CONCRETE PAD PROJECT PLANS Project Description: Pouring a concrete pad for a door approach is an easy weekend project. Best of all, you can do it yourself. Shopping List ¨ ¨ ¨ ¨ ¨ ¨ 2x4 boards for concrete form Wood stakes Instant Concrete Mix Nails Gravel Wire Mesh Tools Needed • Miter or Circular Saw • Hammer • Level • Wheel Barrow • Rake • Hoe • Broom • Square • Pencil • Shovel • Tape Measure • Chalk Line • Concrete Float • Hose Check out more projects at menards.com Page 1 Step 6: Lay a level across the forms and measure to be sure the entire pad will be 4 inches thick. Step 1: Cut 2x4 forms to size and nail them together. Step 2: Butt the forms up to the existing concrete and measure diagonally to be sure the forms are square. (The distance from corner to corner should be the same) Step 3: Drive stakes to secure the forms. Step 4: Using a level, set the front of the pad ½” lower than the back to provide slope. (This will help keep rain and ice off the pad.) Step 5: Prep the area where the concrete is to be laid with a layer of compacted gravel. Check out more projects at menards.com Step 7: Lay down reinforcing wire on top of the compacted gravel. Step 8: Mix concrete in the wheelbarrow with a hoe by adding water. (Mix until there are no lumps and the concrete has the consistency of oatmeal) Step 9: After the forms are completely full, tap them with a hammer to eliminate any air pockets. Step 10: Use a board in a back and forth motion to create a level surface. (Screeding) Step 11: Begin smoothing in an arcing motion with a concrete float. Step 12: After the concrete begins to firm, use an edger to give the pad rounded edges then drag a broom across the surface to create a non-slip surface. Page 2