Concrete Slab Expansion Joint

[doingitmyself]

I'm pouring a 4'' in concrete slab patio unfinished. The end result is going to be a mortared brick overlay. The slab is 18 X 11 and I'm planning on putting in only one expansion joint in. My question pertains to placing the expansion joint in. How do I do it? It seems to me as though the concrete would be too thick to float it in once it's poured. Do I need to place a form in the middle? Placing the expansion joint on one side, fill both sites with concrete, then pulling out the form once concrete is in on both pads? Any help would be appreciated.

[Rich]

Don't think you need an expansion joint for that small of a slab - a control joint would work just fine. A control joint can be tooled in after you pour with an extension handle.

[CurtisS]

Along these same lines, I will being pouring the floor of my new garage (24'x36') very soon. What is the best way to tool in a control joint? I don't plan on putting in expansion joints.
Thanks.

Caio!

CurtisS

[Rich]

You can buy or rent (maybe) handles and a control joint tool to enable you to reach all the way across the slab (or at least half way). You will probably want to rent a bullfloat anyway which will come with a handle with extensions.

[Rich]

Oh - to keep it straight you can pour the slab and then snap a line across it with a dryline (used - because it'll be worth nothing after you use it).

[CurtisS]

Thanks Rich.
I am going to look into renting the tools. I may also hire someone with slab experience to give a hand. I have done patios before but nothing this big.

Ciao!

Curtis