How to make a concrete cover slab for a well
From Audiopedia
You’ll also need a hole in the slab so that people can lower a bucket or install a pump. A tin drum can be used to create this hole, and it should be big enough for a standard 10-liter bucket. To make the slab strong, you’ll use reinforcing wire. Take 3 mm thick wire and create a grid with spaces about 10 centimeters apart. Once you’ve made this grid, set it aside while you prepare the concrete.
Now, mix your concrete. Use 3 parts gravel, 2 parts washed river sand, and 1 part cement. If gravel isn’t available, use 4 parts washed river sand and 1 part cement. Pour this concrete mix into the mold, filling it halfway. Place the wire grid on top of the wet concrete, then pour in the rest of the mix, leveling it with a piece of wood.
Let the slab cure for about an hour, then carefully remove the tin drum mold used for the central hole. Fill the hole with wet sand and put the tin drum back on top. Place another ring of bricks around it, leaving a small space between the bricks and the tin mold-about 7.5 centimeters. Fill this space with more concrete, shaping what’s called the protective collar. This collar will keep water out when you’re drawing water from the well.
Let the slab cure for another hour, then remove the bricks and tin mold. Let the slab harden overnight and keep it wet for at least 5 days to make it strong.
Before placing the slab on the well, you need to test its strength. After it has cured for about 7 days, place four small blocks of wood under the slab to raise it slightly off the ground. Then, have a few people step onto the slab and even dance on it! If the slab is made well, it won’t crack or break under this weight.
Once the slab is strong and ready, spread a bed of cement mortar on top of the well’s lining, and carefully set the cover slab in place. This will ensure the well is well-protected and safe for regular use.
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