I am getting ready to pour a 14’x14′ patio in my backyard. I want to use concrete because it’s the cheapest option, but I’ve never done any type of finished work before. I plan on dividing the patio up in to approx. 3.5’x3.5′ squares using pressure treated 2×6’s. The forms, which will be permanent, will allow me to do small sections at a time, which I feel pretty comfortable with. My main question is what can I do to keep the forms in good shape over the long haul? Am I going to have any other problems associated with doing it this way? Also, has anyone ever used alternative materials for the forms, such as a composite decking material to avoid rot or discoloration?
Thanks for the help.
Craig Zimmerman
Replies
Doing concrete is sort of like learning drywall finishing......................begin in a closet where no one really will see the learning curve errors.
A nice patio is no place to begin........................pay a professional and watch how effortlessly he appears to handle the pour in a single slab with grooved 3.5x3.5 sections without interior formboards.
Concrete is unforgiving................it sets at its own schedule.....not the installers! It's heavy and as you fight to pour and finish its #### out all of your strength and stamina. It empties your wallet for the purchase of "concrete" tools. And if you screw up you can't sand it or thin coat it to cover problems............it requires a jack hammer.
Try your first experience with concrete on a dog pen, or a storage shed pad and you'll come to appreciate those who are able to do this for a living.
IMHO...........................Iron Helix