How Do You Make a Concrete Curb and Gutter?

A concrete curb and gutter are typically installed between the roadway and sidewalk. They are designed to provide a safety barrier from water runoff.

Because the basic design of a curb and gutter is relatively simple, you can make one yourself with a little bit of basic construction knowledge. The curb itself will serve as a short wall made of concrete. Typically, they are about 6-inches high, tall enough to create a barrier between your yard and the road.

The gutter is a flat piece of concrete that will deter water from pooling in your yard. Instead, it will guide it into the street, where it will eventually slide into a sewer drain. If you have the skill and the patience to build a concrete curb and gutter, keep reading for a few helpful tips.

 

Excavating the Area

The first thing you’ll need to do is to dig out the area for the curb and gutter. This will require an excavator or mechanical shovel. Once you have a trench, you’ll need to tamp the dirt down and lay down a gravel base. Your base should be the same width as the curb and gutter combined.

 

Building Your Forms

It takes a bit of woodworking skill (and a lot of wood) to create a concrete curb and gutter. Once your area is prepared, you will need to work on building the forms. Your curb forms will be made from a 2×6 board, six inches from the very top of the gutter. It’s a good idea to use spacers every six feet (either wood or metal) to ensure the boards stay in place.

If that sounds confusing, think about it this way: Essentially, you are creating an “open” box with your boards, or a frame. Once everything is properly in place, it needs to be clamped together and you should always doublecheck to make sure your forms are level.

 

Pouring the Concrete

Once your forms are in place, it’s time to pour your concrete. Once it is set, you can remove your curb boards and smooth out the concrete with finishing tools. You can also remove your spacers and fill in the gaps with mortar.

 

Finding a Concrete Cutting Service Near Me

If all of this sounds like a bit of a job, it’s because it is. However, it certainly isn’t impossible to do it on your own. If you have the carpentry skills and concrete materials to get the job done, you can turn this job into a weekend project!

On the other hand, if you don’t want to spend your time, money, or energy on a project like this, feel free to contact us at Debuck Construction! We are happy to work on concrete curb and gutter jobs all throughout the southeast Michigan area. Whether you have a large space to cover or a small area that needs a curb and gutter, we can fulfill your needs. Get ahold of us today with any other questions you may have, or to set up a time for us to look at what you need in terms of concrete curb and gutter installation.

Contact us Today for an Estimate! 586.726.1528