Step 6 · Backfilling and Concrete Repair

This is the step most people slow down on. Take it one move at a time — there’s no rush, and you can rewind the clip as many times as you need.

Once you have passed the inspection, you can close up the floor. First, carefully backfill the trenches with the gravel you previously set aside or new gravel. Surround the pipes completely and compact the gravel gently to ensure the pipes are fully supported and will not shift. Be careful not to damage the pipes with sharp rocks or excessive force. Lay down a vapor barrier (a sheet of plastic) over the gravel to prevent moisture from wicking up through the new concrete. Mix your ready-mix concrete according to the package directions in a wheelbarrow or a rented concrete mixer. Pour the concrete into the trenches, slightly overfilling them. Use a shovel or trowel to work the concrete around the pipes. Finally, use a straight piece of lumber (a screed board) in a sawing motion to level the new concrete patch flush with the existing basement floor. Let the concrete cure fully, which can take several days to a week before it's ready to be walked on or framed over.