How to Pour a Concrete Garage Floor

Learn how to properly pour a concrete garage floor with expert tips from Matt and Nate at Royal Pools and G2 Outdoor Design. This detailed guide covers everything from initial preparation, including digging footings and setting grade stakes, to the final steps of pouring and troweling the concrete. Ideal for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals, this tutorial ensures your garage floor is built to last, preventing issues like sinking and water pooling. Subscribe to our channel for more expert construction tips and tutorials.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Preparation: Start by digging footings and installing helic coils to prevent the garage from sinking over time. Ensure the area is graded to the correct depth and lay a vapor barrier to protect against future sweating.
  2. Setting Up: Use slab bolsters and rebar to reinforce the floor, and establish heights for drains with grade pins and chalk lines. Set the forms to the correct height.
  3. Pouring Concrete: Begin pouring concrete from the furthest point, working your way out. Use wet screeds for leveling, then rake and bull float the surface to make it smooth.
  4. Drain and Door Considerations: Properly pitch the floor towards the drains to avoid water pooling and ensure the garage door area is level for a perfect fit.
  5. Final Troweling: Use kneeboards or sliders to trowel the concrete, typically needing two to three passes depending on the setting time. This step ensures a smooth, durable finish.