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How to make a concrete POST CAP
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Leveling the mold
The lower part of the mold [m1] was packed level on the ground.
The upper part of the mold [m2] was placed on top.
Some strips of wood [m4] were screwed around the top of the lower mold [m1] to hold the
upper part of the mold [m2] in place.
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Applying oil and diesel to the mold again
The top part of the mold [m2] was removed and another coat of used car oil and diesel mixture was applied to the inside of the mold.
Any excess was wiped off with a rag.
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Clamping the mold shut
The top part of the mold [m2] was then put back in place on top of the bottom part of the mold [m1]
and clamped tight.
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Placing concrete into the mold
Wet concrete was then placed inside the mold.
For information on how to mix concrete
click here
The concrete was poked continuously a few times after each shovel-full to help get rid of any air pockets and make the outsides
of the concrete smooth.
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All the concrete in
When the mold was full, the wet concrete was again poked repeatedly with a stick
to settle the concrete, get rid of any air pockets and make the concrete nice and smooth against the mold.
The outside of the mold was also repeatedly tapped with a hammer, making vibrations to settle the wet concrete even more.
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The unveiling
The mold containing the concrete was left in the shade, covered with wet or damp cloths and left for about four or five days to allow for curing and minimize the risk of cracking.
The clamps were then taken off, and the top part of the mold [m2] came away with ease.
The cap was then turned upside down, screws at two corners of the lower mold [m1] were taken out and the rest of the mold came away, also with ease.
The concrete finish wasn't too bad. There were a few small air pockets around the outside but it was perfect for the rustic look that was wanted.
The mold was cleaned, re-brushed with oil and diesel, put back together again and used to make another two concrete caps.
When the caps were taken out of the mold, they were left for another few days to further harden just to ensure
that no edges
would be damaged while handling.
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Page three: Preparing the form - Making & pouring the concrete