How to Lay a Concrete Basement Floor Part 2

The integrity of a concrete basement floor is imperative to the structural integrity of a home, and so the proper installation of the concrete floor is a step in the building process that must be done correctly. If the frame of a home rests on the concrete floor, the floor must be able to bear the weight of the structure, and the preparation of the ground beneath the floor is critical. Here you will find information on the process by which the concrete floor is installed. Ultimately, this should be done or overseen by a professional to achieve the performance needed from such a floor.

Step 1 - Cover Stone

First, the ground should be leveled and compacted as tightly as possible. A gravel bed should be laid over the ground and leveled to provide for drainage of any moisture. Sand is the next layer, and should also be leveled. The sand will provide additional material for a level surface, and will allow for a more even surface on which the concrete is poured. Over the sand is placed thick vinyl sheeting, to provide for a moisture barrier between the ground and the concrete.

Step 2 - Build Forms

Forms will need to be built to provide a contained space in which to pour the concrete. Without forms, concrete will spread out haphazardly. Generally, 2x4s are used, set on their sides, and staked in a square or rectangle to create the form. Plumb lines are used to make sure the forms are created so that they are level. Additional lumber is needed to help level off the concrete when it is poured.

Step 3 - Pour Concrete

Concrete is mixed in the amounts needed. Concrete comes dry, in bags, and is mixed with water to the right consistency. If it is a large quantity of concrete that is needed, a concrete mixing truck can be utilized to mix large batches of concrete. The concrete is poured into the form from a chute on the truck that can be directed to the area needed. It is then poured into the form, filling the form to the brim. Shovels are used to spread the concrete around the form.

Step 4- Level Concrete

The concrete is leveled by dragging another piece of lumber across the top of the form. The concrete is typically leveled even further by using hand towels to ensure a flat, even surface.

Step 5 - Install Foam Board

Foam board or insulation board is installed once the concrete is completely dry and set. The curing process of concrete will vary in the time it takes, depending on how thick the slab is, and how large of an area it covers. The foam board is secured directly to the concrete slab and to surrounding walls (toward the bottom at least) with special concrete fasteners or screws.