Any experience with quikrete walkmaker? Or other concrete molds?

Question

I recently was taking a look online at some concrete molds, specifically the Quikrete walkmaker, and wondered if anyone had any experience using them.

If you have, are you happy with the results?

Anything you like/dislike about them?

Things you tried that worked...or wish you had tried?

We have a new home, which has a concrete slab covered patio, but now we wish we had the builder pour more and extend it to the end of the house. I would like to do a patio area and possibly some pathways...something that would add a bit of a different contrast to the concrete slab, but still transition well from it.

My husband just wants to hire someone to pour another slab of concrete to extend it...but I like the idea of more of a patterned look for something different.

Also, I'm really cheap, and I figure it's going to cost between $1600-$2000 to get concrete poured. I would love to do something myself and save on that.

I would like to do about 200 sq. ft.

Do you think that this option does save some money? Or is it just as expensive as using pre-made pavers or pouring concrete?

Another thing that I wondered if I could save time and/or money on was the base under them. We have rock-solid ground that is nearly impossible to dig. From what I understand, the walkmaker can be installed directly on top of cleared ground. I thought this might prevent some digging and having to buy fill rock/sand for the base. If you have used the molds, did you install it right on top of the ground or dig out a base for them?

Answer 1

I found that they looked a little cheesy. Whatever you use you want to make sure that you have a well leveled base. If you cut corners, you will just regret it in the end. I would opt for a sand base and some pavers or bricks. There are so many wonderful designs out now, they look much better than concrete, it's all doable by a DIY and will save you $$$.

Answer 2

We have used these molds extensively, and love them!

Yes, it saves a bunch of money.

You can put them straight down on the ground.  Just make sure to clear off any big rocks, etc.

Also, DON'T use the Quickrete that has rocks in it!!  The best mix is plain old cement and sand. Make sure to "tuck" it in good to the mold so you don't have holes at the edges.

Either wear gloves or have a bucket of water close by to wash your hands frequently.  Concrete is very drying to your skin, so also be ready with the hand lotion.  And read all the warnings about breathing the stuff, too.

You are going to really love the finished result.  My husband has put down probably 400 square feet of paths with a mold already, and everyone goes wild when they see it.  He loves doing it, too...says it's relaxing.

Good luck!