If you’re thinking of starting a new concrete project, you may have considered pouring it yourself. Taking on a DIY project like this is extremely risky and can result in tons of wasted money, time, and a failure of a project. Continue reading as we break down everything that can go wrong when trying to do this on your own.
Inadequate preparation
Simply clearing the ground of debris and plants with a shovel is not enough to prepare your site for concrete. The soil must also be thoroughly and evenly compacted and leveled, otherwise, the concrete on top will begin to crumble as the soil settles. This requires a plate compactor in order to level the surface and pack the soil, as well as build, install, and level borders.
Incorrect amount of water
When pouring concrete yourself, it’s easy to mix incorrect amounts of dry concrete and water. This ratio is critical to the durability and appearance of your concrete. Your wet concrete must be the perfect pliable and smooth consistency, rather than chunky or liquidy. It’s not uncommon for DIY-ers to add too much water to their mixture since more water makes it easier to work with, but even the smallest amount of extra water can really throw off the strength of your concrete.
Lack of safety precautions
Concrete contractors must follow specific OSHA regulations for a reason. When working with potentially hazardous materials and tools like concrete, you need to take the proper safety precautions, including wearing the following:
- Face mask
- Proper clothing (long sleeves and pants)
- Alkali-resistant gloves
- Eye protection (safety glasses)
- Rubber boots
- Ear protection when using heavy equipment (ear plugs)
Improper tools
Using the improper tools during a DIY concrete project can result in an uneven surface full of holes, cracks, and bumps. When working with concrete, you need strong, heavy-duty tools that won’t break while you work. You will also need to make sure that you have all of this equipment ahead of time, because pouring concrete is time-sensitive. Always be prepared.
Pouring concrete yourself is no simple task. With too much room for error, your best bet is to call a professional. With over 40 years of experience, you can trust the professionals at Port Aggregates, Inc. Contact us today to request a quote!
