DIY Concrete Foundation Mix Ratios

Concrete mixed in the proper ratio will yeild a durable and long-lasting material.

Concrete is one of the essential building materials for a majority of projects. One of the most common uses for concrete in homes is as the foundation. If you want to mix your own concrete, you can do so with the basic components of Portland cement, sand and gravel. With the proper ratio of these elements, you can compose concrete that is easy to manipulate and more important, durable.

Things You'll Need

• Wheelbarrow
• Sand
• Portland cement
• Gravel
• Water
• Shovel

Instructions

1. Move the wheelbarrow into place near the site where you intend to pour your foundation.

2. Add Portland cement, sand, then gravel to the wheelbarrow. Adhere to the ratio 1:2:3. For example, if you add 2 cups of Portland cement, you would need 4 cups of sand and 6 cups of gravel.

3. Stir together the three materials with a shovel.

4. Add water to the dry mixture. Be sure to do this very slowly as you are continually stirring the mix with a shovel. It is easiest if you have a friend slowly add the water as you mix the concrete. Stop adding water as soon as the concrete has a pancake batter-like consistency. Once it does, it is ready to be poured.

References

• "Complete Do-It-Yourself Manual: Completely Revised and Updated"; Editors of The Family Handyman; 2005