I watch a lot of concrete videos. A LOT. This is hands down, *the best*, and most thorough, how-to video I have ever seen on concrete. Without question. And I'm only 25 minutes into it. I'm not exaggerating. This really is fantastic. The hard work that you put into this video did not go unnoticed.
You could argue that I have watched too many concrete videos... and I couldn't help but think the same thing. If there's one video for a concrete noob to watch, it's this one. You nailed it Mike.
@@MikeHeath And it's so much more. It even addressed the business side which answered some questions that I had. Also the "old school method". I heard people talking about the old school way of doing things but they don't get into their mixes. I learned new things. Quite a few new things.
It's interesting that you say that this video is the best. It's only my second video. I'm really considering a dry pour to make my cement pad bigger. It's about 20'x15' nice size but I want a little more hangout space beside hottub.
@doityourselfdiva6001 I can't tell anybody what to do I just do my hands on videos and show the results of my experience and give a honest opinion as I can, thanks Mike
I am but a 68 year old female tackling a stoning job for the first time. I keep hearing your voice in my head saying: "See? No big deal. " You have taught me so much and I am grateful to you for taking the time to share your expertise in these videos. A master of masonry. Bless you.
Mike Haduck--the Bob Ross of concrete. Among my favorite quotes is "They try to make a big deal out of it like you're not smart enough to do concrete, well you are smart enough to do concrete and you're smart enough to do it the right way." I loved the demystifying teaching style: seeing limestone broken into powder with a hammer; old-school mixing of basic materials; explaining that a float is just a piece of wood--plus a handle; showing how free he was to make designs and erase them; the railroad track base; working from small to large... Well done Mike Haduck, thanks for passing "all this stuff on"
"No big deal." I love this as a motto for doing concrete. Although I have to say Mike, your videos are a big deal to me. As someone just starting out, the wisdom you're passing down through these videos means a lot. I know these long videos are probably a lot to produce, so thank you!
The most informative concrete how-to videos I've ever watched. I love it when people explain the reasoning behind their methods. Thank you for passing along some of your wisdom.
Hey Mike, 80 year old retired NY construction worker here. Without a doubt this is the best explanation of concrete and some of it's uses. In my early 20's as a laborer on construction my 1st experience with concrete was on the Lake Ontario intake tunnel on 9 mile one in Oswego, NY, The second big one was for the 1st stack at the Oswego, NY Steam Station (Niagara Mohawk) It is 735' tall. Took one month to pour with what is called a slip form.
I wonder if we still have the knowledge and skilled tradesman to do those any more ? ! I marvel at the old towering stacks. And then there's the ones made of brick ! WOW ! :-0
Thank you for doing this. The fact that you want to pass down what you've learned so it's not forgotten, and educate us on topics like where Portland comes from, is very much appreciated!
I'm from Pennsylvania too, and I currently live in SC. Your videos and old school way remind me of my father, who poured new concrete steps and sidewalks for the residents of West Conshohocken and Conshy. My brothers had their own way of mixing and butted heads with Dad too often. So Dad got his daughters to work with him instead. We got it done. Thank you for sharing and making these wonderful videos Mike.
My grandfather was a cement mason…I have his 40 year and 50 year mason and plaster union gold cards…he did big jobs all over the States and Canada…he worked on the tunnel on I-10 in Mobile, Alabama…I’m glad someone is here to teach the younger generation…”no big deal”. Thank you, Mike.
The quintessential concrete master class. Thank you, Mike for sharing your knowledge and experience with concrete. Your channel is one of the best for beginners and professionals alike. Good health going forward to you, Mike and your family…….Phil
Just built my first form and did my first pour ever. I leveled it by shaking a board across it just like you did, but then called it done. Because that’s all I knew. Here, three hours later, I find this video and learn that DIY concrete can be finished better, not only that, It’s probably still wet enough to do it this time! So I pause to go back and finish it proper (with a smoother board). Gonna turn out great, thanks Mike!
@jordantbaker It's actually best to do the last finishing a couple hours after it's set up more than in this video. You get it close like in the video and then wait until it's set up enough where you can trowel it perfectly smooth without getting ridges and go over it with a finishing trowel and then it can be broomed evenly with a lighter texture, which is still antislip, but looks much better and professional. Finally a once over on the edging for a perfectly even and smooth texture, for a perfect job that will last. I've never done a "dry Pour" and I never would waste my time on that backwards nonsense, but I watch a lot of videos and it certainly looks to be much more time and effort for sh!t results. It's not rocket science to pour concrete the right way. You just need to know a few key points and follow them.
Will remember this for any future DIY concrete projects. Last summer I repaired and resurfaced our cement block patio steps using your techniques. It saved us a considerable amount of money. Thanks Mike!!!
We have learned so much from watching your tutorials. We live in Missouri and it gets fairly cold in the winter. The concrete that was poured prior to us owning was done unprofessionally. We have resurfaced some and completely replaced other sections following your old school methods. I’m proud to say they are all holding up and look amazing. We never thought we could do concrete work. We followed your videos and like you always say, it’s no big deal. Thank you for sharing your knowledge it has helped us numerous times.
Mike, thank you for such an incredible well thought out video. Very well made. Been watching you for a few years now. Never disappointed. God bless you
This dudes helped me out so much passing his knowledge along. Living in an old busted up coalminer house in the Northeast I'm getting it fixed up little by little. Thankyou!
Thanks Mike, great job. I don't like dry pour either, I used a dry pour to repair an old barn foundation, I was to lazy to fetch water that day. I went back a few days later and poured water in it, well after a year or so it crumbled apart. Learned my lesson.
I did 20 years as a combat engineer and made concrete all over the world. Man I could tell you stories about Afghanistan and some other areas, but in the end your advice is great 2 yards or 200 yards. One job we did 1200 CY a night because the days were too hot. And the mix with plasticizer burned anyone who touched it. I love your videos they are top notch. Keep it up because concrete "is no big deal" and you help thousands if not millions do it themselves.
Outstanding video! I appreciate you passing on your knowledge. Not sure how long I will be able to do it. I am turning 70 years old in January 2024 also. My mind says I can do it, but my body says another. 😂 Mike you make this stuff so easy. That is a sign of an excellent teacher! Thank you again.
Thanks Robert, I hear you, it's the heavy stuff that worries me, so I find my self just tinkering a few hours with the smaller stuff here and there as I go, thanks Mike
Mike - I've watched your Videos for 10 Years ... Because of your Generous Sharing of your Master Skills - I've been able to: Repair 2 Porches, Seal a Water Cistern, Repair 3 sets of STEPS, and Repair and Tile Over the Floors of an 1,800 SqFt House, and I'm STILL Learning ... may GOD bless you and yours.
Epic video Mike. Those dry pour people are the ones who want to call an ambulance when a clear liquid appears on their foreheads after a little exertion. And you look younger because of hard work, faith and some good music.
Hi Mike, I'm from Slovenia EU and I've been following your channel for about 5-7 years.. I'm 32 years old and even though I'm a technical guy, I learned some tips that came in handy when doing a complete house renovation by myself. Family houses in Slovenia are typically made of concrete and brick..Because of your channel, I also pay more attention to the way our castles and churches are built, some of them are more than 1000 years old and have been demolished and rebuilt several times..I like to follow the construction method and the differences between the EU and the USA.. You have the most fancy wheels on a wheelbarrow I've ever seen😄 My ancestors worked in Wyoming mines around 1910 and came back.. Welcome to Slovenia on a tour of our nature, many castles, lakes and natural caves. Thanks for your videos, enjoy your retirement in Florida..
@@MikeHaduck You probably never heard of our mini country and had to open google earth haha.. You must be surprised from which parts of the world we follow your channel. Some leave behind children, others leave behind videos which will teach future generations for decades to come..Thank you again.
Love watching your videos. As a county dirt tester, crushed was always better for backfill and asphalt pavement. But for concrete, round aggregate has the advantage of more slump at the same strength (w/c).
Moved to AZ and am no longer allowed to do concrete stuff because new house and wife says no. But I'll still watch all you have to share. Thanks so much for your effort good sir.
So glad I found you Chanel Mike. Also thank you so much for your desire to want to pass along this knowledge that you have in masonry. I've recently been working on an inground concrete duck pond in our back yard. I'm still preparing my surfaces and ground for the pour in between the rain here in southern VA. Not a whole lot different than your situation there in PA. I'm planning on mixing my own concrete myself given I'm very close to a river and have an excellent source of river sand thats not contaminated really at all, very clean sand and not super fine like beach sand. From what I understand you use more aggregate ( sand/stone) than you do portland. So having a free supply of sand just seemed like the way to go. I've been experimenting with the Portland to sand ratio to get the most durable mix and have settled on 3 sand to 1.5 portland. I would really appreciate any feedback you could give me if we could get in contact and discuss it further that would be awsome and very much appreciated. I just want to get this right and not have to be so concerned with fixing or patching in the future. Just for reference the pond is dug to about 5.5 ft deep with a ledge at half that depth on the entire front, with an overall length of 16ft and a width of 6ft.. I really look forward to hearing back from you if you have the time. But I also understand if I don't hear back from you at all 😅 😆
Hi Stephen, pools are a bit different, I worked on concrete pools where they came in and blew a lightweight concrete in between the rebar and formed it with trowels as they went and pools where they mixed Portland and sand 5 sand to one potland ( if I remember correctly) tamped it with a trowel and laid a liner inside. It's a different world doing pools so it's hard for me to comment, thanks mike
My dry pour sidewalks and porch are great! About to do another for a shed. If you do it right it is fine. I wouldn't do a dry pour driveway, but for pedestrian traffic or light duty home/farm use, it is great.
Hi James, the directions on the bag are clear, "add water and mix thoroughly " my opinion is dry pours are substandard, chezzy, unprofessional, amateur, and misleading, if the manufacturer changes the directions let me know, thanks Mike
Doing a dry pour and saying it came out great is like washing a car with a sponge or in those automatic car wash. It will come out looking good and clean but in time you will see that your car is full with scratches and web markings and have to take it to a professional detailer to then do a paint correction that will cost you maybe $300. Don't think that because something looks "nice" or ok it means it is good.
I totally agree Mike. Dry pouring concrete appears to me to be utter nonsense- It takes longer and the results are inferior. A lot of people nowadays try to come up with ways to "hack" the established methods, sometimes successfully, but definitely not in this case. Thanks for all the great content!
Thank you Mike! I'm 62 years old. 40 years ago Dad and a couple buddies poured our garage floor while I was at college. Creek gravel and Portland. Skreed it off and call it done. I've always felt guilty about it so recently I poured a 10' x 12' pad myself. Hand mixed in my tractor bucket. 12 bags of Portland and I tried to follow your formula. Roughly 45 mins per bag of portland. Yup 9 hours by myself. I was sure tired. I had to do a 2nd pour adjacent so I put a motor on Dad's old mixer (the one he used 40 years ago). I hired an Amish kid to mix it while I ran the wheel barrow. 10 bags of Portland and less than 4 hours later it was done. Thanks for good advice. Note: It would probably be cheaper from a redi-mix truck but the plant I was using shut down for the winter and access was difficult. Anyone that disagrees with your methods gets a kick in the butt! Those old timers had a lifetime of learning. Respect them!
This is the biggest click bait I have ever seen 😅. Wet mixing it yes of course has a nicer finish, but why do it dry pour? Because you did a tiny ass pad for a grill, not a big pad for a shed etc. Again literally no one said a professional company should be doing this etc. It's came along for the average home owner who can afford to pay $3000 for a 12x12 slab. If you want the videos there are people who drive trucks on it etc. So I just dont understand why you claim is won't last? If you put a gravel base, put reinforcement, what about it makes it so it will only last a couple years etc?!?! Aside from you saying so what's the proof in that claim? All that aside wanted to mention a couple of things, 1 would have NEVER guessed you are almost 70 (that's not sarcasm for the record). 2 did actually learn a good bit from this video still so thanks for making it click bait I would click on 😅. 3 I really do wonder what a time lapse would be of mixing cement finishing it etc. Vs dry pouring and then taking 5 minutes to water it. Dry pour I feel is going to be a good bit of time less. There are lots of videos again with decent finished etc. Honestly when you initially dry poured and then cut to it being in there and filled it was perfectly smooth. I wonder how the finish would have been if you left that and then went back with a red brick and "sanded" the edges the next day instead of using the tool. I respect your opinion I do, I still however just don't completely agree with it. I think dry pour without a doubt has its place especially for the average home owner. If they are doing a small 2x4 pad I can see where it would make more sense to mix it and wet pour it. But if it's a idk 12x14 pad I think the reality of a homeowner not feeling comfortable doing all that and knowing the times to finish etc .vs the simplicity of dry pour should be much more understandable. Just my opinion on yours
Hi Chris, I got lots of other videos on yes or no, not click bait just what's right and what is wrong, I know bad concrete a mile away because I ripped out enough over the years, and my opinion is dry pours are as bad as you can get,,,,my opinion, all these diyers have no experience and is making this stuff up as they go, and gullible people are buying it it, I got al lot of other videos where I did big pads all by hand and when I was a kid we did whole garages and basements with barrel mixers. But by the time you do all that you save a lot of time with the concrete truck, time is money, so no one does it anymore, dry pours will fall apart in the winter in my area and I haven't see a good finish on one yet, so I am trying to wake people up to the facts, thanks Mike
@@MikeHaduck again what facts do you have that it will fall apart over winter? If there is the base etc. As you explain in this video what will make it break apart?
@@MikeHaduck yes? What does that have to do with anything? There is no proof in there that it would break apart over winter. 1 it hadn't cured completely and 2 last I checked winter doesn't hit stuff with a hammer lol. Again if the base and other steps are done correctly what would just make cured concrete break apart? This video you explain why gravel is important in the freeze zone, so what exactly would make dry pour all the sudden break apart? I rewatched the video and I mean again it wasn't even cured all the way and it's not like it was just breaking apart like a sand castle. Again there are videos of people driving big trucks on it etc. So what makes it so weak it would break apart is what I am asking
Hi Chris, driving trucks over it don't mean anything, you can drive a truck over dried mud, ask any army veteran, the directions on sacrete says mix thoroughly and leave no dry pockets, if you can't follow directions I can't help you, your fight is with the manufacturer, I have to guarantee my work and I can't promote a substandard, chezzy or unprofessional way of doing things, why would I want to do things half ass when i could do it better?, I tore out a lot of bad concrete and I have enough experience to know better, no use commenting to me anymore, your fight is with the experts who have been testing their products for years, go to the manufacturer and tell them they are wrong, thanks Mike
Well, I have to admit, after seeing this video, you have convinced me to do the concrete job I'm going to do in a correct manner. I was all ready to do the dry pour, just a 3' x 6' walkway with light foot traffic, as I'm very unsure of my ability to do the smoothing out process across the top. But I feel more confident to tackle it now. Thanks for an awesome video. I really learned a lot.
@@MikeHaduck Looks like a lot of places. Shed floor, porches, small sidewalks, patios, ect, ect. Some people only have the money to buy bags of concrete, I'm sure you know some poor folks. Mixing up 50 bags of mud and finishing them in the hot sun is just out of the question for a lot of people, you know that.
@@99cachorro I have to agree.....a petit woman without much strength can do so much by herself beyond dumping bags of concrete (with difficulty). I know things should be done right as the way Mike does concrete, just like I don't compromise when it comes to cooking & baking. But physical & budget limitations make it impossible to do "what's right". Unfortunate reality. At least where I live doesn't freeze. So an unprofessional looking pad outside the back door is still better than none at all. Really love watching his videos though....
@@hisremnantsorry but if this petite woman you speak of can man handle the huge heavy bags of concrete then she can do all the rest of it quite easily. No Big Deal.. I understand that she may not care enough to bother, and that’s fine. But the result is far inferior.
Mike - I appreciate your time and effort to pass your knowledge on. It has helped me many times to tackle jobs I otherwise was intimidated by. Thank You - Lucas
I love that you think about water! Some contractors simply do the work (of any kind) with no consideration for where water comes from, where it flows, etc. They'll say the HO asked them to pour a patio slab, not do drainage work. I've seen patios up against the house, & sloped toward the structure with no way to get out.
Instead of doing my own research, I’d rather trust your decades of actual experience and all the research you have done. Great video. Extremely helpful.
Very thorough videos! You even went to China! And the other cool informative field trips! I watched Part 1 & 2. You must have said, "Concrete is no big deal" 20 times! I'm getting my brain ready to replace a mailbox post for a neighbor. Probably the easiest job ever, but in my 65 years of being a decent all-around handyman, roofer, siding, plumbing, electric, etc, I've never worked with concrete! Whenever the rain stops this week in Maryland, I'll tackle that job! Thanks for all your instructions, and vote of confidence!
Thanks Mike u rock!! I'm all for finding a better way of doing things, but it amazes me the number of amateurs that put out a youtube instructional video showing a ship-shod , half-azzed way of doing something. So refreshing to see an actual expert sharing their knowledge. From someone who believes that if its worth doing, it's worth doing right; Thanks again for all your efforts, much appreciated!
What a video! You took the time and trouble to explain everything re concrete and the reasons why this and that, very thorough. Subbed and best wishes from the U.K.
Thanks so much Mike, very helpful. I have a 10 x 10 patio that I removed 50 year old crumbling bricks from, and I have been considering what to do with this open area. I have steered away from the paver option, due to weeds and the need to use my snowblower over it in the winter. I have also considered the 'dry pour' method and the regular concrete 'wet pour' method. you have helped me decide to do it right w/ the wet pour method. thanks so much! Also, I love you scriptures!
Thank you for making these videos. I was getting ready to dry pour a 12x20 and now I think I'm going to do it in sections the way the old timers did it.
Brother... Mike... This is a great video. If anyone is stuck on what to do about concreate after this, they need to STOP put their tools down and pickup a phone and call a mason, because you went from A-Z to help everyone pour concrete and do it correctly. You my friend are the MASTER MASON.... You are the educator.... Everyone needs to watch ALL of your videos, even the Banjo Video :) God Bless Brother... Ernie
Hi Ernie, You are too kind, starting to play out again in Florida. Putting on my Facebook page where I will be, but still making videos on masonry, happy 4th, Mike
What a great video!! Thank you for the wisdom and no pretense. I learned a lot and enjoyed doing so. My favorite line …” NO BIG DEAL”. Thank you so much! One more thing… I love “old school “
Thanks so much! I learned how you use the form to create the surface taper. Lots to learn🤭, I guess. My dad always used this felt strip stuff if putting a piece between existing sidewalk. I looked...COULDN'T FIND it any where!!! Lot of good tips from you, thanks🙂so much👍.
Thank you Mike. I understand how others think that dry pour is somehow easier but I don't get it. I have done just a few projects in my life with concrete and I've always mixed it, worked it, and two hours later I'm done.
Awesome video. Thank you so much for such a thorough step-by-step process. I've done my first drain channel and a 4x4 pad and have a few more to go. I hope you're wearing earplugs with the saws. You don't want permanent tinnitus like I have.
I’ve been teasing the dry pour guys about doing it a new way…. just take the unopened bags and lay them side by side covering your slab area. No ground prep needed. No forms needed. No watering needed. No mixing needed. No work needed. Let the rain do the job. No need to even open the bags, they will rot one day. To use a phrase of the dry pour brigade… “Work smarter, not Harder” Keep up the great videos!
A 50 min video, I groaned, but I watched because you are the real deal. Funny that you say concrete is easy, no big deal. Just like a baker who says here's how to bake sourdough that isn't a dense loaf. I can pour a decent slab but I have yet to perfect bread baking. I really liked how you hammered in the stakes for the form to the depth that they wouldn't be in the way when you did the screed. After college I worked for almost 2 years as a laborer for a general contractor. One memorable job was mixing mortar for a mason where he was blocking up window openings in the old Wilkes-Barre steam authority building, 1985 or so. I followed his directions on the mix but didn't learn. Thank you for instructing.
I agree with you 100%. However, I just did a leveling job on my front porch. It had sunk about two inches after 35 years. I want to put exterior grade porcelain tiles on it. I used the dry method because I can no longer do the heavy work of mixing concrete. I added a few trowels of portland and kept the forms on 3 days, keeping it wet all the time. It turned out perfect. My tile installer said it was flat and level, perfect for the tiles. I think that dry pouring is excellent for this application since it's standing on 6 inches of 35 year old hard concrete with not cracks in it at all.
Ok. I'm going to try making my own concrete 3x3 slab for the entrance to my greenhouse! ... maybe. I'm no mason, just a homeowner that wants to improve stuff DIY style. Thank you for explaining things so clearly and showing all the details!!! I've always been interested in making creative things with concrete but have never worked with it myself. Now that I understand how it's supposed to be used, it's not so scary. My spouse did a dry pour for the pool filter behind the pool. We shall see which one turns out best...hehehe...😂
Love all of the expert advice Mike. I feel like I am learning from a true craftsman. We are all lucky that a guy like you takes the time to share his knowledge. I now know enough about concrete from your videos to make a go of it. Thanks! and "No big deal"
A couple questions. When is it necessary to use expansion joints between new and old work? Also, what is the significance and purpose of using a magnesium float vs steel?
Hi, for the most part I never seen concrete expand unless it was highways or large parking lots, it mostly shrinks, concrete for the most part floats and expansion joints keep it from binding and cracking, the old timers made their own floats from wood which you can still buy. Magnesium and aluminum dose not absorb water, last longer and are easier to handle, steel is more for smooth finishes. thanks mike
@@MikeHaduck Mate that was an epic video! So much wisdom and not boring at all, which is impressive for such a long video about concrete haha. I’ll be following for more.
Wow, information overload. Really appreciate the time and effort you've put into this video. I was thinking of dry pouring a base but you've changed my mind. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Thanks Mike! There is so much questionable information on the net. When you demonstrate and explain the proper ways, it quickly becomes clear who's advice is trust worthy.
I hope some school or technical institution has kept a record of your knowledge. I am near to 70 yrs of age and I learnt a lot from your videos. You are a real professional and hands on tradesman. Its hard to get these youngsters to put the phone down and listen to our experience. I gave up and retired. I just laugh at the silly pricks from a quiet corner
I watch a lot of concrete videos. A LOT. This is hands down, *the best*, and most thorough, how-to video I have ever seen on concrete. Without question. And I'm only 25 minutes into it. I'm not exaggerating. This really is fantastic. The hard work that you put into this video did not go unnoticed.
Hi, thanks I appreciate the kind words, Mike
You could argue that I have watched too many concrete videos... and I couldn't help but think the same thing. If there's one video for a concrete noob to watch, it's this one. You nailed it Mike.
@@MikeHeath And it's so much more. It even addressed the business side which answered some questions that I had. Also the "old school method". I heard people talking about the old school way of doing things but they don't get into their mixes. I learned new things. Quite a few new things.
It's interesting that you say that this video is the best. It's only my second video. I'm really considering a dry pour to make my cement pad bigger. It's about 20'x15' nice size but I want a little more hangout space beside hottub.
@doityourselfdiva6001 I can't tell anybody what to do I just do my hands on videos and show the results of my experience and give a honest opinion as I can, thanks Mike
I am but a 68 year old female tackling a stoning job for the first time. I keep hearing your voice in my head saying: "See? No big deal. " You have taught me so much and I am grateful to you for taking the time to share your expertise in these videos. A master of masonry. Bless you.
Love this. Me too
Thanks Sarah, I appreciate the kind words, and no big deal, lol. Mike
Same here. I did some garden wall brickwork re pointing as per Mike's methods ( I need more practice though).😁
Me too! lol I get hearing Mr. Mike saying, not big deal, don't make a project out of it. also, keep it wet if you want it to stick! lol
Mike Haduck--the Bob Ross of concrete. Among my favorite quotes is "They try to make a big deal out of it like you're not smart enough to do concrete, well you are smart enough to do concrete and you're smart enough to do it the right way."
I loved the demystifying teaching style: seeing limestone broken into powder with a hammer; old-school mixing of basic materials; explaining that a float is just a piece of wood--plus a handle; showing how free he was to make designs and erase them; the railroad track base; working from small to large...
Well done Mike Haduck, thanks for passing "all this stuff on"
"No big deal." I love this as a motto for doing concrete. Although I have to say Mike, your videos are a big deal to me. As someone just starting out, the wisdom you're passing down through these videos means a lot. I know these long videos are probably a lot to produce, so thank you!
Thanks Ryan, I appreciate that. Mike
The most informative concrete how-to videos I've ever watched.
I love it when people explain the reasoning behind their methods.
Thank you for passing along some of your wisdom.
Thanks Seattle, I appreciate hearing that, Mike
Hey Mike, 80 year old retired NY construction worker here. Without a doubt this is the best explanation of concrete and some of it's uses. In my early 20's as a laborer on construction my 1st experience with concrete was on the Lake Ontario intake tunnel on 9 mile one in Oswego, NY, The second big one was for the 1st stack at the Oswego, NY Steam Station (Niagara Mohawk) It is 735' tall. Took one month to pour with what is called a slip form.
Thanks Michael , I appreciate hearing that from a professional, Mike
I wonder if we still have the knowledge and skilled tradesman to do those any more ? ! I marvel at the old towering stacks. And then there's the ones made of brick ! WOW ! :-0
Thank you for doing this. The fact that you want to pass down what you've learned so it's not forgotten, and educate us on topics like where Portland comes from, is very much appreciated!
Thanks fjcoughlin,, Mike
I'm from Pennsylvania too, and I currently live in SC. Your videos and old school way remind me of my father, who poured new concrete steps and sidewalks for the residents of West Conshohocken and Conshy. My brothers had their own way of mixing and butted heads with Dad too often. So Dad got his daughters to work with him instead. We got it done. Thank you for sharing and making these wonderful videos Mike.
Thanks, I appreciate it, Mike
I'm just curious. Whose steps have held up better?
@@BlankBrain The old man's. My brothers thought they knew everything.
My grandfather was a cement mason…I have his 40 year and 50 year mason and plaster union gold cards…he did big jobs all over the States and Canada…he worked on the tunnel on I-10 in Mobile, Alabama…I’m glad someone is here to teach the younger generation…”no big deal”. Thank you, Mike.
Thanks david,, I appreciate hearing that, Mike
The quintessential concrete master class. Thank you, Mike for sharing your knowledge and experience with concrete. Your channel is one of the best for beginners and professionals alike. Good health going forward to you, Mike and your family…….Phil
Thanks Phil, Mike
Just built my first form and did my first pour ever. I leveled it by shaking a board across it just like you did, but then called it done. Because that’s all I knew. Here, three hours later, I find this video and learn that DIY concrete can be finished better, not only that, It’s probably still wet enough to do it this time! So I pause to go back and finish it proper (with a smoother board). Gonna turn out great, thanks Mike!
Thanks Jordan, Mike
@jordantbaker It's actually best to do the last finishing a couple hours after it's set up more than in this video. You get it close like in the video and then wait until it's set up enough where you can trowel it perfectly smooth without getting ridges and go over it with a finishing trowel and then it can be broomed evenly with a lighter texture, which is still antislip, but looks much better and professional. Finally a once over on the edging for a perfectly even and smooth texture, for a perfect job that will last. I've never done a "dry Pour" and I never would waste my time on that backwards nonsense, but I watch a lot of videos and it certainly looks to be much more time and effort for sh!t results. It's not rocket science to pour concrete the right way. You just need to know a few key points and follow them.
@gordthor5351 thanks, I agree, Mike
Will remember this for any future DIY concrete projects. Last summer I repaired and resurfaced our cement block patio steps using your techniques. It saved us a considerable amount of money. Thanks Mike!!!
Thanks pirep,,, I appreciate it, Mike
We have learned so much from watching your tutorials. We live in Missouri and it gets fairly cold in the winter. The concrete that was poured prior to us owning was done unprofessionally. We have resurfaced some and completely replaced other sections following your old school methods. I’m proud to say they are all holding up and look amazing. We never thought we could do concrete work. We followed your videos and like you always say, it’s no big deal.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge it has helped us numerous times.
Thanks nah, I appreciate the kind words, Mike
Mike, thank you for such an incredible well thought out video. Very well made. Been watching you for a few years now. Never disappointed. God bless you
Thanks Cory, God bless. MIKE
This dudes helped me out so much passing his knowledge along. Living in an old busted up coalminer house in the Northeast I'm getting it fixed up little by little. Thankyou!
Thanks Mdg, Mike
Thanks Mike, great job. I don't like dry pour either, I used a dry pour to repair an old barn foundation, I was to lazy to fetch water that day. I went back a few days later and poured water in it, well after a year or so it crumbled apart. Learned my lesson.
Thanks duke, Mike
I did 20 years as a combat engineer and made concrete all over the world. Man I could tell you stories about Afghanistan and some other areas, but in the end your advice is great 2 yards or 200 yards. One job we did 1200 CY a night because the days were too hot. And the mix with plasticizer burned anyone who touched it. I love your videos they are top notch. Keep it up because concrete "is no big deal" and you help thousands if not millions do it themselves.
Thanks Vince, I appreciate hearing that from a professional, I could imagine the stories you got, thanks Mike
Thanks for the thorough presentation Mike. Appreciate that you did all the editing to tie together and explain all the topics. Great job!
Thanks Jim, Mike
Absolutely exceptional video on the topic! Simple, concise, informative, and comprehensive. Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom and expertise.
Thanks Gaius, Mike
Always a pleasure watching your vids, you have opened a doorway to functional art. Always wishing you well.✌️
Thanks siscokid,, Mike
Outstanding video! I appreciate you passing on your knowledge. Not sure how long I will be able to do it. I am turning 70 years old in January 2024 also. My mind says I can do it, but my body says another. 😂
Mike you make this stuff so easy. That is a sign of an excellent teacher! Thank you again.
Thanks Robert, I hear you, it's the heavy stuff that worries me, so I find my self just tinkering a few hours with the smaller stuff here and there as I go, thanks Mike
Mike - I've watched your Videos for 10 Years ... Because of your Generous Sharing of your Master Skills - I've been able to: Repair 2 Porches, Seal a Water Cistern, Repair 3 sets of STEPS, and Repair and Tile Over the Floors of an 1,800 SqFt House, and I'm STILL Learning ... may GOD bless you and yours.
Thanks Bill, I appreciate hearing that, God bless, Mike
Epic video Mike. Those dry pour people are the ones who want to call an ambulance when a clear liquid appears on their foreheads after a little exertion. And you look younger because of hard work, faith and some good music.
Thanks Gill, I appreciate it, Mike
Who? lol you are ignorant
Hi Mike, I'm from Slovenia EU and I've been following your channel for about 5-7 years.. I'm 32 years old and even though I'm a technical guy, I learned some tips that came in handy when doing a complete house renovation by myself. Family houses in Slovenia are typically made of concrete and brick..Because of your channel, I also pay more attention to the way our castles and churches are built, some of them are more than 1000 years old and have been demolished and rebuilt several times..I like to follow the construction method and the differences between the EU and the USA.. You have the most fancy wheels on a wheelbarrow I've ever seen😄 My ancestors worked in Wyoming mines around 1910 and came back.. Welcome to Slovenia on a tour of our nature, many castles, lakes and natural caves. Thanks for your videos, enjoy your retirement in Florida..
Thanks, nice to hear from Slovenia. Thanks Mike
@@MikeHaduck You probably never heard of our mini country and had to open google earth haha.. You must be surprised from which parts of the world we follow your channel. Some leave behind children, others leave behind videos which will teach future generations for decades to come..Thank you again.
Hi , I heard of it, I watch the travel channels, lots of stone work there, you are east of Italy and south of Austria, thanks for your support, Mike
Love watching your videos. As a county dirt tester, crushed was always better for backfill and asphalt pavement. But for concrete, round aggregate has the advantage of more slump at the same strength (w/c).
Hi Joe maybe so, I am not a testing expert, but it holds the surface better for ice and Spalding where it pops off the round gravel, thanks Mike
@MikeHaduck Thanks again. Now I feel better about having rejected round aggregate for concrete.
The best diy concrete video on the internet. Easy to follow and straight to the point. Thanks mike
Thanks apex,,Mike
Mike, God bless you for this great video. It is so helpful
Thanks God,bless, Mike
Moved to AZ and am no longer allowed to do concrete stuff because new house and wife says no. But I'll still watch all you have to share. Thanks so much for your effort good sir.
Thanks David, I appreciate it, Mike
So glad I found you Chanel Mike. Also thank you so much for your desire to want to pass along this knowledge that you have in masonry. I've recently been working on an inground concrete duck pond in our back yard. I'm still preparing my surfaces and ground for the pour in between the rain here in southern VA. Not a whole lot different than your situation there in PA. I'm planning on mixing my own concrete myself given I'm very close to a river and have an excellent source of river sand thats not contaminated really at all, very clean sand and not super fine like beach sand. From what I understand you use more aggregate ( sand/stone) than you do portland. So having a free supply of sand just seemed like the way to go. I've been experimenting with the Portland to sand ratio to get the most durable mix and have settled on 3 sand to 1.5 portland. I would really appreciate any feedback you could give me if we could get in contact and discuss it further that would be awsome and very much appreciated. I just want to get this right and not have to be so concerned with fixing or patching in the future. Just for reference the pond is dug to about 5.5 ft deep with a ledge at half that depth on the entire front, with an overall length of 16ft and a width of 6ft.. I really look forward to hearing back from you if you have the time. But I also understand if I don't hear back from you at all 😅 😆
Hi Stephen, pools are a bit different, I worked on concrete pools where they came in and blew a lightweight concrete in between the rebar and formed it with trowels as they went and pools where they mixed Portland and sand 5 sand to one potland ( if I remember correctly) tamped it with a trowel and laid a liner inside. It's a different world doing pools so it's hard for me to comment, thanks mike
Mike you are my go to for concrete videos! You have a knack for letting us all know it’s not hard. Thank you
Thanks, Mike
Thank you Mike! Your instruction is invaluable!
Thanks Sofi, Mike
Mike your the best. please remember to tell people to wash all their tools off after use. I have learned sooo much from you .please don't stop
Thanks Smokey, Mike
My dry pour sidewalks and porch are great! About to do another for a shed. If you do it right it is fine. I wouldn't do a dry pour driveway, but for pedestrian traffic or light duty home/farm use, it is great.
Hi James, the directions on the bag are clear, "add water and mix thoroughly " my opinion is dry pours are substandard, chezzy, unprofessional, amateur, and misleading, if the manufacturer changes the directions let me know, thanks Mike
Doing a dry pour and saying it came out great is like washing a car with a sponge or in those automatic car wash. It will come out looking good and clean but in time you will see that your car is full with scratches and web markings and have to take it to a professional detailer to then do a paint correction that will cost you maybe $300. Don't think that because something looks "nice" or ok it means it is good.
@@jonathanmolina3529 Noted. +1 for the naysaying "may way is the only way" team.
This guy talks to people like a jack ass
I love it when he says no big deal kind of a shot in the arm of confidence for the beginner like me, Thank you, sir
Thanks fun782,, Mike
Excellent video Mike
Thanks, Mike
Thanks for the tips and all the encouragement. 100 years more to you Mike.
Thanks mike,, Mike
I totally agree Mike. Dry pouring concrete appears to me to be utter nonsense- It takes longer and the results are inferior. A lot of people nowadays try to come up with ways to "hack" the established methods, sometimes successfully, but definitely not in this case. Thanks for all the great content!
Thanks guy, Mike
I learned just from watching you.
It's amazing how simple it seems, when you've been doing something for decades.
Thanks Rick, Mike
"You're smart enough to do concrete and you're smart enough to do it the right way." Thanks Mike!
Thanks juliet, Mike
Thank you Mike! I'm 62 years old. 40 years ago Dad and a couple buddies poured our garage floor while I was at college. Creek gravel and Portland. Skreed it off and call it done. I've always felt guilty about it so recently I poured a 10' x 12' pad myself. Hand mixed in my tractor bucket. 12 bags of Portland and I tried to follow your formula. Roughly 45 mins per bag of portland. Yup 9 hours by myself. I was sure tired. I had to do a 2nd pour adjacent so I put a motor on Dad's old mixer (the one he used 40 years ago). I hired an Amish kid to mix it while I ran the wheel barrow. 10 bags of Portland and less than 4 hours later it was done. Thanks for good advice. Note: It would probably be cheaper from a redi-mix truck but the plant I was using shut down for the winter and access was difficult. Anyone that disagrees with your methods gets a kick in the butt! Those old timers had a lifetime of learning. Respect them!
Thanks, I agree, Mike
Thanks Mike for setting these "new school" kids straight!!
Thanks Gibson, Mike
Appreciate the not fast pace and the calm mentioning of the little details that make the difference.
Thanks, Mike
Thanks for sharing Mike -
Thanks, Mike
Excellent video!!! Thank you for passing on your knowledge and experience. I hope the younger people are listening and learning.
Thanks twentyonetwo,,, I appreciate it, Mike
This is the biggest click bait I have ever seen 😅. Wet mixing it yes of course has a nicer finish, but why do it dry pour? Because you did a tiny ass pad for a grill, not a big pad for a shed etc. Again literally no one said a professional company should be doing this etc. It's came along for the average home owner who can afford to pay $3000 for a 12x12 slab. If you want the videos there are people who drive trucks on it etc. So I just dont understand why you claim is won't last? If you put a gravel base, put reinforcement, what about it makes it so it will only last a couple years etc?!?! Aside from you saying so what's the proof in that claim? All that aside wanted to mention a couple of things, 1 would have NEVER guessed you are almost 70 (that's not sarcasm for the record). 2 did actually learn a good bit from this video still so thanks for making it click bait I would click on 😅. 3 I really do wonder what a time lapse would be of mixing cement finishing it etc. Vs dry pouring and then taking 5 minutes to water it. Dry pour I feel is going to be a good bit of time less. There are lots of videos again with decent finished etc. Honestly when you initially dry poured and then cut to it being in there and filled it was perfectly smooth. I wonder how the finish would have been if you left that and then went back with a red brick and "sanded" the edges the next day instead of using the tool. I respect your opinion I do, I still however just don't completely agree with it. I think dry pour without a doubt has its place especially for the average home owner. If they are doing a small 2x4 pad I can see where it would make more sense to mix it and wet pour it. But if it's a idk 12x14 pad I think the reality of a homeowner not feeling comfortable doing all that and knowing the times to finish etc
.vs the simplicity of dry pour should be much more understandable. Just my opinion on yours
Hi Chris, I got lots of other videos on yes or no, not click bait just what's right and what is wrong, I know bad concrete a mile away because I ripped out enough over the years, and my opinion is dry pours are as bad as you can get,,,,my opinion, all these diyers have no experience and is making this stuff up as they go, and gullible people are buying it it, I got al lot of other videos where I did big pads all by hand and when I was a kid we did whole garages and basements with barrel mixers. But by the time you do all that you save a lot of time with the concrete truck, time is money, so no one does it anymore, dry pours will fall apart in the winter in my area and I haven't see a good finish on one yet, so I am trying to wake people up to the facts, thanks Mike
@@MikeHaduck again what facts do you have that it will fall apart over winter? If there is the base etc. As you explain in this video what will make it break apart?
@@christopherawoznicki2046 didn't you watch part 1?????
@@MikeHaduck yes? What does that have to do with anything? There is no proof in there that it would break apart over winter. 1 it hadn't cured completely and 2 last I checked winter doesn't hit stuff with a hammer lol. Again if the base and other steps are done correctly what would just make cured concrete break apart? This video you explain why gravel is important in the freeze zone, so what exactly would make dry pour all the sudden break apart? I rewatched the video and I mean again it wasn't even cured all the way and it's not like it was just breaking apart like a sand castle. Again there are videos of people driving big trucks on it etc. So what makes it so weak it would break apart is what I am asking
Hi Chris, driving trucks over it don't mean anything, you can drive a truck over dried mud, ask any army veteran, the directions on sacrete says mix thoroughly and leave no dry pockets, if you can't follow directions I can't help you, your fight is with the manufacturer, I have to guarantee my work and I can't promote a substandard, chezzy or unprofessional way of doing things, why would I want to do things half ass when i could do it better?, I tore out a lot of bad concrete and I have enough experience to know better, no use commenting to me anymore, your fight is with the experts who have been testing their products for years, go to the manufacturer and tell them they are wrong, thanks Mike
Well, I have to admit, after seeing this video, you have convinced me to do the concrete job I'm going to do in a correct manner. I was all ready to do the dry pour, just a 3' x 6' walkway with light foot traffic, as I'm very unsure of my ability to do the smoothing out process across the top. But I feel more confident to tackle it now.
Thanks for an awesome video. I really learned a lot.
Thanks Dean, Mike
Dry pour has it's place.
Hi 99, where???? Mike
For idiots
@@MikeHaduck Looks like a lot of places. Shed floor, porches, small sidewalks, patios, ect, ect. Some people only have the money to buy bags of concrete, I'm sure you know some poor folks. Mixing up 50 bags of mud and finishing them in the hot sun is just out of the question for a lot of people, you know that.
@@99cachorro I have to agree.....a petit woman without much strength can do so much by herself beyond dumping bags of concrete (with difficulty). I know things should be done right as the way Mike does concrete, just like I don't compromise when it comes to cooking & baking. But physical & budget limitations make it impossible to do "what's right". Unfortunate reality. At least where I live doesn't freeze. So an unprofessional looking pad outside the back door is still better than none at all. Really love watching his videos though....
@@hisremnantsorry but if this petite woman you speak of can man handle the huge heavy bags of concrete then she can do all the rest of it quite easily.
No Big Deal..
I understand that she may not care enough to bother, and that’s fine. But the result is far inferior.
Mike you are the man, most businesses today are doing things the fast and cheapest way possible.
It is all about money, not quality.
Thanks Kenny, Mike
Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us. I know I learned a few things from you.
Thanks Joe, Mike
Thank you for taking the time to put these together. Not only for us DIY'ers but also to be better informed on hiring out for a job.
Thanks, I appreciate it, Mike
God Bless Mr. Haduck, your willingness to pass on knowledge is priceless.
Thanks for the kind words, Mike
You're an artist Mr. Mike! My grandfather was a concrete man, you brought back great memories. Thank you. Respect!
Thanks Jorge, Mike
Mike - I appreciate your time and effort to pass your knowledge on. It has helped me many times to tackle jobs I otherwise was intimidated by. Thank You - Lucas
Thanks Lucas, Mike
I'm certified in cabinet making and painting, I was curious about Manson work. I have learned so much in this video
Thanks Avius,,,Mike
Would probably never learned this any other way, this is pure value. Thank you sir.
Thanks, Mike
I love that you think about water! Some contractors simply do the work (of any kind) with no consideration for where water comes from, where it flows, etc. They'll say the HO asked them to pour a patio slab, not do drainage work. I've seen patios up against the house, & sloped toward the structure with no way to get out.
Thanks, Max, Mike
Instead of doing my own research, I’d rather trust your decades of actual experience and all the research you have done. Great video. Extremely helpful.
Thanks Jack, Mike
Very thorough videos! You even went to China! And the other cool informative field trips! I watched Part 1 & 2. You must have said, "Concrete is no big deal" 20 times! I'm getting my brain ready to replace a mailbox post for a neighbor. Probably the easiest job ever, but in my 65 years of being a decent all-around handyman, roofer, siding, plumbing, electric, etc, I've never worked with concrete! Whenever the rain stops this week in Maryland, I'll tackle that job!
Thanks for all your instructions, and vote of confidence!
Thanks James, I appreciate that, Mike
Good and thorough demonstration Mike, you still got it.
Thanks mch,, Mike
Thanks Mike u rock!! I'm all for finding a better way of doing things, but it amazes me the number of amateurs that put out a youtube instructional video showing a ship-shod , half-azzed way of doing something. So refreshing to see an actual expert sharing their knowledge. From someone who believes that if its worth doing, it's worth doing right; Thanks again for all your efforts, much appreciated!
Thanks Sky-Guy, Mike
You sold me on not doing a dry pour! Thank you for sharing your opinion and your knowledge on here, Mike!
Thanks colejames, Mike
Watched many instructional and DIY videos, honestly yours is one of the best I have viewed. Thanks for the step up.
Thanks Dave, Mike
@@MikeHaduck You bet. I'll be checking out more of your videos. So...thank you.
Your very good Sir l was thinking about doing something using concrete u cover it all God had you to show so many your wisdom on concrete!
Thanks, Mike
Good on you Mike. In another life I would’ve loved to be your apprentice. You’re a great teacher and an absolute expert in your field.
Thanks Robert, I appreciate the kind words, Mike
What a video! You took the time and trouble to explain everything re concrete and the reasons why this and that, very thorough. Subbed and best wishes from the U.K.
Thanks, Good to hear from UK, Mike
Thanks so much Mike, very helpful. I have a 10 x 10 patio that I removed 50 year old crumbling bricks from, and I have been considering what to do with this open area. I have steered away from the paver option, due to weeds and the need to use my snowblower over it in the winter. I have also considered the 'dry pour' method and the regular concrete 'wet pour' method. you have helped me decide to do it right w/ the wet pour method. thanks so much! Also, I love you scriptures!
Thanks pcf,,, Mike
Thank you for making these videos. I was getting ready to dry pour a 12x20 and now I think I'm going to do it in sections the way the old timers did it.
Thanks, Mike
Brother... Mike... This is a great video. If anyone is stuck on what to do about concreate after this, they need to STOP put their tools down and pickup a phone and call a mason, because you went from A-Z to help everyone pour concrete and do it correctly. You my friend are the MASTER MASON.... You are the educator.... Everyone needs to watch ALL of your videos, even the Banjo Video :) God Bless Brother... Ernie
Hi Ernie, You are too kind, starting to play out again in Florida. Putting on my Facebook page where I will be, but still making videos on masonry, happy 4th, Mike
@@MikeHaduck Hey Mike...Glad you are enjoying yourself in Florida. You have a Great 4th as well Brother GOD BLESS.
What a great video!! Thank you for the wisdom and no pretense. I learned a lot and enjoyed doing so. My favorite line …” NO BIG DEAL”. Thank you so much! One more thing… I love “old school “
Thanks Shasta, Mike
Very good video, I watched the entire thing and learned not to be afraid of concrete!
Thanks Brock, Mike
Love the channel. 90 years or family concrete experience here, high and dry sand does not need a gravel base.
Thanks, Mike
Great video! Thank you for sharing the knowledge and more importantly the wisdom.
Thanks Alex, Mike
Thanks so much! I learned how you use the form to create the surface taper. Lots to learn🤭, I guess. My dad always used this felt strip stuff if putting a piece between existing sidewalk. I looked...COULDN'T FIND it any where!!! Lot of good tips from you, thanks🙂so much👍.
Thanks, Mike
Thank you Mike. I understand how others think that dry pour is somehow easier but I don't get it. I have done just a few projects in my life with concrete and I've always mixed it, worked it, and two hours later I'm done.
Hi David, I agree, thanks Mike
Awesome video. Thank you so much for such a thorough step-by-step process. I've done my first drain channel and a 4x4 pad and have a few more to go.
I hope you're wearing earplugs with the saws. You don't want permanent tinnitus like I have.
Thanks, Mike
Mike, this is just my opinion: Another good demonstration and exposition on how to develop skills. Superb for RUclips.
Thanks Don, Mike
I’ve been teasing the dry pour guys about doing it a new way…. just take the unopened bags and lay them side by side covering your slab area. No ground prep needed. No forms needed. No watering needed. No mixing needed. No work needed. Let the rain do the job. No need to even open the bags, they will rot one day.
To use a phrase of the dry pour brigade…
“Work smarter, not Harder”
Keep up the great videos!
Thanks Boss, I appreciate it, Mike
I have learned so much from you. Pittsburgh here. Thanks for sharing and passing your knowledge on. You may work in concrete but you are solid gold. 🖖
Thanks David, I appreciate the kind words, Mike
Best 50 min on RUclips..so I just bought a shirt ..Like it says no big deal
Thanks rbrazz, Mike
As others have said, it's definitely a big deal to me. Thanks so much for your wisdom. I'll definitely keep it in mind for the future.
Thanks, Mike
A 50 min video, I groaned, but I watched because you are the real deal. Funny that you say concrete is easy, no big deal. Just like a baker who says here's how to bake sourdough that isn't a dense loaf. I can pour a decent slab but I have yet to perfect bread baking. I really liked how you hammered in the stakes for the form to the depth that they wouldn't be in the way when you did the screed. After college I worked for almost 2 years as a laborer for a general contractor. One memorable job was mixing mortar for a mason where he was blocking up window openings in the old Wilkes-Barre steam authority building, 1985 or so. I followed his directions on the mix but didn't learn. Thank you for instructing.
Thanks Spring, good to hear from a Wyoming Valley guy, Mike
Mike , I am so thankful you are sharing. Thank you.
Thanks Scott, Mike
I agree with you 100%. However, I just did a leveling job on my front porch. It had sunk about two inches after 35 years. I want to put exterior grade porcelain tiles on it. I used the dry method because I can no longer do the heavy work of mixing concrete. I added a few trowels of portland and kept the forms on 3 days, keeping it wet all the time. It turned out perfect. My tile installer said it was flat and level, perfect for the tiles. I think that dry pouring is excellent for this application since it's standing on 6 inches of 35 year old hard concrete with not cracks in it at all.
Hi, maybe if you added the Portland it will hold up better, but if you are exposed to freezing rain, snow you might have a problem, thanks Mike
Will somebody please give this guy his own TV show!!! Mike has taught me how to not fear the concrete as it's "no big deal"!
Thanks for the kind words, Mike
Ok. I'm going to try making my own concrete 3x3 slab for the entrance to my greenhouse! ... maybe.
I'm no mason, just a homeowner that wants to improve stuff DIY style. Thank you for explaining things so clearly and showing all the details!!! I've always been interested in making creative things with concrete but have never worked with it myself. Now that I understand how it's supposed to be used, it's not so scary.
My spouse did a dry pour for the pool filter behind the pool. We shall see which one turns out best...hehehe...😂
Thanks ssstults,, Mike
Thank you for sharing your years of experience and knowledge with us good Sir .
Thanks Daniel, Mike
Love all of the expert advice Mike. I feel like I am learning from a true craftsman. We are all lucky that a guy like you takes the time to share his knowledge. I now know enough about concrete from your videos to make a go of it. Thanks! and "No big deal"
Thanks bigcat, Mike
Awesome video. So much information. This is what ppl need. How to do things properly and why
Thanks realgame, Mike
A couple questions. When is it necessary to use expansion joints between new and old work? Also, what is the significance and purpose of using a magnesium float vs steel?
Hi, for the most part I never seen concrete expand unless it was highways or large parking lots, it mostly shrinks, concrete for the most part floats and expansion joints keep it from binding and cracking, the old timers made their own floats from wood which you can still buy. Magnesium and aluminum dose not absorb water, last longer and are easier to handle, steel is more for smooth finishes. thanks mike
Thanks for taking the time to do these videos.
Thanks Daron, Mike
He even wrote the score. Mike Haduck is an inspiration.
Thanks TK, Mike
@@MikeHaduck Mate that was an epic video!
So much wisdom and not boring at all, which is impressive for such a long video about concrete haha.
I’ll be following for more.
keep up the good work mike very helpful videos on how to do cement work
Thanks ranger, I appreciate it, Mike
Love the long video Mike ... hope ya had a great 4th of July holiday and you made some songs.
Thanks TEP, Mike
Wow, information overload. Really appreciate the time and effort you've put into this video. I was thinking of dry pouring a base but you've changed my mind. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Thanks, Mike
Best concrete video I have seen. Definiutely a pro.
Thanks, Mike
Thanks Mike! There is so much questionable information on the net. When you demonstrate and explain the proper ways, it quickly becomes clear who's advice is trust worthy.
Thanks, I appreciate it, Mike
Excellent video. I learned something. Old school is the best school.
Thanks Oz, Mike
Mike Thanks for taking the time to share your wealth of knowledge. That's really cool of you and you're very humble. Much appreciated
Thanks Wookie, I appreciate the kind words, Mike
Best concrete video I have seen.
Thanks Richard, Mike
I hope some school or technical institution has kept a record of your knowledge. I am near to 70 yrs of age and I learnt a lot from your videos. You are a real professional and hands on tradesman. Its hard to get these youngsters to put the phone down and listen to our experience. I gave up and retired. I just laugh at the silly pricks from a quiet corner
Thanks Peter, I appreciate hearing that, Mike
wow, knowledge is power. I’m considering a driveway and foundation for my shed. Now I know what to look for in hiring someone.
Thanks DreaM, Mike