DRY POUR CONCRETE WALKWAY: 4 Inches Thick WITH Reinforcement. Anyone Can Do It!

WE ARE BACK AGAIN WITH A NEW DRY POUR! With a new finishing technique and new methods on how to dry pour concrete, we show y'all new ways to complete a slab.
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[@takeabreak1671]

Im a single man with no help trying to pour concrete slab from many months and tired of hearing very high quotes from different people as everyone said I couldn’t do it alone but after seeing your video i did it and im writing this comment as i just finished concrete slab & it’s awesome Thank you very much guys❤️❤️

[@CajunCountryLivin]

This is so very cool! This is the reason that we do this! So happy to help!

[@rodneyperry7940]

Good for you man.

[@paulinehouseholder7053]

I'm going to do this alone too, so glad for your comment. Gives me the confidence to do it by myself. Grateful for all the positivity.

[@Tastyjamsandwich]

Well done pal.

[@slowlyfaded8264]

Thank you for this comment I alone as well and was wondering if this could be done, great to hear that it’s possible

[@dchall8]

I like how you deliberately and specifically addressed every issue people had with your last dry pour. Reading through the comments I see no more suggestions - only praise. Excellent explanations this time.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you! We really tried to hit all the comments that we could!

[@modernplumbingtechniques5656]

indeed

[@babcockseven]

I absolutely agree. You guys are fantastic. You explain everything so well. I love how you work so great together. I love your great attitudes. I think we’re going to give this a try.

[@Sloanmatthews]

Omg I just was going to say that. My first video I saw of these guys she had a box of tissue for the select group of fans. 😂😂

[@Ken_James_SV]

5 days ago I laid a 10' x 10' slab for a shed using your method in your other video. But I made mine 2" thick all over except it's 4" at the edges where the Dynabolts had to go. I put the shed on it today and it works great. Thanks for the great video 👍

[@CajunCountryLivin]

That is awesome! So very happy to help!

[@robertlewis4990]

Thanks for posting this. I was wondering how dynabolts would do.

[@sandygomez3439]

How do you do it 2 inches thick? Do you just lay the 2×4s on their sides when doing your form?

[@muffinhater69]

@@sandygomez3439rip a 2X4 to 2”. Remember a 2x4 is in reality 1”1/2x3”1/2

[@braddl9442]

My dad used to make pads like this for sheds, He he even made a patio and walk way doing this method. Im actually surprised most people dont know about doing it like this. His rule was wait a month before putting anything on it.

[@chutasan8299]

I have a suggestion for you. To keep the new addition from moving away from the other concrete over time, you should drill some 1/2" rebar into existing concrete and tie to new reinforcement.

[@unknownindividual731]

When inserting that rebar into the old slab, it should be epoxied in place well before the pour. This process is quite helpful when adding a small slab against your house for a pump, water softener or some other smaller item.

[@markcarney9144]

Followed your directions and my dry pour slab, pavers, and sections of sidewalk (I had to replace some broken sections in my sidewalk) have all turned out perfect turned out perfect. At 71 and having had a heart attack recently I was not looking forward to trying to do wet mix pours as I tire out and need to rest pretty quickly. As it was i could barely pick up the 60 pound bags of quickcrete I had delivered. This method allowed me to take my time, take breaks when I needed to and still end up with an end result that looks and feels like a professional wet pour. I still have a few more projects I want to do, but I no longer fear the time and effort commitment needed.

[@Flippin_Crazy]

Looking around my yard, to see where I want to do this! I’m 69, and I’m pretty sure I can do this, too! Thank you sooo much! ❤️ Weeki Wachee, Florida

[@marvinvonrenchler4832]

I just found this after watching your first one and see that you added things from advice like cutting the bags to get it out easy, and how to figure amount etc. And again---you two just made my life SO much easier!! You mentioned uses for concrete and it hit me that Im in a wheelchair for life and have been looking for a way to get around my 1/2 acre but the mixing and pouring of wet concrete was daunting! Im going to use your technique to make a series of small pads---3 feet wide by 2 feet by 3 inches deep so that every two feet there is a joint. It will be a wheelchair path all around my lot. Im on heavy clay that moves around a lot. This will be so easy You just changed my lifestyle. I think you two need a DIY show on TV, truly. Its a pleasure to watch you

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you so much! This will be awesome to improve your mobility! Very excited for you!

[@douglasfortenberry2610]

As a paraplegic, I can appreciate this exchange. I owned 140 acre farm in west Texas for about 20 years and built mini offense and we never used water even though we set them all with concrete. We would just empty a bag or two in the hole, depending on how deep it was and let them see it for a week or so, we also used that method to pour numerous concrete slabs on the farm over the years from garages to ramps etc. and now that I’ve sold the farm and bought some property in Colorado. I’m going to pour a 60 x 40 foundation drop for just me and a buddy, I am in a chair he’s not so that will be a big help pouring a slab that size, but honestly with the experience I have it’s not that daunting at all

[@kristilbilyeu7682]

@@douglasfortenberry2610Good luck on your project!!!

[@anneashley5110]

Similar Marvin. And thanks for your tip. I have a patio to do on reasonable budget. It's all laid but I want to keep some bricks down and take some slabs up for new. After Covid prices have rocketed and I'm finding difficulty with getting workmen who want to charge many thousands of pounds. I'm not in wheelchair but had back op several yrs ago and don't like to be beat. I've thought of many ways to do myself. In 70s .but always drawn a blank. Now only outlay is suitcase carrier/wheeler to trundle cement through. Your idea Marvin of 3x2x2" is great for me to pattern up with bricks. And gaps between to fill with mortar or pea gravel fine. At last. My area is tiny compared with yours but only reservation is getting fine enough mist on water spray....in England where we get alot wet weather. Good health and so glad you will get around in that chair better. I was a Chiropractor for decades so watch for new surgeries or more modern methods to help with your movement. Best wishes and thanks to the couple who made these videos. P.S. I saw some of those cut out patterned breeze blocks laid out for a seat and along back with a foam seat and cushions. Just the ticket for anyone disabled. Blessings friend.

[@anneashley5110]

​@douglasfortenberry2610 well done sir and thanks again to two Brill presenters.

[@jethrobodine9617]

Just a suggested tip... I've used dry pour for years.. With a lot of experimenting. I've uses water based paint as, well to color the concrete. Results were great. Maybe on one of your pours, you can showcase the colored concrete.

[@kim99may]

Ooooh that could be gorgeous ❤❤❤❤❤

[@da8675]

If I were to mix white paint would it create an even lighter concrete?

[@theweatherisaokay4964]

Great idea!

[@Carlab2pml]

How exactly are you adding paint? Is it through the water source?

[@tanyaadamchuk9303]

Would this method work in cold weather climates?

[@jarodmoves]

As being your neighbor I am so glad to find someone on KZbin that talk normal we can understand! Great job.

[@jarmstrong2843]

I dry poured a 12" x 24' x 4" slab in my backyard to store my M1078 LMTV Stewart and Stevenson vehicle. I used 80# bags and ordered 161 of them. 3/8" rebar was used as the reinforcement on 18' grid pattern. Let cure for 10 days before driving on it. Total cost $841 concrete, $290 rebar, wood forms free. A little over $1131 total cost. Contractor price $3100. The vehicle I store on the slab weighs about 22,900 pounds. No cracks, no problems.

[@gregcautrell1259]

I just dry poured a 12x16 foot storage shed floor, in 4 sections, by myself. Turned out great. I found that if the screed tries to pull up rocks when you go across, you can tap it up and down, making sure the screed stays on the forms, and it will help push the rocks down and bring the cement powder up. I'm sure it's easier with two people, but I only had me. Make sure your tools stay dry! I used a finishing trowel to lightly smooth out the screed ripples before going over it with the roller. On my first couple misting passes, I used a pump sprayer like you would use for bug spray or weed killer to get a super fine mist, and spray indirectly. You have to make sure you don't get any big drips because it will leave spots where the cement gets washed off of the aggregate. I found that with the sprayer I could do a second misting after about 20 minutes. Once you get that initial crust and start spraying with the hose, it absorbs the water like a sponge. Having watched some other dry pour videos, I think some people didn't understand that all of the working of the concrete is done dry, once you start with water you don't touch it until it's cured! Took the forms off next day. My last section was done in the morning, and it got hit by a rain and hailstorm that evening and didn't get hurt at all. Like you said, the actual working time is minimal, and I did other things between watering. Great way to do concrete if you're working alone! I'm 63 years old and retired.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Such great tips Greg & we are happy to hear the hail didn’t bother it! That’s fantastic!! We hope you email us some pictures. We would love to see how it turned out!!

[@kevinwinkle8091]

How much did your 12x16 cost? Also, do you think it could have been done in one big slab? You said you did it in sections. Could you explain that please?

[@BlueOriginAire]

You answered all my questions. This technique has gone viral, l read their method in all the concrete videos comments. There will soon be a slab in every home, in every apartment, and the world will finally be rid of lawn mowers. 🫶🏻🤪🙌🏼🍻

[@andrewashford5617]

So you have to water it for an hour 8 times after u mist it twice for 2 hours?

[@heathermelohnthereareno5505]

How do you make it in sections? Curious cause my slab ended up being little too small on width and I didn’t know if I could add to it similar to how they fixed a slab and went over it. I did read bob villa suggest never to put a shed on extended slab that it’s best to have sides sitting off the edge by an inch so rain doesn’t get inside but still just curious about the section part??

[@truepatriot1974]

Poured a beautiful headstone for my recently passed dog today. Added some sea glass and sea shells to it and it turned out beautiful. Thank y’all so much for the great tutorial

[@CajunCountryLivin]

So happy it turned out great for you!

[@darkroast66]

I poured my 4x4 pad for my deck stairs, it was great! Hopefully that quickcrete sponsorship is coming soon. You guys are probably making the traditional concrete guys head explode with each video.😊

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you for letting us know how your project turned out! And yes….. I don’t think we are very popular in their circle right now😂

[@DDoyle5618]

​@@CajunCountryLivin 😂

[@shoshana7412]

You guys are amazing! I too have gotten very high quotes for concrete jobs so I’ve decided after seeing what you have taught us to try it myself. I am 70 years old woman but very active so I’ll find a little helper to start doing some small concrete projects myself. Thank you so much for making these videos. ❤

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you so much for watching and good luck with your projects!

[@kennethrussell7248]

After this video ill never get another quote again. Did our first dry pour slab 2 days ago and hell of alot cheaper than paying someone time and labor. Im hooked now already planning my next dry pour.

[@wandadavis8209]

Thank you. I think I can do this. I'm a single older woman...I can do this in small sections for a driveway. Like staggered blocked areas...not a solid drive. Smaller blocked areas is more manageable for me and doing it by myself. This video is so helpful and encouraging. Thank you

[@stephenswan3500]

Thanks to your video I've just poured my first dry-pour walkway. I'm still watering but I'm pretty happy with everything. I had to use 60 lb bags as I'm not young (70) anymore. I look forward to more of your DIY videos. On to the next project. All the best to you both. Thanks and keep up the great work.

[@gettinghealthynow1]

You guys rock! A lot of youtube idiots are trying to replicate your process and not following your directions and thereby ending up with crap results. Clearly you not only thought things through well but have learned from your experiences and shared your learning well. Love it. Will be doing a bunch of concrete work this summer I have been putting off because wet pouring is just too much work for a 70 + y/o it less than stellar condition.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you for the thoughtful comment! We just wanted to show the world an inexpensive way to have a slab that anyone can finish. We worked on perfecting our method for several years. Dry pouring a concrete slab is so easy….. maybe some of those people are just over thinking things….. Thank you for watching!

[@FisherCatProductions]

LOL Been there, am that. Too bad we don't live next door. We would probably drop dead together some day doing this stuff. Ain't no quit in me...yet.

[@FisherCatProductions]

@@CajunCountryLivin And a lot turf-guarding "professionals" with extensive non-experience in dry-pours criticizing a process they never tried and know nothing about.

[@hramsay8756]

I will be replacing my gravel walkway with a dry pour sidewalk this year, one section at a time. GREAT TIP on using an expansion joint between sections.4'L x 4'W =16' x 0.333H (4" = 1/3 of one foot) = 5.328 divided by volume of bag size (80 lb - 0.6 or 60 lb-0.45) = Number of Bags of Concrete needed. Thank you!!

[@panbuffman]

So Nine 80lb bags for a 4x4 square?

[@caribbeanqueen5589]

I was never good at math so this mathing aint working for me. I still trying to figure out how many bags for a 9x5 space. Ugh let me try it again.

[@johnn.238]

assuming it's 4 inches thick: 9x5x4/12/.6=25 80 lb bags

[@ningstover1221]

I’m a single Mom, I will try my best to do this in my place!!! Thank you for ALL the advice and money saving!! Love watching you guys!!

[@CajunCountryLivin]

You are so welcome!

[@McAnultyBunch]

We are in the process of finishing up the framing so we can then do the dry poor ours is 16’ X 16’ for our 16’ round pool to sit on. So nervous!!!

[@CaptSeeryus]

Saved a ton of money using your videos. Was able to repair the side of a porch with $15.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Our favorite thing to hear!!

[@joeykahng6219]

So happy I found ya'll. This is GENIUS!! Im in a desert, and dreading doing concrete slabs this summer. Now I see how affordable and minimal tools to be used, I can knock out the side of my house and extend my patio for a wheelchair path for my dad to the uprise garden I'm gonna build out for him. This is gonna make it soooo much affordable and easier. THANK YOU.

[@jaspercrutison6820]

I'm a professional carpenter with over 30 years of experience, and I've never seen this done. But, that's because sometimes tradition overrules ingenuity/creativity and common sense. 👍🏾 great job, guys, on thinking outside the box, and great work on the slabs... I'll let you know how mine turns out.❤

[@dalewarke7763]

You make it look so simple. Your instructions are very easy to follow. While I was watching this video, the wife walked in and said "when are you going to do that for our back yard". Thanks!!!

[@LanceStrzok]

I'm a huge concrete fan, and I have a request/suggestion. On your next poor, it would be neat to see if you made one of your form walls clear, or had a clear window, so that you could see how the mist/ water soaks in over the time that you do it. I think it would be insightful for you and your viewers. Just a thought, and keep up the great work!

[@ShadowzTubez]

This is a great idea

[@kjohnsonshelton0923]

Yes, please!!

[@jimbarrett3161]

@ Lance Strzok.....This gentleman "Michael Builds" does it all and does a test using 4 brands of concrete with 4 set forms with plexiglass on 1 side to see the progression of misting and drying and breaking them up after a 24 hour time to do comparisons! He has several videos this is the expert on concrete projects kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXO3en-omJmLZtE

[@michaelenderle5001]

What is the best concrete to.use? Is it possible to pour a driveway this way?

[@FisherCatProductions]

"Michael Builds" is another KZbinr who also recommends Cajun Country's videos. He posted a "Dry Pour Showdown" doing just that. It also shows how different the absorption rate is between 4 different concrete mixes, and how they looked inside after setting up. Michael does a lot of forensic dry-pour experiments,:these guys have great, pragmatic how-to tutorials. Kudos to both these channels.

[@wa13601]

1st time seeing your videos. THANK YOU! Am retired, in my 70's, on a budget. I CAN tackle a walkway on the side of my house! 😍

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Welcome!

[@richmac918]

Thanks for the video. I've poured more than my share of slabs over the years but I've never dry poured anything and always thought that term was something you would only consider doing on fence post holes or something that really didn't matter much. I never would have imagined that you could form dry concrete, water it a few times and end up with a solid slab that would cure all the way through. You two have inspired me to give this a try.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you for watching!

[@enochthrockmorton2nd214]

Wow!!! This new dry pour is amazing! I never would have thought about the alligator texture on the surface. You guys are becoming trendsetters. I love what you are doing.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you so much!

[@You-can-fix-it-yourself]

You guys have given me real hope. I'm disabled, and unable to do the mix and pour routine. I had to leave a gravel floor in my 12 x 24 shed. But now, you've shone me a way to have a real floor. Thank you sooooooo much.

[@wvwvwwvwvwvwvwvw]

Thanks you, this is awesome!! I wish I'd seen this technique years ago when I was hand mixing wet cement for various small concrete slabs in remote bush areas in Australia, was back breaking work, this would've been sooooo much easier. Also, I think the reason your slabs are so strong is because of the basic principle that "the LESS water used in cement mix, the STRONGER the concrete becomes". More water makes it weaker, and traditional wet cement mixing needs slightly excess water than what's required to set it, so the mix is workable (e.g. will mix in the cement mixer, can be shoveled, spread and leveled, etc.) Your technique is fantastic, because it means that you only add minimal water, so you get a super strong concrete set.

[@HWW2023]

Thank you! I'm 68 building off grid with my husband. This is such a blessing to us.

[@robertboyer5498]

This makes a lot of sense. I was always told if I wanted a strong slab to use as little water as possible when I mixed the concrete. This method uses the absolute least amount of water you can possibly use. I’m going to try this later this year.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Absolutely!! Good luck!

[@jakefriesenjake]

You got it! But after it's activated the whole 4" deep, keep it wet for as long as possible. Cover it too. Concrete cures with water present, to get stronger (28 days)

[@rgrea2]

I can do this and appreciate what you've done here. I can do small projects like this at my age (71) and will keep checking for new videos. God Bless your family

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Awesome!! So happy for you!!

[@diytwoincollege7079]

Just made a 6 x 8 x 4” thick slab for a shed. I followed your technique but I topped off the last 1/2” with high strength mortar mix. It made a nice smooth finish on top and helped hide the rocks easily. I was happy with how it looked and skipped the roller. Thanks for making these videos!

[@tracylouiseletch9450]

what mix do you use? Do you use a 50/50 mix of sand and gravel or what. I have been making small batches using that but am confuse about your mix

[@glenterry6297]

Did you add the mortar mix after the other was dry. Did you premix mortar or dry pour? I did a 10' x 12' dry pour and have a few areas where the top crust separated from the base and chipped away. Thinking of using mortar mix or patch to fill in. Any suggestions?@@tracylouiseletch9450

[@JFirn86Q]

That's pretty amazing. I'm super curious if anyone in the academic world has done research on this method, such as compression tests, erosion tests, etc. Concrete is often stronger with less water usage, but workers are always adding more water to the mix to make it workable (thus decreasing the strength). What's remarkable about this method is that it eliminates all the negatives of pouring concrete while also seemingly giving a high cement to water ratio. The only unknown is if it cures the same or not, or if the internal structure is different.

[@manicmarauder]

I think you're absolutely right. You'd get the maximum amount of concrete in the forms, and I suspect the maximum density from what you're using which should in theory lead to the maximum strength as long as you do the reinforcement right. That and you can spend your money on concrete instead of on a lot of water in the truck. The only issue with this would be using raw rebar since that'll rust no matter what. That would be next decade's problem though.

[@protonneutron9046]

well documented in the concrete world and academia. See data on shotcrete

[@protonneutron9046]

@@manicmarauder already solved. see basalt rebar.

[@veganpotterthevegan]

​@manicmarauder a decade of rebar rust is meaningless. Unless you're talking rebar that's going to be used in salt water, it won't even be a problem for your unborn great great great grandchildren and beyond

[@tedhumphries1759]

@@manicmarauder Your rebar should be kept a minimum of 2"-3" from any edge of the concrete ..... so that it is not exposed to any elements of weather. Also, you can buy epoxy-coated rebar which will definitely last your lifetime if not exposed.

[@AmberSmith-g1r]

I enjoyed watching you all pour the "alligator textured" slab....it has inspired me to think that my husband and I can do something similar here in NC. Thank you for walking through it step by step, it really makes a difference!

[@timothystutzman]

It’s officially a Cajun Country entrance with the gator slab. That is awesome! Way to go Jim and Lydia… as always I love how ya just do it. Every invention never existed until someone gave it a try. I love the gator slab.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you so much!!💟

[@susangerman7170]

You’ve inspired us to use this dry pour method for a slab at the bottom of our deck steps! These back steps don’t get a lot of traffic but our dog launches off the deck and hits the same spot leaving a bare spot that turns to a mud patch. So, after seeing your video we poured it today!

[@CajunCountryLivin]

That’s awesome! We can’t wait to hear how it goes Susan! You should put your pups Paw prints in it. 🐾

[@nicpedia2432]

How did it go? How thick did you guys decide to make it?

[@RichardsMovies]

How is the dog? Jumping down onto concrete can be hard on their little ankles and knees.

[@donniep2822]

I am here after my first misting on a 6 x 10 x 4 inch dry pour. The time and work saved versus mixing is unbelievable.

[@kharisma92]

How many concrete bags did you use for that pour?

[@380stroker]

​@kharisma92 should be 33.25 bags of 80lbs. Or you can do 44.33 bags of 60lbs.

[@adriankap2978]

@@380stroker That’s very nice you calculated that for kharisma. Math wasn’t my strong suit and need nice ppl like you for help. 👍

[@thomasgarrison3949]

Outstanding idea, I wet poured a 2'X2'x3.5" slab using a 20.9-Gal Black Large PVC Concrete Mixing Tub, it was a pain in the tail. I wish I had seen your video first, I would have saved so much time and pain in my back shoveling all that concrete into the form.

[@Justmusicandsuch]

As a single lady I truly appreciate your video and easy explanations and supply needs. I fixed a walkway that has been uneven pavers a pain shoveling during the winter with a new dry pour. Thank you for your videos

[@hw8621]

You both are just fantastic! It used to be backbreaking to pour wet concrete and getting the water mixture just right is not easy. Thank you for the great tutorial!

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you!

[@DrFiero]

I love the idea of 'no pressure' for time! Always felt so rush rush rush when doing it the conventional way. I'm going to start doing a thin "not-a-poured" apron in front of my shop, and instead of panicking about it, look forward to it!

[@isJudgingYou]

Sometimes projects like this need more muscles (or money) than I have, and it’s so frustrating to have to wait around for help. But, I feel confident that I can do this on my own even if it’s only a bit at a time. This will help a lot of DIYers.❤

[@PsyCoCinematics]

Take your time, you got this!

[@FtLMale1]

You can find 50 pounds of Quikrete at Lowe’s

[@Murrays_NY_Pekingese]

I am a single female and new home owner. I will be replacing a shed and creating a cute patio / pool space using this technique. Thank you!!!! Cannot wait to try this!!

[@CajunCountryLivin]

It’s really fun to do😊

[@forwimp]

Mind blown! I started mixing concrete with water when I was 11 to pour a retaining wall. We had a little 5 gallon bucket feed mixer run by an old washing machine motor. Mix and pour, Mix and pour, Mix and pour. I worked on that wall half the summer. I've done driveways and other pours during my life. I did the concrete mixer trailer that I towed home with my truck. In the middle of pouring that wet concrete, it started setting up before it came out of the trailer. That was a messy scramble that I don't want to repeat. When I put in a vinyl fence, I dumped dry bags of concrete mix in the post holes and that seemed to work, but I never though of doing this for finished flatwork. I've got a bunch of flatwork coming up in my yard and I'm going to try this. You made a very high quality video that's going to save a lot people time and trouble.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

You will love the results! Thank you for watching!

[@feszty]

Thank you, I love you guys! I will try my first dry pour in a few weeks. This method changed all my plans and I’m very excited to see how it will work for me. I think we should stop calling it dry pour and name this method after y’all.

[@professorg8383]

I'm impressed with how well this works without a lot of rushed, backbreaking work! I guess I stumbled onto a crude version of this 30 years ago while trying to make a better transition between a concrete driveway pad and what amounts to a sandy dirt road. It was a crude dry pour and I wasn't looking for any kind of finish. just guessed on wetting it. 30 years later, I'm still driving on it! It's not pretty but never was because I didn't do anything to finish it. I just dug out the area, dumped it and raked and screeded it even. Then wet it lightly, several time over a few hours. it's about 2 inches deep. I would have been happy if it lasted a few years, but I've got 10 times that out of it. It has cracks and crumbles which filled in with sand, but it is still locked together solidly. So now I see that you guys have refined this to a real process with results far beyond what I would have imagined! I've done a couple small slabs that worked out great following your instruction to the letter. I have even tried to analyze your method from an engineering perspective and it makes good sense But now I'm looking to do some bigger slabs and make the whole job even easier on the back. So I'm thinking a small power screed might help. I even did some testing with a jury rigged set up using a vibrating palm sander attached to a 2 x 4. it looks promising as it does compress the dry mix and seems to set the aggregate down a little deeper. I will do a test set up then using a roller and wetting per your method. So far the proof of concept seems good. There is a small battery operated one that's 4 foot wide that amazon sells for around $140. But I think I can build a better one that's adjustable for considerably less. To be honest, I think the jury rigged palm sander prototype is almost too aggressive. Screeding by hand isn't that hard, but it takes a little energy and you are bent over doing it. From what I have seen, the better you screed, the better the finish. Just to be clear, this is all while dry. So I'm wondering if you guys or anyone else has tried using a small power screed.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

We actually have used the setup the you used and it worked really good, but we only used it in small areas …. Like in tight corners and etc. Would be interesting to see what a powerscreed would do. Yes we do everything completely dry until we get the finish we like. Thank you for sharing and watching!

[@professorg8383]

@@CajunCountryLivin Kudos to you for figuring out a good method! If you are used to doing traditional wet pours, It's hard to keep from messing with it when it doesn't quite look like what you are used to. But I'm always looking for easier way to do things as long as any compromises are acceptable. My body has long outlived its usefulness in a Redimix pour!! But dry pour is pretty easy anad as far as I've determined, it fits most of my needs pretty well.

[@hramsay8756]

Having a 4" slab depth will come in handy should you ever need to park a lift there to work on the front of the porch. Good tip on the placement of the reinforcing wire!! The textured walkway surface will help dirt from boots and shoes from being tracked onto the porch.

[@bakobikes9304]

You guys are so cool I like how you work so well together...❤...I don't live in a wet area but I do know how to use the mist on my spray nozzle lol.. I actually work in concrete and I've always used mud...aka...wet concrete...you guys have questioning the whole presses....wet concrete you can pour and pull frame the same days like a few hrs after finishing...then you water to make it dry slow for strength....the slower it cures the stronger it is....but your method bypasses all that...dry pour... mist.. water ... 2 days later its done...cured and watered and all....lol...genius....I guess the instructions are on the bag for a reason...lol....awesome job...I appreciate you two...much lie from the youtube community ❤❤❤❤❤

[@harveysdtr]

Thank you!!! Now we know that misting and shower is only done for a few minutes and then wait an hour. I get it now. What you are showing us is a game and money changer!🎉🎉🎉

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you! So happy to help😊

[@jamiesullivan644]

Thanks for taking the time to share this with everyone. It has inspired me to take on a few project ideas that I've been procrastinating because they need a pad to sit on. I've used mixers in the past and the rushed anxiety of mix/pour/spread... repeat... seems like a race to beat the concrete setting up... including the headache of the mixer clean up. This method removes the anxiety issues and also the extra manpower needed to be sure to stay ahead of the clock. Brilliant Idea... Thanks again for sharing.

[@Lester-te3vb]

You two are something else. Always doing something that looks so amazing. The walkway is awesome I first thought ‘where is the water’ but then you explained it. So amazing how that works. Love your videos. I live in Alabama, almost next door.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you so much!!

[@annanelson6830]

Love your video. I have to say, I enjoy your Southern pace and relaxed outlook. A few times, I got a “Bob Ross” vibe…absolutely delightful.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you very much!

[@DM-fz3ly]

I would keep watering it for up to a month watering at least daily or twice a day. Since concrete cures best under water if it is still absorbing the spray I'd just keep it wet and even better for the first couple of weeks keep a plastic sheet over it. All in all a great video and a game changer for many homeowners!!! thanks for sharing.

[@ssdantheman]

I found this channel 2 days ago when I was considering buying a mini cement mixer to do my diy patio, small slab for a central ac unit, and a slab for a generator. I am so thankful for you and your channel. Watching you has taught me a bunch. Thank you! Keep up the good work!

[@janetstone236]

Excellent execution and instructions - and super excellent video editing - keeping us informed and engaged and not bored or hitting the FF line. Thanks so much. I need to build a new side walk to my house (removing the unlevel sandstone from 1965 because I don't want to fall and break my leg in 10 yrs at 73 yrs old going to get the mail!!! Love the roller texture idea!

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@flatworm00]

LMAO! I love how you have to give disclaimers on everything you do for the naysayers. You do excellent work and have super ideas. Please don't stop, very enjoying...

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you for enjoying!

[@Disappointed739]

I have always wanted a concrete skirt around any house that has a basement. This idea pretty much is the solution, I think. Of course expansion joints will be needed in colder country, but otherwise, it brings the project within the reach of a do it yourself-er! Thanks!

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Absolutely!

[@mariebee3146]

I did a dry pour today. Couple things i did to make it easier. First, get something to sift the concrete with. I used it to sift out the mortar and used that fine sand to fill in the small indentations caused by the agrigate. Second, when using the edger, lay it flat but keep the back lifted a bit otherwise it will keep digging into the concrete and ruining the finish. Took me a couple tries to get it right. That's the beauty of a dry pour. I was able to re-screed and try again. No time pressures.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Happy to hear that you used your own creativity to make this work easy for you!

[@baggerbiker1]

Thank you guys for the education. I did my first dry pour this weekend for a small ramp to our shed building. Came out flawless. My 77 year old skeptical dad was there watch. When I went over the powder with the paint roller, the magic happened and he was amazed. He now wants a dry pour done at his place. Lol

[@CajunCountryLivin]

That is awesome! So happy that your project turned out great!

[@Eddy.O]

It would be nice to see a dry pour with a old cobblestone texture but also adding a topical powdered color hardener to create a tan/light brown cobblestone look!

[@okmrocksU]

Yes, I agree, especially with using color. I am tearing out an old piece of deck and I wish to pour a small slab in it's place, but I wanted to use some color or combination of a tan or light brown to match the color of the homes brick. Maybe even using a brick shaped mold, to simulate the brick, or possibly a stone paver mold. Applying these while it is dry would be a great help.

[@BrilliantDesignOnline]

The best part is, you can tell visitors that you and her grabbed a real gator and held him upside down by the legs and used him to make the impressions 🙂 This is fantastic, I have never even imagined you could do this, and it came out brilliant. Your detail slow pan close up shots were excellent.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Lol! Too funny! Thank you for watching!

[@whiteywalker7097]

So helpful. I now know how I can deal with my dry desert yard to cover the dirt. Much better than trying to lay pavers across the entire area.

[@warmac57]

We been dry pouring holes to set poles for 18 foot lights. Pour a little dry crete in bottom of hole, tamp flat, set post or pole in hole and dump in a dry sack. Use a straight spade as a tamp, moving around the hole until the crete firms (yes the crete will firm up from the sharp spade edge, do not flat tamp or it won't firm up) pour in another sack and repeat. No water needed and you can mount your light fixture right away. We have done this for 12' to 18' 4 inch light poles with a 2 to 3 foot hole for years with great success.

[@luwanacouch2617]

I just wanted to tell you thank you for your videos. I’m 67 and a woman by myself but I have grandkids ages 10 and 13 who help me a lot. (Boy and girl) After watching your video I decided that we could pour a 4 x 3 slab in front of one of my sheds Also made it slanted a little bit. I was nervous at first, so watched your video numerous times before I built up the courage that we could actually do it. The kids helped me pour the cement powder. they helped me skreet .They helped me water. Now, A month later it’s beautiful still, and now we’re a getting ready to tackle a bigger project. All thanks to your video and your step-by-step, instructions which made it so easy. Again, thank you so much 👏👏😊

[@joedogmckeel]

Thanks to you guys I am going to tackle a huge dry pour later this spring. a 10x20-4 inches thick. My plan is to do it in 8 sections (5X4). This video gives me an idea of how much time it will take per section. I was looking at full week+ to do it. This has cut it to maybe 4-5 days. After clearing setting and forming, If I start at 7am by 9 I should be ready to start the watering process on 4 sections. Giving your method, that would have it done by 7pm at the latest. I do plan on doing a real time (as much as possible) video. I may pull an old trick a finisher taught me for some of the low spots. Sift a bag of the aggregate so you can have just the powder to fill the low spots.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

WOW!! That’s a big one. That’s great you got it all ready and figured out. That’s a great tip! Let us know how it goes!

[@stevehamman4465]

Or you can buy a bag that doesn't have aggregate. Aggregate adds a certain amount of tinsel strength and bonding.

[@junaidjunaid5574]

I have a slab to do and not afraid anymore to get to it thanks to you guys!! Never dreamt of drycreting😂 before but can't wait to start. Love the vids.

[@arlenelamas5480]

❤ job well done .thank you it was great .

[@jessicacathey1144]

You inspired us to work on our back patio! We don't have a mixer and to hire someone was out of the budget. We are doing multiple slabs and since our main framing is done I have been able to do it myself while my husband is at work! Thank you so much for sharing a new way to do concrete!

[@ctlt-pg4tm]

Make sure you always put expansion joint between the hardened slab and the new slab

[@JOHNMORIN100]

THANKS : when I was young the road construction was all concreete RCC ROLER COMPACTED CEMENT. POURED DRY JUST AS YOU HAVE DONE.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

😊

[@haroldwright5013]

y'all are absolutely amazing. When I get home from being offshore I am making a patio for my trailers, NO MORE WEEDEATING under them yay me!.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you! That’s a great idea!

[@robertmyers5993]

I Love the "Gator-crete" pattern!! Thanks for these tutorials. You guys are awesome!

[@MrBeezer24]

Thanks so much. I did a dry pour in an area that was washed out and it was so easy. No more erosion and it looks great 😊

[@CajunCountryLivin]

That’s so great!!😁😃😀

[@dr.delandrachelleingram4405]

I’m so glad I found you all!! My spouse and I are going to start our dry pour projects this weekend!! Thank you so much for making our lives easier!! Can’t wait!😊

[@kennethrussell7248]

Do it!!! Just did our 1st dry pour 2 days ago. Loved it!!!! Dont have to have concrete experience. Just listen to the experts in this video. Fyi. Home depots concrete is cheaper than lowes in Virginia anyways for 60 lb bags.

[@jaylittle695]

Just wanted to share that I poured a 8'x8' x4" slab this morning by my self using you guys method. I poured it in less than 2 hours, using 25 bags of concrete mix @ a cost of $85 😊and am very happy with the end product. Being a skeptic I poured a 20"x12" test slab using 1 1 bag of concrete mix. I let it cure 24 hours , broke it in two and saw that it was wetted and cured all the way through. I highly recommend this young couples method. I followed it with the exceptiereon of more frequent wetting as I live in New Mexico and it is much more arid here. Thanks for this video.

[@adriankap2978]

I finally found this a husband and wife couple who do all sorts of things from yard work to putting in ceiling fans etc. Yesterday I asked them to look at your videos so they can do some projects for us around the house doing this method. The husband texted me saying “wow, this is so cool and amazing.That he’s turned down jobs because he thought it was too much for he and his wife to do but that’s all changed.” This is a game changer for so many ppl. With the help of your vids I could do it myself but the bags are just way too heavy for me to lift and move but glad I found this couple to do it easily and just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have such a beautiful family to. To quote Spock, “live long and prosper” friends. ; )

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you so much for sharing!

[@williampetsch1244]

Hi, I’m Bill from Minnesota. This is fantastic! And I’m convinced enough to try this for a foundation for a 12X10 shed I want to build. And the fact the both of you doing this makes it exciting for me to do this with my wife. I’m 72 years old and about 30 years ago used to help a friend do concrete. Doing it the traditional way just became too hard for me, and about 8 years ago we tried just pouring a 4X4 using bag concrete and it turned out bad👎 my wife was helping me and it became too much for her to help mix the sackete while I was trying to smooth it out. Your approach just seems so much more simple and doable. Thanks for the great videos. Bill, a fan!

[@jdimeo1966]

Thank you so much for doing another "dry pour" video covering a 4" slab. I wanted to do a 4" slab and wasn't sure how many times to "shower" the concrete. This is one of the best time saver, back saver, money saver ideas I've seen for DIY'ers on youtube.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you so much!

[@jakefriesenjake]

Concrete does not dry. It cures with water. You must keep it wet and covered as long as possible. In 28 days, it is fully cured and hard. You can't over water it. Just mist it at first to keep the finish you like. Just follow there showering tips and if anything, shower it more often and for longer. They're tips are minimum requirements. Keep it wet! It prevents cracks. I believe dry pour actually stronger than wet pour concrete. Need to test.

[@skiplacoste5431]

You mentioned that you don't really want the ground wet because it could interfere with the roller finish. If the ground is already wet, you can put down a vapor barrier before putting down the dry mix. This will allow more time to work without worrying about the concrete wicking up the ground moisture. Also, if unexpected rain comes, you can cover the topside to protect your work. Just make sure you leave enough barrier around the perimeter to fold over your work before placing a tarp or plastic over the top.

[@DaveGuerra]

Thanks. My wife and I did a 6' x 6' x 2" dry pour in one day. Thanks for the inspiration to Do It Ourselves. Your videos on Dry Pour were spot on!

[@marthaclements97]

I for one truly love the look and I’m 66 years old and always work with dry concrete but never made a block as bigs as that but will this summer thanks for sharing this

[@fattysgarage1754]

I’ll bet a concrete stamp would also work well making a stone or paver look. You guys gave me some great ideas! Thanks so much for making these videos!

[@bethal]

Y'alls videos continue to get better and better every week. Love the channel and look forward to seeing the great job that y'all have done on your little piece of heaven. Take care and GOD bless

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you so much!!☀️❤️

[@kevkev5935]

Y'all did a great job with this. I'm going to be putting down an 8x8 slab for a hot tub so I've been toying around whether to dry pour smaller sections or bite the bullet and rent a mixer and wet pour the whole slab.

[@FistandFootMartialArts]

I had never even heard of "dry pour". I have a small project that I have wanted to do for *YEARS* but was intimidated with the whole mixing thing. I don't really know why the algorithm put this in my feed, but I'm glad it did!!! I may never come back to this channel, as it's not really my thing, BUT just for the concept and this primer on this concept alone, I gave you a "subscribe". BIG THX!.😀😀😀

[@clivedredge]

I have been doing similar slabs for over 50 years... I learnt this trick from one of the engineers in one of our army units .... One thing for us here in South Africa is we do not get a total y dry mix bag... Our Bags have the cement separate in a plastic bag so you still have to mix the contents..... Now this can be a blessing as you start with damp sand,,,,, but a curse as you do have to work a little quicker.... Never seen one of my dry pour labs break up and I have done a few..... Well done guys and keep it going....

[@rdewey51]

I'm a big fan of fiber. It is cheap and it functions much like rebar or steel reinforcement; it prevents cracks. If you need a question from the audience to inspire another video (this one was great! Very useful!) try the same technique with a bit of fiber mixed in as you rake, instead of the metal, and compare. I'll bet the fiber performs just as well, and it is easier.

[@CuriousinNY]

Hi, what kind of fiber. I’m new to this channel and new to concrete. Can you please explain what you mean by fiber and how you would add it. Thank you and I look forward to seeing your response.

[@johnzillner1596]

@@CuriousinNY I believe @rdewey51 is talking about using fiberglass fibers within the dry pour.

[@suimengher]

Saving this !!! I'm doing a slab for my shed soon and thank you so much for showing how simple it can be done without spending so much. ❤

[@CajunCountryLivin]

You are so welcome!

[@gagatube]

Thanks for the detailed explanation - you make it sound incredibly simple! Plus I'd never heard of using a paint roller for finishing texture... 🤯 👍💯

[@marciamills2900]

Yes, thank you for this. My husband wasn’t convinced that it would work for 4” and now he is after seeing this. I’ll post after we are done. Going for a 5x11

[@tybritt1]

You sure taught me something, where were you 6 years ago that's a beautiful finish on the concrete I've always broomed my cement so no one or the shod horses would slip on it but I like your finish a lot better. Ty

[@marshamercer876]

WOW! That walk way is impressive. What a great job you two did. It's very beautiful.

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you!

[@Garfield.Farkle]

I'm glad to see the statement at the beginning about wearing a mask. Concrete dust is like breathing ground up glass into your lungs and once it's in there, it's not coming out. For the joint against the existing slab. I'd suggest using a couple of asphalt shingles cut 4 inches wide. Also, what I used to do was after emptying a bag, roll it up and put them in another bag right then to minimize cleanup later on. That concrete is going to get on your hands and it's suck the oil from them. I used to get a container of Palmer's shea butter and put it on my hands beforehand and it really helps. I'm liking the gator finish a lot. It might have been interesting to first do a pass across there in an 'S' -shape, then follow that with subsequent passes. As it is, I like what you got. I think it will wear nicely. I wouldn't like it if it was further north where we get temps below freezing because that rough surface would hold a lot of snow and ice that could not be gotten off of there and would be a hazard. Having that approach section being more rough it should be really good with people walking up to your house with mud on their shoes. I always mixed concrete and am still concerned with how well it sets. I'd like to see what it looks like in a year or two. Also, I give you much credit for your relaxed attitude and the way you keep it positive with a focus on doing something for a positive result to make life more enjoyable. One more thing - whenever I poured concrete for something like that, on the side I used to imbed a penny whose date is the year of the pour. I always thought that was a nice touch.

[@prestcs]

Really appreciate you making and sharing this video. I especially like the little tips here and there as you walk through the process, so there's no surprises. Something a lot of the other DIY videos don't do. Thanks again! Can't wait to get started on my first dry pour project.

[@esmolem]

Oh my God! I was minutes from ordering a mix concrete pour. Then I started watching measurements and a way to spread it myself in KZbin, but like "Take a Break" says with no help but myself making a 125 sq ft slab. Well, now I'm going to do it in sections and in no hurry. God bless you guys. That is a awesome idea. I like cooking so, in between showers Ill be in the kitchen.

[@LookitzDH]

I live in southern AZ and we are already over 90 degrees outside and that sun is no joke. I am going to use your method on a 10x15 slab, but will be drilling into the small patio we have to install 3/4 in rebar for support. This method will not only allow me to not die of heat stroke but will also give my back a break. Appreciate all the insight!

[@billykeener3167]

That was very unique and looked absolutely amazing. Just a couple thinking people doing things they like. Something more people should be doing nowadays. Out of the box and fantastic. Congratulations on a gorgeous new walkway. 👍👍

[@CajunCountryLivin]

Thank you so much Billy! 😄

[@yosefaharapcio4953]

You guys are great! And the way you talk addressing all the opions ! Your both Awesome! I have done 2 dry concrete prodjects . Thanks to you they came out great ! even when the rain came in 3 hours after it was finished : )

[@norma-jeanhoniball2410]

A whole new world opened up to me now - thank you for making it so simple - it doesn't seem so intimidating anymore 🥳

[@SD-mg7np]

love how you guys say everything with a smile and the croc roller was the cherry on top. " just to be clear.. again..no water has been added" great work guys

[@leecampbell7522]

A first time viewer and subscriber, I scrolled down through many comments and didn't see any that mentioned my suggestion. So, here it is. I think it is much easier to figure out how many cubic feet your "pour" requires by measuring all 3 dimensions in INCHES. To get the answer, multiply L" x W' x H" and then divide that number by 144 (aka 12x12x12). Also, I usually buy a little too much of whatever my projects require. Returning unneeded product as your time allows is easier than scrambling to get more in the middle of a project. An uneven base can create a classic example. Great Video. Thanks.

[@roberthumphrey8283]

Hi there I think you mean 12x12x12 = 1728. If you only divide by 144 you will end up with 12 times as many bags as you need