How to Cast Your Own Pedestal for Outdoor Art
So you have a lovely new garden bench that needs a good base to set on? A birdbath that must be level? A nice statue that keeps tipping over? Here's how to make your own concrete base(s) for those special garden features.
[edit] Steps
- Determine what the "frost line" is in your area of the country. This is the depth to which the ground in your area will freeze in the winter.
- Dig a hole the size of your desired base to 6 inches below the frost line.
- Calculate the cubic yardage of cement needed to fill the hole. If the hole is over 3 ft deep, get advice from a construction professional and ignore the rest of this article.If the hole is less than 3 ft deep, Place a few inches of gravel in the bottom and tamp it down.
- Mix your cement according to directions on the bag(s).
- Pour the cement into the hole and level the surface, checking it with a level from time to time as you tamp the cement down. Let the cement cure for a minimum of 24 hours.
- Position your garden feature and enjoy!
[edit] Tips
- Some deep holes and/or areas larger than a few cubic yards may need re-bar reinforcement or special footings. Consult a local construction contractor for requirements in your area.
[edit] Warnings
- Do not get cement on your skin if you can help it. It will dry the skin and can cause chemical burns when curing.
[edit] Things You'll Need
- Shovel
- Cement
- Level
- Gravel
- Possibly some Re-bar
- A Construction Contractor to go to for advice if attempting to create a large base.
