How to Square Forms for a Concrete Slab

Most concrete corners should be exactly 90 degrees.

That’s why setting your forms properly is so important, and that means making sure they are not only the right length but also the correct angles. Often the corners of a patio should be 90 degrees, or perfectly square. With a few straight-forward measurements and a little math, you can make your corners square every time.

1. Measure one side of your form and make a mark exactly 3 feet from the corner.

2. Measure the opposing side of the same corner and make a mark exactly 4 feet from the corner.

3. Measure the diagonal distance between the two marks. If the distance is exactly 5 feet, then the corner is square. If not, move the forms farther or closer, until the diagonal measurement is exactly 5 feet.

4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 for each corner of your patio, until all of them are exactly square.

Tip

If your patio is not big enough to measure 3 or 4 feet, use 1.5 and 2 feet, with a diagonal of 2.5 feet.