Can you pour a slab on uneven ground?

Concrete slabs have a variety of uses, including home foundations, walkways, and patios. If you pour your concrete on uneven ground, the slab may look crooked or get damaged as it dries.

How do you lay a concrete slab on uneven ground?

Mark off the area as usual and then dig it out to the required depth. The depth depends on what type of concrete you’re using and whether it needs a gravel base. You’ll need to dig out more on the higher side to make it level with the lower side. Smooth out the ground and then check the level in all directions.

Do I have to level ground before pouring concrete?

Whether you want to add or extend a porch to your backyard, build a new shed or lay a new driveway, you must always prepare the ground before pouring concrete. If you pour concrete on ground that isn’t level, the concrete will most likely crack, break apart or sink.

How do you prepare land for a concrete slab?

  1. Dig the ground down to the proper depth.
  2. Smooth out the ground with the flat side of a rake so that you have a level surface.
  3. Tamp the ground with a hand tamper or mechanical tamper.
  4. Pour 2 inches of small, rounded gravel for additional drainage needs.

Do you need gravel under concrete pad?

You do need gravel under a concrete slab, footing, or patio. Gravel provides a solid foundation for your concrete as it can be compacted. It also improves drainage, preventing water from pooling beneath the concrete.

How much gravel is needed under a concrete slab?

You will need 3 inches of gravel under a concrete slab that is 4 inches thick. More gravel is better, but 3 inches is the minimum amount of gravel you should have with a 4” slab. Use ¾” washed and screened gravel, then compact it to level.

How many inches of gravel do you need for a concrete slab?

What happens if you don’t put gravel under concrete?

Because concrete is a very porous material, it will absorb any moisture that it contacts. This can cause pooling. Without crushed stone, pooling water will settle under it and erode your slab. Adding a layer of crushed stone will add proper drainage, as well as create a barrier between your slab and the ground.