How to Pour Concrete Over Utility Boxes

Thieves can break into utility boxes, such as those that power street lights, stealing the components inside. If you don't expect to open the box in the future, one easy way to protect it against thieves is by covering it in concrete. You can pour concrete over the box to create a nearly impervious shell, preventing the theft of the box's contents.

2-by-4-inch lumber
Hammer and nails
Concrete mix
Water
Trowel
Plastic sheeting

Instructions

- 1
  Build a wooden frame that is 2 inches wider in both directions and 1 inch taller than your utility box. This will be used to support the concrete casing as it hardens. Line up a row of 2-by-4-inch boards, and nail a perpendicular board to them at both ends to make one wall of the frame. Make three more such walls and nail them together at the corners in a box shape to complete the frame.
- 2
  Combine concrete mix and water until it reaches a workable consistency based on the manufacturer's instructions. Drier mixes tend to result in stronger concrete, so use as little water as possible.
- 3
  Set the wooden frame over the utility box. Pour concrete into the frame until it reaches the upper edge of the frame. Wait 30 minutes, and use a trowel to spread and smooth the upper surface of the concrete. Cover the upper surface with plastic sheeting to slow the drying process, resulting in stronger concrete. Wait a week for the concrete to fully set before removing the sheeting and frame.

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