Step 1: Plan & Measure

1.1 Determine the Size and Location

• • Determine the Size and Shape: Determine the exact dimensions and shape of the concrete base. Whether it’s a square, rectangle or more complex shape, knowing the precise measurements is essential.
  • Mark The Corners: Use wooden or metal stakes to mark the corners of the base area. This will serve as a guide for placing your form boards.

Tip: Ensure the area is level and clear of any roots, debris, or large rocks. This will prevent any unevenness in your base.

Step 2: Excavation

2.1 Excavate the Area

Dig out the marked area to a depth of at least 6-8 inches. The depth can vary depending on the load the base will bear.

Remove all soil and debris from the area.

2.2 Add Layer of Aggregates

Fill the excavated area with a 3-4 inch layer of Type 1 from Lightwater Quarries.If extra drainage is required use 20mm of Washed Limestone under the Type 1 aggregate.

Compact the Type 1 and 10/20mm Washed Limestone using a tamper or plate compactor. A well-compacted base is crucial for the longevity of your concrete base.

Tip: For more information on the excavation depths, please read our How to Decide the Depth of Aggregates & Concrete for a Base: A Comprehensive Guide.

Step 3: Setting Up Formwork

3.1 Construct the Formwork

Use wooden planks to create a frame around the excavated area. The height of the formwork should match the desired thickness of concrete base.

Secure the formwork with wooden stakes placed ever 2-3 feet around the perimeter. Ensure that the formwork is level by using a spirit level.

3.2 Reinforcement

Place rebar or steel mesh within the formwork, ensuring it’s elevated slightly off the ground. This reinforcement will provide additional strength to your concrete base.

Tip: Concrete4U can provide advice and expert guidance on the appropriate concrete mix and reinforcement for your specific project.

Step 4: The Concrete

4.1 Ordering the Concrete

Call or email Concrete4U (01765 635 435 or sales@concrete4u.co.uk)to book your required slot, normally 2/3 days in advance or longer for weekends.

Depending on what your concrete base is for will depend on what type of concrete you require. We can advise you directly or you can use our Selecting The Right Concrete guide.

4.2 Pour the Concrete

Pour the concrete into the formwork evenly, ensuring it fills all corners.

Use a shovel or a rake to spread the concrete and eliminate any air pockets.

4.3 Leveling & Smoothing

Use a straight edge, such as a wooden plank (tamping board) to level the surface of the concrete. Move it back and forth (cutting action) across the formwork to smooth the surface.

Use the tamping board across the top of the form work from one side to the other in small up and down movements to remove all the air from the concrete.

Repeat the above process until the desired level is achieved.

Follow up with a float to finish the surface to your desired texture.

Step 5: Curing the Concrete

5.1 Allow the Concrete to Set

Let the concrete base cure for at least 24-48 hours. Avoid stepping on it during this period.

5.2 Moisture Control

In times of hot weather, shading from the sun and/or damping with mist of water will help avoid surface cracking. In times of colder weather, frost protection covering for the whole base may be needed. If below -3 degrees, it’s advisable not to pour the concrete.

Use a shovel or a rake to spread the concrete and eliminate any air pockets.

5.3 Removing the Formwork

After about a week, carefully remove the formwork. The concrete should be sufficiently set by this time.

Tip: For best results, allow the concrete to cure fully (usually 28 days) before placing any heavy objects on it.

Why Choose Concrete4U & Lightwater Quarries?

• Concrete4U provides a wide range of ready-mix and volumetric concrete solutions tailored to your specific needs, ensuring the best quality for your project.
• Lightwater Quarries offers quality aggregates that are essential for creating a strong and stable base, available in various sizes and types.

Start your project with confidence. Visit Concrete4U and Lightwater Quarries today to get the best materials for your concrete base!

We deliver our concrete to the following towns and their surrounding areas including Bedale, Boroughbridge, Bramhope, Catterick, Chapel Allerton, Darlington, Harewood, Harrogate, Helmsley, Knaresborough, Leeds, Leeming, Leyburn, Malton, Masham, Northallerton, Otley, Pateley Bridge, Pickering, Richmond, Ripon, Scarborough, Stokesley, Tadcaster, Thirsk, Wetherby and York.