Do you need gravel under concrete?

Do you need gravel under concrete?

Do you need gravel under concrete?

Whether you pour concrete for a walkway or patio, a strong gravel base is required to prevent the concrete from cracking and shifting. Gravel is especially important in clay soil because it doesn't drain well, which results in water pooling under the concrete slab and slowly eroding the soil as it finally drains.

Can you pour a concrete slab on top of the ground?

Home owners can accomplish the task themselves by pouring the concrete directly on the ground in the installation area. However, the ground must be properly prepared by removing vegetation. In addition, you must construct sturdy barriers to hold the wet concrete in place until it dries.

Will concrete cure under dirt?

Assuming that the concrete was mixed in the proper ratio and poured in an acceptable temperature environment, soil backfilling will not harm the curing concrete (assuming no mechanical stresses or insults were done to the curing concrete; that is, no fractures, scours, washouts or chemical exposure).

Do you have to remove grass before pouring concrete?

Conclusion. Although certain projects allow a little wiggle room by leaving grass underneath your concrete, it is best to remove all grass and loose debris before pouring. This will ensure you have an even, smooth, crack-free look for many years without needing to deal with any expensive or time-consuming maintenance.

Should you put plastic under concrete?

A concrete vapor barrier is any material that prevents moisture from entering a concrete slab. Vapor barriers are used because while fresh concrete is poured wet, it's not supposed to stay that way. It needs to dry and then stay dry to avoid flooring problems. ... This is why a vapor barrier under concrete is essential.

What kind of gravel goes under concrete?

Most concrete contractors want a mix of coarse and fine aggregate to create a compactable base that is going to be safe for settlement and drainage. Crusher run (a mix of crushed stone and stone dust) is one of the best base materials for concrete flatwork.

Can I use pea gravel under concrete?

While pea gravel can be used as a mulch alternative, garden border and other landscaping purposes, it is not the best choice for a patio base. ... It should be ok to pour concrete over your gravel walk although you might want to give the concrete a little more depth along the sides.

Do you need rebar for 4 inch slab?

No, you do not need rebar for a 4-inch slab of concrete on grade. A 4-inch-thick slab cast on the ground and in permanent contact with it will float and rebar is not required. Rebar is recommended on concrete measuring 5 – 6 inches thick.

How long does 4 inches of concrete take to cure?

Concrete typically takes 24 to 48 hours to dry enough for you to walk or drive on it. However, concrete drying is a continuous and fluid event, and usually reaches its full effective strength after about 28 days.

How do you prepare concrete for dirt?

2:176:18Pouring a concrete slab: Prepare the Ground & Drainage - YouTubeYouTube

Should I water the concrete after I pour it?

After new concrete is poured and finished the concrete begins its curing process. By keeping the surface wet, you are keeping the concrete temperature low. Be sure to start watering the concrete in the morning and keep watering throughout the hottest part of the day.

How deep should I pour concrete?

A concrete driveway should be a minimum of 6 inches deep. To determine the amount of concrete needed, you must determine the square footage of the area to be poured. One yard of concrete will cover 54 square feet of surface at a depth of 6 inches.

Can You pour concrete over existing concrete?

The key to successfully pouring concrete over an existing concrete surface is to ensure the two layers bond properly. Even though concrete is strong and forms a hard structure, there's nothing in it that helps it stick to old concrete. A commercial bonding agent helps with that.

Can concrete be made without gravel?

No, you cannot make concrete without gravel. The ingredient mix of 1 part cement, 2 parts sand, and 3 parts gravel (stone) is what makes up concrete. Without gravel, concrete would not be strong or be able to be used as a foundation or base that could withstand heavy loads.

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