How to Mix Concrete
The strength of a concrete mix will vary to suit requirements. The following how to breaks down the simple steps for you.
Steps
1- Set up your mixer following the manufacturers instructions. For this exercise lets assume that the concrete is to be used to pour a foundation which is designed to carry a basic brick wall.
2- Start by adding at least one bucket of water to the mixer and use a ratio of 4(chippings): 2(sand): 1(cement). Chippings or aggregate can be bought in a variety of sizes, however, for this task a medium grade aggregate is best. Follow the ration of 4(chippings): 2(sand): 1(cement). To increase the volume of concrete mixed simply multiply each component within the same ratio.
3- Allow the concrete time to mix and add water to suit. For a foundation it wise to use a slightly watery consistency, this encourages the concrete to flow to all extremities.
Tips
Remember to keep the measurements of all the components as consistent as possible to prevent a reduction in strength
Allow all the components to integrate with one another whilst in the mixer, this will improve the workability of the concrete
The benefit of using a mixer on location is that waste is minimised and more can always be mixed.