DIY Builds
Photo by Rachel Claire Pexels Logo Photo: Rachel Claire

Does spraying water on concrete help it cure?

Properly curing your concrete improves strength, durability, water tightness, and resistance for many years. The first 7 days after installation you should spray the slab with water 5-10 times per day, or as often as possible. Once the concrete is poured the curing process begins immediately.

How can I keep the dust free in my garage?
How can I keep the dust free in my garage?

Tips for Controlling Dust in the Garage Begin With a Thorough Cleaning. Seal the Concrete Slab. Repair or Replace the Door Seals. Change the HVAC...

Read More »
Is Rhino for free?
Is Rhino for free?

Rhino is a great software not only for architecture but also for product design and 3D printing. This software is available for Windows and Mac,...

Read More »

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CURE MY NEW CONCRETE SLAB?

To get the strongest finish out of your new concrete slab for years to come we suggest taking the time to properly cure your new slab for at least 7 days after installation (28 days is ideal). Curing is the process of controlling the rate and extent of moisture loss from concrete during cement hydration. Curing plays an important role in strength development and durability of concrete. This is done by continuously wetting the exposed surface thereby preventing the loss of moisture from it. If water evaporates too quickly, it will weaken the finished product with stresses and cracking. To put it simply, the goal is to keep the concrete saturated during the first 28 days. The first 7 days after installation you should spray the slab with water 5-10 times per day, or as often as possible. Once the concrete is poured the curing process begins immediately. To protect your new slab and ensure an exceptional finished product you should wait 24 hours for foot traffic (including pets), 10 days to drive light vehicles or add furniture, and 28 days for heavy pick-up trucks and RVs. After 28 days the concrete is cured and you will have a strong and stable slab. After this point you can paint or stain your concrete if you’d like. Properly curing your concrete improves strength, durability, water tightness, and resistance for many years. To get the strongest finish out of your new concrete slab for years to come we suggest taking the time to properly cure your new slab for at least 7 days after installation (28 days is ideal). Curing is the process of controlling the rate and extent of moisture loss from concrete during cement hydration. Curing plays an important role in strength development and durability of concrete. This is done by continuously wetting the exposed surface thereby preventing the loss of moisture from it. If water evaporates too quickly, it will weaken the finished product with stresses and cracking. To put it simply, the goal is to keep the concrete saturated during the first 28 days.
Can you live in a garden summer house?
Can you live in a garden summer house?

Unfortunately, it's not possible to live or sleep in a summerhouse as it would not meet approval for building regulations or planning permission....

Read More »
Can cats keep snakes away?
Can cats keep snakes away?

Guinea hens, turkeys, pigs, and cats will also help keep snakes away. If foxes are indigenous to your area, fox urine is a very good natural...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

How do you anchor a wood shed base to the ground?

Bolting a cabled anchor to the outside of the shed. Using large Penetrator anchors under the ground frame for both support (replacing footings) and as a hold-down. Using smaller Penetrator anchors with L-brackets for securing sheds into asphalt and for temporary building installations.

There are five primary methods for securing sheds to the ground without concrete. Looping a cabled anchor around a ground frame. Looping a cabled anchor over an inside structural member. Bolting a cabled anchor to the outside of the shed. Using large Penetrator anchors under the ground frame for both support (replacing footings) and as a hold-down. Using smaller Penetrator anchors with L-brackets for securing sheds into asphalt and for temporary building installations. The specific method, and the number and placement of anchors, will depend upon shed size, soil conditions, and your preference. If a larger shed needs support as well as hold-down (requires footings), the large Penetrators can provide both functions with the same anchor. The largest (46") can replace poured concrete as an easier, faster, equally effective, and less expensive alternative. For the best holding strength, anchors should be installed at a minimum spacing equal to the depth of the anchor, in order to avoid each other’s “cone of soil” — the region of soil that contributes to an anchor’s holding strength. This applies to both cabled anchors and Penetrator (screw-type) anchors.

Drive rod and sledge or demolition hammer for cabled anchors.

Impact wrench or power take-off (PTO) for Penetrator anchors.

Depending on your preferred method, you’ll need the following tools for installation:

For complete instructions, download the Shed Anchor Installation PDF.

What are mice doing when you hear scratching?
What are mice doing when you hear scratching?

Scratching – This may indicate rodents are climbing, crawling or digging. Gnawing – Mice and rats are constantly chewing. Scurrying – You're likely...

Read More »
How much weight can a 4-inch slab hold?
How much weight can a 4-inch slab hold?

A 4-inch thick concrete can support upto 40 pounds of weight. Weight should not exceed 40 lbs/sq ft on an undetermined 4-inch slab. 80 lb/sq ft in...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Does adding a metal garage increase home value?
Does adding a metal garage increase home value?

Not only have homeowners utilized a steel building for residential purposes, but builders have also made additions to their existing property. No...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Is a wood or metal garage better?
Is a wood or metal garage better?

Quite simply, metal is a more durable material than wood. Metal can withstand high snow loads and extreme weather, plus it takes a lot more effort...

Read More »