad good job.

[@thundercats475]

Very nice for beginners

[@DanaManni]

idk where this was poured at, but if you're in the north. make sure to use 21AA crushed concrete or better for "base material". In the winter, that slab would heave like crazy. again, idk if this was poured some place with mild winters. Great video tho.

[@gosslandbuilding-services9519]

I think you can twist the handle of the bull float and it angle’s the float front and back, no need to left it up when pulled back!

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

An option on the nicer floats, but this one is in a fixed position

[@jordansinclair3062]

This is a great video, well done!!

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thank you

[@scottskoi8428]

@@D.I.Y._All-in-One Extremely helpful video. I give your WIFE props for the extremely hard work she did! That is one helluva woman. Great job!!!

[@johnsanchez2558]

Really great video thank you!

[@Jude13able]

I wish you had a training course I'd take it.

[@MarcusT86]

Amazing vid. Thanks for the tips!

[@10p6]

Nice. But note that on most floats you can change the holding angle, and change the float angle by twisting it left or right for forward and backwards.

[@morganmoallemian3667]

I know nothing about this sort of thing, which is why I'm checking out this video. Am I correct in assuming that your methodology is maximum thoroughness with absolutely zero shortcuts? Or is everyone who tackles this work this thorough? Frankly, I'm totally intimated by your meticulous thoroughness and feel like I shouldn't attempt this... ever! LOL Just curious. Very fine job and you're a top dude for sharing such a well done video!

[@D.I.Y._All-in-One]

Thanks. I try be a thorough as possible for instruction purposes. And I try to avoid short cuts for the most part , so I only have to do the job once.

[@Notooshabyy]

When you only have to pour 3 yards you can take your time and get it perfect. It’s different when you have 20 yards.

[@TheAajsanchez]

@@Notooshabyy The best concrete guy I use regularly in my developments pours only 1 truck tops at a time. He is meticulous with his prep work, 70+ years old. Takes him forever to complete the job but it comes out better than most. Worth it when you have time in the schedule to allow for it.

[@luckysakonta3724]

Lovely stuff 👌🏽 👏🏽, I really enjoyed this video. Thank you

[@dadsalwaysdoingsomething6087]

Great video! Thank you for sharing!

[@masterconstruction1989]

very hard work and good luck

[@sz4179]

Good job!! *learned a lot! But,Too hard for me, I'd want that little tractor to provide the muscle for leveling and compacting....