DIY Laying a Concrete Slab

In this video Andrew Donkin shows you how to lay a concrete slab. What you will need:
Wood slats
Spray paint
Crushed stone
Ready mix cement
Rebar and binding wires
Hammer
Pegs
Spirit level
Wooden float
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[@LucidDreamer54321]

You need to do a follow-up video and show the house that you built on this slab.

[@walter5401]

Its for a jojo tank

[@LucidDreamer54321]

@Walter Who is Jojo?

[@karito6910]

@@LucidDreamer54321 anime character

[@wordskl]

​@@LucidDreamer54321water tank

[@samme4life]

About to do a concrete slab for the first time in my life. This is quite informative video. Gave me confidence that I can do it myself. Thank you

[@garyduncan7129]

What a nice job on this video. I'm a former technical writer and appreciate well-structured and concise instructions. Your summary of what you were going to do, why, and the tools needed was extremely helpful and made the instruction part of the video that much more quick and easy to follow. Thank you!

[@BuildersFan]

Hi Gary, we're glad you enjoyed the video :) NM

[@leelweerakoon1956]

0p0

[@streetgainer]

Your method for creating and squaring the frame, marking the perimeter and leveling it while fastening to the stakes is hands down the best and easiest method of ALL the videos on you tube. Thank you!

[@Taooflu]

Never thought I’d find a slab of concrete so beautiful.

[@thegadgetzone]

Same lol

[@xro5841]

Thanks. Start to finish what I want or need to know in 5 minutes. Saw many videos all talk & never pour. Your Video explains & demonstrates. Kind of like doing it myself. I can re-watch a few time and develop Muscle Memory just from the watching. You Sir are a Teacher. I'm not an Idiot but Concrete is not my expertise. I'm a Computer Guy with ability to follow a lead. Good Leading.

[@BuildersFan]

Hi, glad you enjoyed the video :) NM

[@michaelmyerrs9795]

@is-haq wong AHAHAHAHA OMFG you're right. Is-haq wong you sumbiatch I laughed N farted.

[@tyricewilson9084]

Best of the best videos. Straight to the point without a lot of garbage, thanks.

[@rgauthie99]

Great video. Concise and easy to follow. I work in IT as a Technical Architect and often an Analyst who has to produce technical documentation or administrative videos - this video was one of the best I've seen as DIYer!

[@ChrisStahl]

Thank you for this video! This was exactly what I needed for a 4X2 slab I needed to pour. Never having done concrete before, I was nervous but I remembered the steps from your video and it came out great!

[@jonothandoeser]

That's a LOT or rebar for a one square meter slab! Is he going to be driving tanks over it???

[@Nathan-wn5mc]

@@jonothandoeser lmao!

[@giovanirafael]

@@jonothandoeser Stfu stop trying to downgrade other people's effort and work u ass**le!

[@jonothandoeser]

@@giovanirafael It's too much rebar, ASSHOLE! Are you really THIS stupid???

[@adriaanvandermerwe536]

@@jonothandoeser In South Africa's it's for water tanks. This will probably carry the weight of a 2000l tank which is 2 tons.

[@R34GTRR35]

I have poured over 3000 slabs around light pole bases , this method is spot on well done 👍 just make it a bit thicker to 125mm to 150 and it will last forever

[@2432risingsun]

Very useful video. No fluff, you got right into the "How To Do It". Thank you

[@BloominOnion1]

No background music to drown out the message. 10/10

[@lakie2042]

When nailing the box work, leave some nail protruding. That way you can just use the claw of the hammer to get it out than prying between the pieces of timber.

[@chriswhite2151]

This is why they make duplex nails They have 2 heads, one above the other

[@Jivermo]

That’s why this guy used screws. Smart.

[@Jivermo]

Right to the point! No extraneous BS, unlike so many how-to videos. Excellent!

[@nathanmciver6737]

I have the video one silent, I think your comment could be more satisfying! I think I will take your word for the video being just as awesome!

[@bruddaozzo]

"No extraneous BS" - Using rebar is pointless in a slab this size.

[@palomarodriguez3308]

I've watched a dozen videos on this subject and they all do a terrible job of actually teaching... Until I saw this one. Literally everything one needs to know in 5 min. THANK YOU!!

[@budmonk2819]

Very nice. Bonus points on wearing the same clothes to provide continuity. 👍

[@markthomas3730]

always cover concrete work with plastic to keep in the humidity and stop cracking..you can lightly mist with water and cover again every other day for the first week, and then 1 final time during week 2 cure time.

[@ashleynkoe2687]

very informative, pretoria north soil is very loose first pour of liquid concrete is desireble

[@alenz01]

Clear, cool and polite, Thanks dude!

[@ProfessorRaiParadox]

you do greatly sir, this deserves to be put on the same shelf as the Indian guys who explain electronics!

[@sealily6015]

best video i have seen on laying a concrete slab.

[@Ojibwa_Islandboi]

I saw people just laying the rebar mat on the dirt for a whole patio. That's going to cause it to burn through and probably Rust.

[@carlbodies]

Great video, thanks so much for the simple explanation! I'm getting ready to pour a small slab for a modern steel mailbox and was totally overthinking what I needed to do until I saw your video. Cheers!

[@cristianchavez1413]

Few tips water the gravel that u put under the cement and put rocks under the rebar to hold it up

[@kevinjamesparr552]

If nails are hammered so far in it is hard to take that frame off . By being able to take nails out the frame can be no trouble to concrete edges

[@juliuspereira7067]

Awesome video. Very well explained. The tips on how to leveling the frame is gold. Thank you much

[@grovkitty]

This is great for anyone wanting a concrete slab in the middle of nowhere. Nice random concrete square. So smooth :) Thanks

[@sablesanctum]

Anyone who is not able to extrapolate data and modify it to suit their own needs can safely disregard this video.

[@wendelellis1235]

How many bags of concrete did you use for the 3×3 slab?

[@craiginbatonrouge8161]

Wow... I had no idea...A slab made simple, let me go get started... thanks yall...

[@Beevreeter]

Thanks for an informative video, not exactly sure why you need drainage under a concrete slab (which is waterproof) - seems to me it would just encourage water to flow under the slab? Also a useful tip, brush the inside of the wooden form with motor oil before pouring the slab to allow for easy removal and no tear-out at the edges.

[@BuildersFan]

Hi Ken, thank you for the feedback and the tip :) NM

[@clacicle]

Different areas and types of soil require different foundations. In this case he’s just showing us how to do a simply slab. However, in many areas it’s important to have gravel under a concrete slab because otherwise any water that pools there will eventually erode the soil which can then causes the slab to shift, sink, and or crack.

[@creasybob]

clacicle No, that’s not the case. All concrete should be poured on top of a type1 mixed sharp rock & then machine whacked-compacted. To prevent any movement. Overall your concrete and type 1 should be at the very least 600mm below the surface before you begin

[@creasybob]

clacicle your obviously an idiot

[@clacicle]

creasybob It believe it’s “you’re” and not “your”.

[@german69692007]

@ 3:40 The Boss Shows up I see!!! Great Video.

[@hugosong2304]

Thank you for an informative video. I thought you might have used an edger tool to round off the sharp edges on the top surface and reduce chipping. On the finished slab, I saw some parallel lines on the top surface, but not sure if those were marks from the float or anti-slip grooves you added with a broom, as that was not mentioned.

[@ritmolatino1627]

didnt do any of the things you mentiones and he should have

[@scottwatson4615]

You should add that there should be 50 mm cover around any steel reinforcing to avoid future rusting that could crack the concrete apart.

[@awmh1990]

Amazing explanation! One of the best videos on KZbin to explain how to pour concrete

[@BuildersFan]

Thank you for the feedback :) NM

[@princessdoddie]

Short, clear, concise and well articulated...my kind of DIY video.

[@BuildersFan]

Thank you for the awesome feedback :) NM

[@mosessam9929]

Thank you for posting the video, it was really neatly edited with concise instructions. Excellent job 👏

[@jillwild23]

excellent! I was quoted at $1500 for a small 16' x 4 ' sidewalk---I think we can DIY it so much cheaper. Going to give it a go!

[@averageguy7641]

1500 not bad I bet you wish you paid the professional

[@ryanscott6600]

@@averageguy7641 agreed. Not much at all.

[@averageguy7641]

Masonry is not a DIY trade

[@jillwild23]

@@averageguy7641 well since I literally can’t get anyone to bid on this tiny project, it just might have to be ☹️

[@averageguy7641]

@@jillwild23 lol good luck Location?

[@Jcr8519]

Thanks for such an easy video and not making it 1hr long... short sample easy video is good just like this one you made

[@kevinfades]

It’s just a little slob so it turns out bad or cracks well it’s all good not like I’m doing a driveway and wasting cash thanks got me inspired to do it in my own

[@benjamindantzie8053]

Great tutorial. I am about to lay a concrete slab for my car port and found your video very helpful. 👏👏👏

[@deld.f.paraelmundo1685]

Amazing I’ll start my own concrete slabs soon !

[@pablom3162]

If this is your only experience then don't bother

[@IndependentVFX]

This is great! Best DIY concrete tutorial Ive seen on KZbin

[@js4187]

really ? this is the best DIY concrete tutorial you have ever seen on you tube ?

[@kbanghart]

@@js4187 me too I think

[@franky2473]

Lol it's ok but good video

[@walkie1985]

Extremely concise and useful video. Beautifully created too. Great work, thank you

[@69ChevyGarage]

This is perfect for an outdoor dog kennel. If only a building foundation were this simple.

[@jorgearellano9346]

This is by far the best video explaining everything I need to know very thoroughly!!!!

[@sedamatevosian8947]

not true some critical steps were skipped.1 hydration.2. too wet concrete

[@talaleiataua1730]

Thank you sir! That was a great video demonstrating how it's done. Very simple and to the point and no blah..blah..blah like others. I can definitely save some money if only my wife would let me try. Thanks again!!.

[@michaelquintana7553]

the rectangular shape i need is 5 x 4.5 foot 2inches thick

[@markhedger6378]

I did this with box frames of various sizes for a patio

[@mjmeternal2696]

I wish we had Builders SA in Ladysmith, KZN. Your products are also good. Coming back to your video, well explained thank you

[@Cubanita1sensual]

Very well explained in simple terms. Thank you! Going to try it myself to save $.

[@absolutelynothingtoseehere]

Great idea to build the frame before laying it down.

[@scottywayne3601]

larger slabs good to learn about the 3, 4 and 5 rule to help get them square

[@omidkhajeh2931]

Amazing teaching mate all I need for my new job! Thank you so much 🙏🏼

[@KenyanMangroveWaigi]

Very helpful, I'm thinking I will use a type of sand to mark the outside of the square as an eco-friendly alternative to spray paint

[@claytondouglas484]

Short and to the point, yet all the details needed. Thanks.

[@heroknaderi]

I appreciate your video I’m pouring a 20x24 ft slab for a shop and will be pouring it in sections. I enjoyed watching your video great job 😎😎

[@LC-ue6mp]

best video on all of internet

[@BuildersFan]

Thank you for your awesome feedback. Regards. Andrew.

[@erwinerwin1245]

Super good video, best I seen on how to make a concrete slab

[@BuildersFan]

Thanks Erwin, I hope you enjoy some more on our Channel. Regards. Andrew.

[@jimhennes454]

What size slab ,thickness to support air conditioner? Well done video. Thank you.

[@bestmomentsoflifejay5401]

A very good video giving much information on making it like a pro. Really enjoyed watching it with great interest.

[@cjmountian367]

From across the pond! Very good.

[@BuildersFan]

Thank you. Regards. Andrew

[@logect_4477]

this video is very helpful i want to build a small slab thank you.

[@jacksherwood495]

Simple easy to understand with some good pointers

[@BuildersFan]

Thank you for the great feedback, Jack. :) NM

[@SS_STUDIO300_]

best video on this diy hands down

[@BuildersFan]

Hi Ali, thank you for the positive feedback :) NM

[@mariomorales8529]

Best video ive came across so far

[@BuildersFan]

Hi Mario, thank you for the positive feedback 😀 NM

[@sherrcon]

thank you for the vid..

[@karens7620]

Hi great well explained video thanku. Can you leave the wood if you in an area to replace flowers? Have great day. My area not big it's ling & narrow prob est 10x4 ft maybe. Lol

[@daiiahi3403]

You notice the gaps at the base of the slab?....because you didn't use a trowel to compact the edges of the frame. The big gaps make the pour look sloppy.

[@barkergardens]

Very helpful video, keep them coming.

[@Quic34]

Now I want to see that episode! Somebody link it!

[@PastorjackWilson]

I am doing this as we do not have water to our house although we will not be drinking it we will use it for everything else. My question is for the pump. I want to be able to activate it by turning on a shower, sing, etc. Can you advise me?

[@rudraramnath2083]

Brilliant and simple

[@willnell5932]

This video just gave me motivation.Thanks

[@Ppp-kk6hw]

Big up from Scotland 👍

[@rosskilpatrick934]

Good video. How many bags of concrete mix was needed for that job? Thanks.

[@grumplepig]

Very well done, direct and uncomplicated

[@mikeray353]

Nice explanation. I'm thankful for people like you!

[@cavitycreep]

you can by them from lowes

[@gearhead366]

Thanks for this video. I was wanting to make a concrete pad for a generator, and this is perfect.

[@Bo12346hhgfgdg]

Great video! would this eventually hold the weight of a car? We are going to make slabs about that size as a driveway.

[@nicegurl408]

Now, how is a pretty pattern made? My mom has like a shinny cement/concrete thing,with color, in her front yard. Anyone know what that’s called?

[@LubomirFotev]

thanks mate, simple and easy to understand. Briliant.

[@edwardrogers-wright1604]

Thank you so much for the video. I learnt a lot from it.. Anyhow, what was the ratio and quantity of the materials to make the concrete for this box? Thanks again ...

[@claudiocipriani2444]

Short, clear and simple. Great video!

[@johannes6760]

What would be the use of a concrete slab in the middle of your garden or yard?

[@oOohdaddy]

2 weeks to cure ????? So you have to do that in advance if replacing ac unit i thought it was maybe 2 days at most

[@earcandies44]

Good job. Is there a video on how to make a concrete mix?

[@ingodwetrust3271]

I’ve now experienced true level and will never be the same.

[@skeleman1963]

Great video but I would have done one more step and used s concrete edger to finish off the top edges.

[@rmhutchins7]

I enjoyed your video. It was very helpful. Thank you!

[@gemdacras]

Very good video. Thank you.

[@Exsig12]

Well done, clear concise and to the point. Awesome video, thank you!!

[@teddyboy252]

Good job

[@gabrielgonzales8163]

buenos videos construccion pisos concreto

[@DanburyConnecticut]

great now I'm looking for a reason to install a concrete slab somewhere around my house.

[@rabindranauth1235]

Great demonstration , i have a question tho what is the difference between using grovel instead of decompressed granite soil . I am from Aruba when we do pouring of concrete floors we use decompressed granite soil . Just wanted to know what the difference was between the 2 .

[@garythomson9908]

Yeah we try to use pea gravel instead of that bigger rock. Still allows for drainage but let’s the concrete have more mobility when moving and less likely to crack.

[@johnepperson8867]

EXCELLENT !!!!!!!!! Thank You very much !!!

[@JustOchi]

What process would I use if I wanted to pour my slab over old cracked existing concrete? The previous people didn't used rebar or crushed concrete. The poured over level dirt. This is for a shed.

[@obijuankenobi6565]

The correct way would be to remove the old concrete. Dont be lazy.

[@cookingwithochi7601]

@@obijuankenobi6565 ok, thanks that's what I needed to know.

[@doms6741]

When you measure diagonal it still might not be square, even with the same number! If the top is smaller than the bottom. It will have the same measurement diagonal.

[@sleddy01]

Not a square. The corners being square, 90 degrees.

[@kbanghart]

I don't understand. If the sides Are equal, and the diagonals are equal, how can it not be square??

[@N1rOx]

Opposites sides need to be same length, think of a rectangle. What you describe is a trapezoid, which by definition, cannot have four square corners. The diagonal check is to ensure all four corners are square.

[@condor5635]

Obviously the opposite sides of this square or rectangle are equal lengths. Then the diagonal have to be equal for it to be ‘square’.

[@shellmora]

Awesome tutorial. Easy to understand.

[@tonysnow6909]

Thank you for your time and the video !

[@svitale7562]

Simply perfect! Thank you

[@JohnvanGurp]

Really great DIY instructional. I love the clear narration and excellent video work. This is going to help me lay a small slab in my yard, although I'm going to do some exposed aggregate as a finish. I'm planning to use bags of ready-mix and will buy a plastic mixing tray for the purpose. Thanks again: I have subscribed and am going to view your other videos.

[@andrewhdonkin]

John van Gurp . Thanks for the great feedback. I hope you enjoy the other clips.

[@BuildersFan]

Hi John, thank you for the positive feedback. :) NM