How to build forms for a concrete slab.

Once you pour concrete, your slab will be impossible to change. If you build strong forms that are straight were they should be and curved correctly according to your plan, the final product will look professional. If you put up forms that are bulge, tilt or have loose-fitting joints, the finished product will not look like you have planed. Take your time when building forms. If the formed surface will be showing then take the time to inspect the boards you are using. Make sure they do not have knotholes, cracks or other defects that would show in poured concrete. Concrete forms must be sturdy, straight, and plumb.

1. Most concrete slabs are about 4" thick, smooth, straight 2x4s make great forming materials. The best size of stake to use is 1x2x12 these are not too long but are long enough to get the job done.

2. When anchoring the forms, drive a double-headed nail through the stakes and into the 2x4s. Place your foot against the opposite side of the forms to make nailing easier. Make sure the tops of the forms are level or above the top of the stakes.

3. When you are making a slab that is longer the 2x4s you are using it is ok to splice 2 boards together. When splicing 2x4s together use a two foot piece of 2x4 to bind the boards together. Make sure you put at least 4 nails in each side of the two foot piece of 2x4.This will make a nice ridged splice.

4. When staking your forms in make sure you put a stake every 2 to 3 feet apart. This will hold the firmly in place and support the boards from bowing out when the concrete is pour.

5. Use a level to make sure your forms come out level. Use a string line to make sure your forms are straight. If you run a string from one end of the board to the other it will show you if there are any bows that need to be taken out when you stake the forms.

6. If rounded corners is wanted then you will need to get some thin bendable material. Use this material to bend around the inside of the corners and nail in place with 6 -penny nails. Don't try to measure the length of the piece you will need. Take and nail one side of the board in place and make the bend you want. Then mark the board where you think it should be cut and then cut the board. Take the cut board and nail it back into place.

7. If you plan on pouring a big slab like 30'x30' then I would do it in several stages. Install a divider in the formed up area of how much you want to pour. Make sure it is braced off with stakes and then pour away.

Pouring concrete can be fun and fulfilling. Just follow these simple rules and you can pour concrete just like the big boys.