I would use a laser level. You can pick up a decent one for $50-$100 give or take. Water levels are very accurate as well if you have a long enough clear hose, or at least clear on the ends. string levels work ok on short distances, but can sag a lot over long distances.

establish a control point somewhere along the pad site. This is the point where you want everything to be level with. from there find the corners and as many points along all sides as you need. You can place grade stakes along where you intend to place your forms and mark the elevations on them, or level your forms as you are building them.

I have also put grade stakes in the middle of the pad. that way I get an idea of how true im keeping the concrete to level. I would hammer them just barely below level that way the concrete would cover them just enough to hide them.

disclaimer* lol
Im by no means a concrete guy this is just the way I have done pads in the past, mostly hot tub pads 10x10 or so.

I`d choose a water level, they cost pennies to make and are very accurate if you use a large diameter tub/barrel full of water. I used one to level a circular ring foundation in my yard that slopes in two directions..i live on the side of a hill :)

Awesome guys! :)

By the way, I'm soooo tired today hauling away the dirt for 2 hours! I think I've got 10x12 left to haul away.

You can buy a string level for almost nothing.

I have a string level but I am not sure if it's going to be accurate especially for a 32-34 ft wide area. Looks like the string is going to sag.

Do not level.

Pitch to drain.

dcarch

The patio is about 5 ft away from the house's foundation. Do I still need to pitch it a little?

Here is the latest update taken today. I'm still removing the dirt that I tilled yesterday.

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the pictures looks like that you do have a natural slope away from house. IMHO, a patio made from pavers would look good there! John

Thanks John! :)

I'm not a big fan of string levels. In my experience, they are only approximately accurate, especially over the dimensions you are referring to. Use a water level or laser if you want to be precise.

Just an update. I have a 4 inch long glass level. It's the one where you hang on the string. I started putting wooden stakes 2 days ago. I used the stake in the middle near the steps as my reference. To cut the story short, the string after installing it look funny and totally not leveled.

Last night, I bought a 20 ft 1/2" OD transparent tube. I found an empty detergent transparent jug. I drilled one hole at the side and close to the bottom. Insert the tube there and it was tightly fit. I placed water in the jug then drained it via the tube. I made some test inside the house and the result is unbelievable.

So today, I used it. I placed the jug at the dug area near the steps again and drained the water until the remaining water in the jug reached 4 inch. I started leveling and it was a breeze. I saw different neighbors at their own backyard and I felt I was like a professional since I was walking with the 20 ft tube. HAHAHA! :D

I'll take a picture of the jug and the hose tomorrow. I didn't touch it anymore after I started digging again. :)

Thanks guys!

Just got in. It's patio bricks delivery today. I helped the guys bring the pavers to my driveway. LOL.

Anyways, here it is. :)

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I think you'll be much happier with the results of your new, high-tech level!

:) I'm completing all the remaining dirt. It's about 3x5 left. I should be able to complete it today. It's just so muddy because it rained. If I get a chance later, I'll start putting the crushed stones.

Here are the latest pics taken an hour ago! :)

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