Simplest Way to Mix and Pour a Concrete Slab

[@martinvallejo1987]

Hey Jeff , as Union cement mason out of California. I really admire the fact that you're out there just getting after it. Doing what you need to do Sir, yes a lot of the methods you implemented are indeed DIY, however it gets the job done. what I see in this video is genuine hard work ethic and humbleness with a great attitude!!! Keep it bud !!

[@bend4852]

Agreed. Not everything has to be done completely right. Shortcuts can be taken to make the job easier and cheaper

[@santacruzman]

Kiss kiss.

[@stevenkarkkainen8115]

😂

[@Rocco1994]

@@koisolare correct.

[@charliebrandon7882]

I think you blew this one I couldn't. I can show you a lot about putting concrete down. And I'll never have to go back and get more concrete anyway, you try it.

[@jamesf2697]

I do this work all the time at work. We would drill holes into the side of the existing and put some thin rebar so after time the pad doesn't sink or rise from the existing.

[@midreams]

How does that work with the expansion joint?

[@niklasduschaable]

​@@midreamsyou have to notch or drill through the expansion. My company also does this. Did not realize people actually skip the step until now lol

[@jetfixer8198]

EXACTLY RIGHT, join existing concrete with new pour. Use a powerful 1/2 drill and mason bit, drill as far as you desire and insert rebar about every 16” inches as desired, You can even shoot concrete gap filler into the hole to keep rebar from moving, but in many cases…. Just hammer the rebar in. Also, in this video I would have used simple rolled garden fencing to give concrete resistance to cracking. Cut the fencing to fit with good wire cutters and use anything to poke into the ground to keep the fencing elevated during the pour.

[@Meatball2022]

@@jetfixer8198if you dig a bit more down, would it also work to put the rebar under the bottom edge of the existing slab?

[@Truthseeker-cv2mvp]

Exactly what i did when turning a 9x9 into a 50x10

[@asantellan9745]

I just want to thank you for being kind and generous with your knowledge and sharing it with others. You have been my go to for DIY videos because my dad built our house but he never finished it, and to say he left it half done, would be an understatement. I have shared your videos with my friends and they have taken on projects now in their homes as well and also come over and help me with whatever mine is that month. Wish you could see us, running back to my trailer that is behind the house so we can review your videos again while we are working, lol. Because of your videos, I unlocked a hidden talent but ALSO ended up discovering that I can carve wood as good as I draw. So I also do relief wood carvings. I, along with my buddy, have managed to reframe, insulate and put new panels into a used travel trailer I purchased years ago, along with redid the entire plumbing for it. It is my "Chic Cave", and also doubles as my work office. I just finished building a dog kennel from scratch, we put a new door onto my dad's house and also put new tile in the bathroom because was just a cement floor beforehand. And now we are taking on finishing/remodeling the kitchen in my dad's house. My dad doesn't even doubt me anymore. He is encouraging and looks forward to my projects because he knows it always turns out looking great and is seeing his house being transformed. My only regret is that I had discovered this ability to build and woodwork after my ma passed away. But this is why I push my daughter to try different things because what you were made to do may be found in the craziest of places.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

well done. there is no limit to our potential if we simply try. Cheers!

[@heatherroydiy]

He really is the BEST!

[@POOCHIESCLOSET]

Amen! Good on you.

[@MAKABALLA]

Heart warming, thanks for sharing.

[@seankim2743]

If I can mix the intelligent articulation of a college professor with calloused hands of a construction professional, I get Jeff. Always a pleasure and inspiring to listen to and watch how these are done. Thank you.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers. and thanks for watching.

[@zteaxon7787]

An old school college professor you must refer to otherwise it's quite an insult.

[@markadams4316]

I did concrete for 17 years. Always had to adapt and improvise. Using that flashing for your curved edge worked great. Only recommendation- work toward your expansion board. Then you don’t have to pull and push it while in wet concrete. Good job!! 👍👍

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Thanks for sharing

[@Rays-yn5yg]

Looks great, anyone criticizing and trying to make it better is proving their greed in keeping people from doing their own work. I’m sure for structural surfaces additional prep and additional work can be done. This is a great diy and you don’t need to hire “jack the concrete dude” for it lol

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

truth is they won't even call back once you tell them how small it is. Cheers!

[@montytanner966]

Next time you want to form a curve buy some pvc trim boards. And drive your screws from the outside of the pour so you can pull your stakes then pull forms much easier.

[@mibanez915]

The fun police has arrived. Lol

[@TristanJCumpole]

I'm far from being an expert in concrete work, but there's a lot of criticism in this comment section! I'm sure that we need to remind ourselves that the purpose here is how to make a simple concrete walkway, not a weight-bearing slab that is going to be built on, driven over, etc. Something that you can achieve yourself armed with basic knowledge. Can it be better? Sure, but that requires expense, practice and a lot more effort. Can it be worse? Absolutely, by a long way. The basics are covered, and the video arms you with enough to get a job done that meets the requirement and doesn't blow your budget. It's all good.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

so you paint and you are claiming my concrete is no good. Hmmm. thanks doctor!

[@michaelrdegroat]

​@@HomeRenoVisionDIYI think you replied to the wrong comment. He was defending you, not critiquing.

[@CalebGibbsAvenue]

Idk what's the big deal. 🤷‍♂️ Jeff knows what the average homeowner should know. Pros don't have all the answers. I can do a job and fail and have to do it all over again, but more than likely, I can fail and still be better off being a DIYer cuz the cost of labor is not cheap. The pros will make the same mistakes, and I'll still have to pay for the mistakes etherway, so I would rather be the one responsible and be the student that gets pad to learn. Jeff needs some respect.

[@talay2005]

​@@-josh777You've been sniffing too many paint fumes mate 🤣

[@Mountain-Man-3000]

@@michaelrdegroat He did not make a mistake. The painter was the critic.

[@SoLo-xm2qu]

I've been doing concrete work for almost 20 years now and I must say for not having alot of concrete experience along with being creative and working with the bare minimum and spending the least amount of money in order to complete the task at hand. The finish prodect looks good for wjat you had to work with. So for tjay much respect to you sir!.

[@jcodol3334]

These videos are great and have helped me out so much! You show your mistakes and how to fix them. I respect that.

[@collectiondegd528]

Sir, I keep watching your videos because these days we are doing a diy in our new house. Your videos are genuine. You show your mistakes and learn from it. Thanks for the ideas and for sharing!

[@chrisoconnell8432]

That tip on how to pour a bag of concrete into the pale was golden. I've only done it a few times but always struggled cause I would cut the bag from the top and make a mess trying to shake it out. Almost look forwards to the next time I need to mix concrete 😁

[@terrymcchesney383]

Love to see you showing what seems to be old school these days. I rarely see edges put on any concrete around here anymore. It never looks completed, i'll take that old school edge any day. Nice job!

[@stephenfallis9374]

I want to thank you for a trick you showed in a different video. On reversing your drill for enough time to burn the hole and then setting screws into pine. The time it saves from pre drilling is in tons. Plus iv never split my work material not even once. What a valuable tip.

[@Mustash-Tony]

After watching 50 videos on dry pour concrete, this seemed like the perfect project for it.

[@abackimages5351]

I agree would have prevented so many issues

[@scon1425]

Dry pouring is generally a much less robust way to form concrete.

[@KrisRatliff75]

Jeff, I find it therapeutic and funny the way you described it there at the very end "Just keep pulling everything up hill. If there is something you don't like, screed it. And, when you've got it just perfect, throw one more little line in there. Get that detail. Put that edge on there.". It was very reminiscent to me of Bob Ross doing a painting.

I made my first small concrete slab one month ago... was very satisfied. It was around 40 "x 60" area and used around 20 60lb bags... Thanks for the video, added more ideas and encourage me to continue ahead...

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Nice work!

[@denisefarrell7786]

40 inches by 60 inches took 20 bags?…seems like a lot

[@davidg8032]

He learned from Jeff not to underestimate the amount of concrete you'll need. @@denisefarrell7786

[@jamesconner3437]

​@denisefarrell7786 ...4" deep it would calculate to about 6 bags.

[@PatrickKane-f3m]

how much did you take back to store?

[@cooperw22]

Right on que, I planned on pouring a slab for my family member and Jeff rolls out this. Perfect timing!

[@williamwilson6499]

Cue.

[@JustinBilyj]

@@williamwilson6499 queue

[@seanwarner4521]

I did a similar shape but instead of using Aluminum for the edging, try using a plastic garden edging . Example: Lowes "Black Plastic Landscape Edging Roll" and flip it so the smooth edge is the side that faces the Concrete. It's is a stiffer material so you don't need as many stakes and the bends are a lot smoother

[@Josephine-sm2db]

Good idea, thanks!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Love that Sean. Cheers!

[@Clintscollectiblez]

Yeah that stuff for edges of gardens?

[@robertr1096]

I was thinking 1/8" hardboard ripped to 4" strips if'n you have a circular saw handy.

[@tjxc1477]

Hardie board siding,,,,, and you gotta tap it so after you wreck the forms it’s not honeycombed

[@danielbstone87]

you'll probably never see this, but this was the video that got me started on your channel. i've watched untold videos of yours since then and i'll never look back. you've saved buttloads of money. thank you for these videos, thank you for being awesome.

[@Kisgard]

Nice video good effort. A few things to note. 1. Don't use metal flashing, it will make a wavey curve, use 5/16 Masonite (home depot) bows really evenly down to a 18" radius and cheaper. 2. put wire mesh in, especially if your not in sandy soil like Florida. The sandy soil is stable so not a lot of movement. But other places, PVR (potential vertical rise) can be 4" Concrete WILL crack that is a guarantee all by itself no load. wire mesh or rebar will hold it together. Colder climates have moisture get into the cracks, freezes and breaks it apart. 3. Dowel into the pavement, so when the soil moves both slabs move together, prevents trip hazards. it is also why you don't want to go with 2" of concrete, #3 rebar is 3/8 leaving 3/4" concrete above and below. go with 3-1/2" or 4"

[@FB-gm6el]

A for effort?

[@pablolee5679]

The music, your voice, the work itself are so soothing. It was perfect for my Sunday afternoon. Thank you!

[@MBMCincy63]

@pablolee5679 I believe that it is currently Saturday the 10th of June, but You may be over the date line. But I echo what you wrote and agree, He has a soothing way to explain things.

[@JohnBrown-z2u]

@@MBMCincy63 Yeah that freaked me out for a minute. Thought I had the day wrong.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I'm so glad!

[@timmannchicken]

Happy little lines. I really appreciate your style of talking through the work along the way, and calling things that might trip someone up (lines on the concrete) for those us who have worked with concrete before. So helpful.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@giancarlocedeno8228]

So much negativity , thanks for your extremely helpful videos man. You’re the best. Just a young man in his 20s trying to maintain my first home! Thank you

[@michaelraduazzo6146]

I dont know Jeff. Anytime I see you near concrete i cant help but think of the concrete countertop video!😂😂 It was like an Abbot and Costello bit!!😂😂

[@chrisjimenez603]

That sounds funny I will look it upl

[@jorgiep09]

Great work 👏, im a metal framer/drywaller by trade in houston and belive me i take on any task necesesary around tge house from plumbing to electrical,fencing and small concrete jobs , when a man is a hard worker in construction 🚧 every task around the house becomes simple bc we have alot of tools and knowledge in the game

[@MadRhetorik.]

The average homeowner needs to know how to do basic concrete and I think this covers the bases. I grew up skipping school and pouring concrete with my dad and he started me out on sidewalks and small curbs and quickly graduated to driveways. Now as a homeowner I’m so glad I know how to do concrete.

[@Clintscollectiblez]

I grew up around tradesmen my dad and uncles were all in union steel,carpenters,masonry,sheet metal I learned all that growing up grateful now too I learned from old school guys who learned from even older school guys who had ton of knowledge.

[@conchim99]

Pouring my diy backyard slab today. I got my drum mixer used offer up $100 , 30 bags 90 lbs and chicken wire used from offer up $60 almost half used.

[@ih3956]

Jeff always doing the next project i'm about to get started on i swear. It's UNCANNY. Hats off for working cement in Florida in May/June. Brutal!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

truth is I did it a few weeks ago. but I like to have video inventory because life happens and I refuse to ever miss a weekly upload. Cheers!

[@gizmobently]

I do not watch every single video that Jeff puts out but as a home builder for over 55 years people have to understand that everyone has a different way of doing things. I really do not understand why anyone would dispute his way, or anyone else's way of doing anything. It really is that simple. You can watch him and disagree but then why watch at all? All this is hard work and in that FL. sun even harder. You can watch and make suggestions but unless you are sweating your ass off doing it, no one has any right to criticize. Would I have done this job the exact same way? No. But then I am not the person buying the material or busting my ass off doing it. Just best to shut up and do your own thing, as they used to say. And in this field of work there are many of them. When it is your job you are the boss and every single person who watches or even works under you can offer suggestions but if you criticize on my job you would get fired. Since this is a video just walk away. Ridiculous is all I can say. And yes, I watch these for entertainment and learning as well. No one will ever know it all. I personally enjoy watching different ways of doing things.

[@BattlestarCanada]

Silicosis is no joke my man, other than that - she turned out beautiful! Cheers!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

just hard to get silicosis with occasional exposure outside is all. Cheers!

[@vicenterios9264]

Thanks man. I've been looking at a bunch of videos all of them make. It seem like you have to pour each bag at the same time. Now I really feel like I can make a 40×10 slab. Without getting ripped off.

[@EasyChuckX]

Definitely buy or rent a mixer. 40x10 is a ton of bags. We’re soon to finish an 80x12 area in phases. I was quoted 10-14k and we’ll have it done for $2500 with materials and 4-5 days of solo work.

[@josiespreitzer1690]

You e helped me with SO MANY remodeling projects, Jeff! But I would have put the mixing bin down in the concrete hole, so any spills would land in the sidewalk area

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

nice! Cheers josie!

[@vaitogitaetuli3600]

Sir, you are doing a great job. Keep doing what you are doing, educating all Americans. I appreciated.

[@JosVanWeesel]

Also another tip I learnt the hard way: always overestimate the material you need. If you think you need 10 bags, buy 15. If you end up needing 11 bags, would you rather pack up all your stuff and drive to the nearest store for 1 more bag, or after the job is finished return the 4 bags you didn't need?

[@davidg8032]

You are correct! I could see he didn't have enough concrete from the get-go. You don't want to let your concrete slab getting hard while you venture to the store for another bag. Do you know what a cold joint is? It's not good!

[@davidg8032]

Especially when it comes to pouring concrete.

[@treygreene4470]

I love your creativity and the fact that you walk and talk us through the process. Keep them coming!!

[@kevinagner5199]

If you measure the correct amount of water onto a bucket ● then mark it ● you can have a consistent mix by refilling to the mark.

[@mtsflorida]

I saw those few bags and I said I'd like to see that trick. Everything you talked about was brilliant. I bought a diamond 8 1/2 " blade for a circular saw and curved all my corners to prevent crackibg down the road. Of course putting in expNsion joints is easy while its still soft after being broomed or finished. Good job!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

cheers not easy on a hill when you are running out of daylight.

[@Kyle-ev4fk]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY You have to start before noon, Jeff.

[@chipm2544]

No doubt! I knew it would happen, & it did, I ran out of daylight this past Sunday! Duh!@@Kyle-ev4fk

[@hackatak]

NIce job, only thing I might have done differently is using some of that same expansion joint or even siding, which are very flexible as your form for the curve and then set the level on the form with the driveway, for a cleaner look.

[@TripPiper]

Im near the Canadian border. And I’m trying to extend a concrete pad so I can build a larger shed. And after I dig about 2 ‘ I hit granite, quartz or some other kind of stone. So to get it level I have to build pour concrete right above the highest peak of stone or take pic axe and chip away until it is flat. I’ll just pour concrete to level it and get a flat surface. I guess this good because I never have to worry settling

[@fernandomingo2398]

This is pure gold! Thank you friend.

[@johnnyd2375]

I love how you always find a way to re-invent the wheel, keeps me entertained. Thank you!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

My pleasure! When working on a budget you need to get creative!

[@MojoPup]

Thanks for making these concrete pad videos! I'm getting ready to do some small pads and this along with your shed pad videos are so helpful.

[@lprince3884]

I did exactly what u did with the aluminum flashing yet i had to rent a small cement mixer because since the texas heat and my area was an 3ft wide by 12ft long. Love your videos.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Nice work!

[@lances6466]

I've been watching a lot of videos on diy sidewalks lately. Stumbled across your video. Very well made video, your comments and suggestions were nonstop, you kept the video moving, all while explaining everything you were doing and why you were doing it! 26 and a half minute video and I couldnt stop watching! Only thing is I wish you would have shown the final product a little more! Overall, a terrific 10 out of 10 video. I really enjoyed it and will check out your other videos!

[@thomasnash167]

I ran the building materials department of Home Depot and one thing I did find out was, who came up with the idea of putting 60 lbs/80 lbs in a paper sack. Groceries don't work in a paper sack.

[@jakefriesenjake]

Yeah, I agree.

[@imogeneclark2518]

Great job..Listen I have done plenty of beautiful DIYs .. and in today's world ...just doing anything yourself is at the top..I'm 64 and have seen hundreds of concrete mishaps by said professionals... great stuff is inside this mans mind heart and abilities..keep sharing....hate mail shouldn't be here ..welcome to the USA.. 22 years traveling around our globe..we here have such a sad outlook where life can easy..let's not be ugly.. sad folks need to go live in others countries outside this continent..Keep sharing Thanks

[@rico1319]

You are certainly one talented professional Remodeler. But I was kind of shocked how you made such a mess on the driveway when you could’ve been mixing on the yard? Also would’ve you needed some rebar drilled in to the existing concrete to secure it to the other slabs and maybe even a little bit of wire mesh to lay down?? Thanks for the video.

[@kevinguthrie3610]

You definitely inspired me to try some curved radius sidewalks at my house. I'm also determined to use hardware store materials, already cut to width. I've tried to think of something bendy, yet able to stake down...and I want the top to be at the top grade so I can screed material and make it level-ish. I'm going to try some synthetic decking for broad curves, which it should bend no problem...and maybe use a hair dryer to heat it up where curves need to be tighter. The only other thing I can think of is PVC boards, but they are thin and I'd probably have to use short screws.

[@Tonyroseauthor]

Well done mate, the flashing worked well. The expansion joint I allow it sit above the finished concrete and then cut it with stanley knife. Works quite well and avoids any trip hazards.

[@davidg8032]

Makes no sense to leave the expansion joint high and then have to cut it off later. I'd love to see how nicely finished that expansion joint looked after you hacked it off.

[@PAINT_S_CAPES]

Last year my wife and I tackled our first cement slab in our pump house. Our used buy ($200 electric cement mixer) was perfect for the job. We aced our project. Cost us a whole $50 versus hiring a contractor who would have probably charged a $500 min flat fee. To all the women out there... start relying on yourselves... we can (easily) do these jobs. It's not rocket science. Don't be intimidated by tasks ... just do it! Thx for the tips Jeff. And thx to the cement pros here for bringing the rebar enforcement between the two. Will do!!

[@domenickm1966]

Nice Vid, I would advise most to avoid those gradual pointy corners. they almost always crack, especially if there is no wire in the concrete.

[@MarkDiamond2]

Yep, I have a slightly curved driveway, and where it meets the sidewalk (the slightly pointy piece) cracked after only a few months, and it has rebar.

[@jakefriesenjake]

If you have to have a point, make it way thicker in that area to support it

[@crystalmas6685]

Omg, I live in Florida! I can't believe I missed you! Come back! I'd love to become one of your clients!

[@thetechnician832]

Formwork use ply even for curve, then you can screed off top of form work for level surface.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

no such thing as a level surface on a rounded hill. but thanks!

[@markvickery5894]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIYyou can make any surface level no matter what you’re on

[@charg1nmalaz0r51]

@@markvickery5894 i think you missed the point, he doesnt want a level surface, he wanted the slope to follow the hill

[@ek8137]

Perfect snowbird home slab pad! Nothing more needed! Thanks for doing this one for us DIY folk

[@elisabethjones4917]

Is there a part two to this?

[@chiefedup]

Jeff that is so ingenious. Thanks for your time and intuitive DIY videos. This will help me with my next slab pour.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Glad to help, just be careful of the edge of that aluminum. it's sharp!

[@davidg8032]

No shit! Not a wise choice of material to say the least!@@HomeRenoVisionDIY

[@ScottyLo]

Congratulations on your new property / forever home. Can’t wait to see the transformation of the new property and the new house being built.

[@jereme123]

PVC trim board from azek works great for curves, just super pricey. Lauan plywood is a good option too.

[@montytanner966]

Price isn't that big a deal when you can re use the pvc multiple times.

[@Houstonee1425]

It’s good that this build is for a walk area with cars/trucks and all your going to want to add rebar and gravel underneath, but i’m sure you know that. Props to the work though i’m a huge fan of your daily videos!

[@JustinBilyj]

Love these concrete videos Jeff! I look forward to seeing you partner with someone to pour a house or cabin. That'll be epic!

[@JustinBilyj]

Also - awesome music variations!

[@JustinBilyj]

11:45 I like to throw some concrete in a bucket of measured water and use a heavy duty paint paddle to stir it up

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

we will see! Cheers Justin!

[@jourdeflamme8235]

Thank you Jeff!!! 🎉 Keep posting vids. There are 1000k likes on this video to the minor negative nellies who are just jealous of your good work.

[@GSB1231]

Thanks Jeff for another great video - the sheet metal for the curve is a great idea !

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers!

[@davidg8032]

The sheet metal was probably the worst part of the whole video. Too bad they don't sell it in three-foot wide rolls.

[@JamesAFrancis1966]

When I make a curve in my form. I use mdf 1x4. It bends and you can screed it with a 2x4 over the top and get the surface flat before you float the surface and cut the edge.

[@habah]

Hmm, why you are not using rebars/reinforcing mesh? Wont this crack?

[@scottmattern482]

Doesn't all concrete crack?

[@noodles8203]

@@scottmattern482 No.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

this is florida. no winter no reason to crack. Cheers!

[@derrickjones4916]

I know you said you're not a concrete guy. you should pass the float to kill the edger marks... love your channel. got a lot of things done around the home watching it.

[@F150-f7b]

Thanks for a great tutorial. I have no idea how to do this but you make it look easy.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Glad it was helpful!

[@AngelMedina-tx8dm]

You are awesome. I enjoy watching all your videos. You have a true follower. Keep up the the awesome work you do I've learned so much from you thank you and bless you.

[@mcclaren807]

Awesome vids as always. Going to make my little walkway from the porch to driveway a whole lot easier. Jeff is the go to guy for DIY'ers.

[@pencey]

Looks good, sounds great! I want to put concrete in the dumb strip between my sidewalk and street eventually, or maybe something else. But this was helpful in understanding how that could happen

[@gmanjordan4154]

The next homeowner will drive over the thin slab to deliver appliances to the front door! That will crack into pieces! Never underestimate the weight bearing of future activity. Go 3 1/2" minimum along any driveway. A long striking tool like a 2" x 4" x 8' will help level the surface all the way across. Otherwise, you are pulling and pushing around concrete too much. Increasing the chance for low spots creating puddles when it rains. FYI. I am 63, been there, done that.

[@Shezad-e2d]

Some people are talking about using rebar. Do you have to use rebar?

[@williamroozenboom3269]

Rhe flashing worked great. Ive used 1/4" masonite for curves. You can cut it to width & still use the top for screeding. Just another option.

[@TimfromAlabama]

An uncle of mine did slightly different than you with the expansion joint. As you cleaned up down to the bottom of the existing concrete he would take a thick brush and paint vasaline on the old surface. When he poured the new up to that it left a space for expansion naturally. After a while of sun and seasons the vasaline would disappear but that crisp joint that allowed expansion still worked flawlessly. Also, as he finished the surface like you did he'd lightly mist water over the surface to slow down the drying process to allow more time to work it. Then, once he had it as smooth as he liked and worked he'd take straight Portland in this device he made like a duster and lightly dust the wet surface of the concrete with the dry. I've seen sidewalks he did with a surface so smooth you'd swear it was fake. But that's all he did was concrete work...sidewalks, driveways, block foundations, etc. You can be as detailed as you want and take as much time as you want or you can do it quickly and efficiently and still get the look and finish you like such as you did. Concrete is a very forgiving material like sheetrock mud and just takes doing the best you can and taking pride in your finished work...something many people folks hire to work for them don't have anymore. Cheers from Alabama.

[@cl5619]

This slab didn’t need an expansion joint. It’s not constrained. It’s free to expand on the yard side. The reason you do need expansion joint on the driveway is because it’s pinched between the garage slab and the road.

[@davidg8032]

Great point! @@cl5619

[@theoriginaldustbunny863]

Was it like a flour sifter? @timfromAlabama

[@TimfromAlabama]

@@theoriginaldustbunny863 Sort of like that. He made it himself, probably out of a fine screen strainer or something.

[@MrJdd25]

Nice tutorial and nice background music. Thanks Jeff.

[@mikedeboer7635]

Jeff, just a thought. If you stand uphill on your mixer....I think it would work better to mix the 'crete' and when mixing pours. and a scarf(type) joint works really well with a tool/saw cut.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I agree, however when filming we always need the sun behind the camera guy so you can all see. Cheers!

[@henryp1920]

This is a great video in that it shows its not that hard to do just a simple little pour and once try it out for yourself you can then start to build off of that experience

[@acore3594]

Tap con for your expansion joint to keep it in place

[@davidb7699]

Good video,,,here’s a few tips,,1. Always do yr mixing on the grass and not the driveway,,that way there’s never a mess…2, you use that bender board for landscaping to make yr rounded curves,,it’s flexible yet Rigid and stays parallel to the ground so you get a nice clean straight edge and it’s cheap…3. Always buy more then you need,,,that way you don’t run out,,It’s easy to return because you’re pull the cart right up to the back of your truck and move it to foot then when you get in the store you just hand it to them you don’t have to go put it back so it’s not that hard to return, other than that you did good

[@cecilhunter8820]

Good job and effort. 34 years under my belt. Finisher for life

[@devinmahoney3777]

I get that this is not your expert grade job so I’m ignoring some of the shortcoming of this slab. It’ll do the job of a walkway fine enough I hope. I mainly want to point out a technique issue that costs you no time or effort and increases the material strength a lot. If you need to adjust the grade of your work it’s best to scoop the mud (use your trowel end like a shovel or have a mate nearby with a tool) so you are placing a homogenous mix of mud in the low area (not a segregation of sand and bleed water). Pushing the concrete around that much with a trowel, especially with as much bleed water as he had is making the surface considerably weaker in my opinion.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

great tip my man. Appreciate it. Cheers! Never stop learning!!!

[@laurahanshaw769]

Jeff, I Love how you take people’s suggestions like a champ. Lol most people get so butt hurt because they think they know everything and their way is the right way always. My attitude has always been to be open to never stop learning new things. Btw you are my go-to for everything I work on in my house. I needed to learn how to do something the other day and so I pulled up your KZbin and watched the video. Learned what I needed to know. Later I called my brother and asked him his opinion how how to do it and he said he wasn’t sure and without knowing I follow you he sent me a video of you . Hahah how funny is that. Can’t believe him and I watch the same person on KZbin out of all the people on here. Pretty cool. Thanks for all the details in the videos . Very helpful!

[@johnwiks2597]

Good move comin' down to Florida! Glad to hear your pickin up the twang too! Nice vid

[@steve_main]

So the expansion joint that I used was in a roll and has a removable strip on it so after you pour the concrete you remove the perforated strip from the top to leave like 2 CM gap that you can fill with an acoustic sealant!

[@AJDIYNetwork]

Jeff. Do you want to come to Binghamton NY to help with my slab?

[@antgrantrant]

​@@AJDIYNetwork was not expecting to read the name of the town I came from in a random comment reply. What's up, cousin.

[@AJDIYNetwork]

@@antgrantrant lol! Love when random stuff happens!

[@johnratliff4594]

I'm a little older DIY, and hand mixing is ok with 10 bags or less, but get over twenty bags and I'm using a mixer. The preferred mix is the mud mixer it's worth the $100 rental fee per day.

[@hardworker645]

For curved edges i would always use forms or a very thin plywood,,,,, God bless you all worldwide

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cool, thanks

[@wendellbradley5032]

Always, use a tarp under your pan. I like using the flexible flashing with spikes deep enough. With screws.

[@jasonexplains]

I wonder if a 1/4" x5" pvc trim would work for the border rather than aluminum? It would be less wavy but still pretty bendable.

[@montytanner966]

They make 1x4 pvc trim now that works perfectly for forms

[@c50ge]

Masonite workes well.

[@RoquetSynce]

Thank you so much for this video. You explain everything perfectly for a newbie like me. Greatly appreciated! Thank you!

[@maxinenall9950]

Great tips, especially using the flashing for the curve 😁 but here in Iowa we use a lot of rebar when pouring any concrete 🤦 You don't worry about it cracking in Florida?

[@matrixmann7954]

Yes we do with our loamy ass dirt we do not have any choice in the matter. Makes for great corn crops😂.

[@Pontiacdreams]

What’s the difference between a magnesium float and a wood float? Is the magnesium float for finishing? Your sense of humor adds enjoyment to your videos! THANK YOU!

[@chrisscullynz]

I love you Geoff but this is Horrible! Im an actual concreter and I thought this was a joke, like April fools but its not April. So many things wrong with this. Virtually every step stinks of amateur. 2 inches of concrete is not enough, 4 inches is the minimum. You poured it half inch lower than existing concrete!!! The biggest no no of all, A perfect toe catcher, that would get ripped up if it was on government land. That curve you tried to blend into driveway... will snap off in about six months, no steel, no dowels into existing, no edge thickening so rain will undermine it. You only need expansion when its between concrete not up against so thats ugly and unnecessary. Great channel honestly, but pouring concrete for the average homeowner is a terrible idea. Its harder and more expensive to pull it out than it is to put it in, cheers.

[@PirataEscondido]

It is not horrible. it is DIY. Do you see a pump truck and a bunch of finishers. No. If you are a professional watching this channel we don't need your opinion.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

maybe, but as a proc concreter you know damn well nobody is going to even take a call for a project this size. I don't do concrete, but I had to do it. now it is done. looks decent. which was my goal. and BTW i backed over the tip with the truck and guess what no crack. just saying.

[@eyeofventure]

I think it’s awesome that you’re trying new things and being that this is something new for you you will learn from experience and just experimenting. So keep up the good work and keep experimenting out there and try new things.

[@gerardmccarthy2432]

Nice job however, you should have used some 1' rebar pieces and drilled a few holes in the existing slab sides to prevent the new concrete slab from settling over time due to water run off which undercuts the dirt under the slab. Common problem in Florida with torrential rain and run off.

[@kenschumm9578]

Yes sir, I was hoping someone caught it!

[@lovely9181]

wow hi you came to florida and didn't come do all these projects i need completing? i love watching your videos so helpful and very detailed so a a diyer can understand! thanks for all the videos

[@luktish]

Hell of the fight that was! Jeff survived in the end 😅 Concrete is no joke 😂

[@jasonklisowsky]

That flashing form was 'genius' :)

[@hbseth1867]

Love watching you man but this looks like your first concrete pour lol

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

actually my third. LOL one of these days I will have the time to get it right. Cheers!

[@mikelkeith2115]

Hey Jeff, I used flexible cement board instead of that weak flashing ,and didn't remove it. stuccoes it. turned out, to smooth.

[@MBMCincy63]

6/10/23 I realize these video's are delayed by a few months, but I am hoping the Comment reading is current. I seriously hope that your properties in Ottawa are safe from the current wildfires burning all over Canada. As always a pleasure to watch and hear you teach. Glad you finally pulled out the knee pads! ( lol) Thanks Jeff, shivering black bell thumbs up

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers and so far so good for our properties!

[@hoffpauirconcrete.semperfidCC]

After watching this im convinced I should do this for a living.....oh wait ..... Good job my guy

[@jasonkollar4047]

Now you have to do a dry pored concrete video to be a trendy KZbinr! Seriously though , I’ed like to know the limitations and drawbacks to this method or if it is just a BS Internet trend. Thanks for the video!

[@ThePlockets]

I was looking for someone to make this comment ;)

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Coming soon!

[@DavidBarr9476]

So, I've seen a bunch of videos about dry pour concrete jobs, what are your thoughts on that? I know concrete is porous by nature so it would not shock me to hear it works, but at the same time people are smart and we've been doing concrete work for a very long time...a new technique for something so thoroughly practiced gives me pause.

[@ecarroll3723]

Forgot to mention a leveler.. Not sure about the aluminum flashing you used, just because of waviness between the stakes and leveling purpose.. I would have used the long thinner strip of wood that you can bend and stake plus base your level height (grade) off of with some string (must have a leveler to do this).. That way once you have the level (grade) height you desire from the top of the wood, you can screed the surface from one side to the other using the wood and the existing driveway as a guide to get it completely flat, then optional to bull float, edge it and follow up with troweling it. Just food for thought

[@PatrickKane-f3m]

Always put water in first,