How to Build a Cement Driveway

Remove all vegetation from where you plan to put your driveway. Then your task will be to put down what is referred to as sub-grade, or crushed rock. In most cases, your driveway should contain about 4 inches of sub-grade, and it should be evenly disbursed to avoid problems later. If you intend to have about 4 inches of concrete and 4 inches of sub-grade, you will first need to dig out 8 inches where your driveway will be located. Also, using a level, provide slope of about 1/4 inch per foot to your driveway to allow for proper drainage.

Use wood or steel forms to create 2-foot-square areas where your cement will be poured. They can be obtained from most rental companies that serve the construction industry. Also, each 80-lb. bag of cement will make about 3/4 of 1 square foot, if you have chosen a 4 inch depth. You should have sufficient cement to complete the job. Make sure that you make enough cement to fill each form to avoid shifting.

Use wire mesh to reinforce the cement. Order enough to cover the entire driveway. To be effective, the wire mesh should not rest on the sub-grade after the cement is poured. Place the mesh in each 2-foot-square form; and after you pour the cement, pull the wire mesh into the middle of the cement.

Finish each slab by using a bull float, a tool with a flat surface and handle that is made especially to even out cement. Be gentle as you do this to avoid sealing the cement, which will most likely cause blistering as it sets.