How to Make Concrete

Springtime brings to mind thoughts of gardens, flowers and outdoor projects. Some of these projects may involve using concrete. If the project is quite large, it is easier to hire a redi-mix company to deliver the concrete for the project; however, if the project is small, you can mix the concrete on your own.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Concrete mix
• Hoe
• Water
• Large bucket
• Waterproof gloves
• Safety glasses
• Wheel barrow

1. Purchase an 80 lb. bag of standard concrete mix from a hardware store for $3 to $6. Make sure the bag states concrete mix, not sand or mortar mix. The latter mixes will not work if the concrete needs to be thicker than three quarters of an inch. There are several specialized more expensive types of concrete mix, but they are not necessary for a successful project.
2. Reserve a small amount of concrete mix in a cup or small pail. This will be used to add to the mix if it gets too runny or if it is necessary to patch some areas.
3. Empty the concrete mix into the wheel barrow. Read the directions on the bag, and measure the correct amount of water in the bucket. Make sure to have a friend ready to help mix the concrete.
4. Mix the concrete with the hoe, while the friend slowly adds the water at one end of the wheel barrow. Do not dump the water in all at one time or use a hose to add the water. This will endanger the ending consistency of the concrete.
5. Continue mixing until all the concrete mixture is saturated. Pour the mixture into the desired mold or prepared area.
6. Clean the wheel barrow and hoe as soon as possible. Once the concrete hardens, it is very difficult to remove.

Tips & Warnings

• Line the wheel barrow with a heavy duty garbage bag. This will make clean up easy and keep the concrete from hardening on the wheelbarrow.
• Always read the directions, and measure the exact amount of ingredients for the sturdiest mix possible.
• Always wear gloves and safety glasses when working with concrete mix. The raw mix can cause severe burns.

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