How to Mix Concrete by Hand
There are several small projects around the house that do not require the services of a concrete truck. Installing fence posts, exterior lampposts, garden walkways and smaller slabs, all lend themselves to simply mixing up a sufficient supply of concrete by hand.
Few tools are required, and they are readily available in most homes.
- Wheelbarrow
- Garden hoe
- Water
- Gloves
- While you can prepare your own concrete by combining portions of Portland cement, sand and gravel, most homeowners today prefer to purchase it in pre-mixed in bags. Since the only ingredient remaining to add is water, it is much easier with which to work. It is also cheaper in the long run rather than having to buy three separate bags of material.
- Pour a portion of your concrete into a wheelbarrow. Wheelbarrows make good mixing containers because of their sturdiness and comfortable height. Mold the concrete into a mound shape with your hands, leaving a bedded indentation in the center. Gradually add water and thoroughly mix them together with the hoe until the right consistency is achieved.
- The consistency of the mix should be neither too dry nor too watery, but claylike. Take a handful of the mix and squeeze it. It should not crumble, nor should it ooze out from between your fingers. If the mixture seems too watery, allow it to sit for a few minutes and the drying process will correct it.
- Dump the concrete mix into the form you have decided to use and allow it to dry.