Pour a 4x4 Concrete Pad
Category: Concrete ·
Difficulty: Intermediate ·
Time: 4.3h ·
Estimated cost: $95
Tools needed
- Shovel
- Wheelbarrow
- Garden hoe (mixing)
- Float
- Edger
- Level
- Tape measure
Materials needed
- Concrete mix (60 lb bag) (9 bag)
- 2x4 lumber for forms (16 lin ft)
- Rebar (#3, 10 ft) (2 ea)
- Gravel base (cu ft) (4 cu ft)
- Form release oil or motor oil (1 small)
Execution steps
Excavate
Dig out a 4'x4' area to 6" deep. Square corners with a tape measure (diagonals must be equal).
Duration: 1h
Build forms
Cut 2x4s to length, screw together into a square frame. Set in the hole, level, brace with stakes outside the form.
Duration: 30 min
Add gravel base
Spread 2" of gravel evenly inside form. Tamp down level.
Duration: 20 min
Place rebar grid
Cut rebar into 4 pieces ~3.5'. Lay in a grid raised on small stones so it sits in the middle of the slab.
Duration: 15 min
Mix and pour
Mix bags one at a time per package directions. Pour and rake to fill all corners. Vibrate sides of forms with a hammer to release air.
Duration: 1h 30m
Screed and float
Drag a straight 2x4 across the form to level the top. Float surface smooth with a magnesium or wood float.
Duration: 25 min
Edge and broom finish
Run an edger along the form perimeter for a clean rounded edge. Drag a broom across for slip resistance. Cover with plastic and let cure 48 hours before walking.
Duration: 20 min
Safety first
- Wet concrete is highly caustic — wear rubber boots, gloves, and eye protection.
- Do not pour in temperatures below 40°F or above 90°F without admixtures.
- Brace forms heavily; concrete weighs 150 lb/cu ft and will blow weak forms apart.
When to hire a pro
For pads larger than 8x8, anything weight-bearing (sheds, footings), or sloped sites — hire a concrete contractor.
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