So the wedge shaped concrete pad thats right up against the house; April 17th, we're having air conditioning installed before it gets to hot out. According to the installer, the unit will fit on the pad, about 1 foot away from the water supply and electrical box.
He's ok with that (a professional Lennox dealer) and I want it on this side of the house as well because we have plans for a patio off of the back of the house. But, to give myself some peace of mind, can I square off the wedge shaped concrete with more concrete?
I'd like to build a form (make the wedge into a rectangle), go and score some quikcrete from Home Depot and pour it myself. 5-10 bags? Then they can put the unit closer to the left side of the window (and farther from the water / electric meter)
Do I need to tie it into the existing driveway / wedge? Wire mesh re-bar inside of the concrete or no?
The only load it'll have is the AC unit. Maybe I build a shed type enclosure over it and keep recycling inside of it (we keep our recycling outside)
Any suggestions? I have 2 weekends to accomplish this; and its hovering around 45 – 55 degrees right now. Not the optimal temperature to pour concrete, but its so little.
Best Answer
Assuming both existing concrete pads are stable, I see no problem adding whatever bit of a pad you need for an AC unit. Do you ever see them move independently during the spring thaw? Just leave an 1/8 to 1/4 inch expansion joint between the new concrete and the pad you are trying to match level with. Simply frame up a form with plywood cut to proper height, support the sides with a few blocks so they will stay straight, pour some sacrete and screed it smooth. Float it after it starts to set up if you want a smoother finish. I'm quite sure you will be fine.