The boards should be pre-drilled with 1/2 inch holes and fastened so that the outside edge of each concrete support is 12 inches from the end of the finished bench. It is recommended that 7 ft 2x4 inch boards be used for strength and durability. This should only be attempted after at least 3 days of drying time. If you don't have a brick, you can purchase a rub brick from your local hardware store. You can achieve a smoother appearance by using the brick to gently rub the surface and round off the inside edges. You can perfect the surface of the dried concrete using an ordinary masonry brick. Otherwise crumbling and cracking may occur. It is recommended that you allow maximum drying time prior to assembling and using the benches. The concrete will reach ¾ of its maximum strength in 7-10 days and maximum strength in 28 days. ½ inch rebar works well.Ĭoncrete can be removed from the mold after 36-48 hours, depending on local drying conditions. Reinforcing rods may be placed in the poured concrete in critical areas, such as the bench back and support area. Lightly trowel the open end to gain a smoother surface. Once full, sparingly repeat the tapping process to remove additional air bubbles. Do not over-tap as this will change the uniform consistency of the concrete mix. This will help the concrete set evenly and release air bubbles. At various intervals of pouring the concrete, stop and gently tap around the circumference of the mold with a rubber mallet (or a hammer and wooden block). Add rebar when mold is half full (see below). Lay the mold on a level surface to ensure the concrete spreads evenly. For tips, please click on this article or watch this video. (3 x 80lb bags per bench.) Mixing concrete at home is easy. Approximately 120lb of dry mix is needed for each side. Any concrete mix available at your local hardware store with 3/8 inch aggregate is sufficient. Any generic screw meeting that criteria will do. For a more finished look, we have had success using stainless steel Socket Flat Head Screws product #4509 offered by Bolt Depot. Screws to assemble the benches should be 3/8-16, 2 1/2” assuming 2 X 4 slats are chosen. We have had success with Nova Precast Anchor Inserts. Any bolt 3/8-16 can be used to temporarily attach the anchors to the molds during the pouring process. Store on a flat surface when not in use.Ī precast concrete anchor should be attached to the bench molds in each of the pre-drilled holes (14 per bench) prior to pouring the concrete. Silicone spray, WD40 and common cooking spray work well as lubricants. The mold should be cleaned and lubricated before and after each use. Please see our slideshow for details and further guidance. Assembly and construction techniques can vary with your own specific applications and experiences.
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