Cement mixing is a great diy skill to master and can be applied to a huge range of outdoor building projects around your home.
Semi dry concrete mix for sleepers.
A dry mix is immediately mechanically stable whereas a wet mix is more likely to allow the post to move until set.
I thought the best way to do this is concrete it in considering i am doing a patio now as well.
If not simply use a watering can or hose.
You may want to leave behind some concrete mixture for haunching at the back of the edging.
My question is this.
Rain and water within the soil will gradually set the mix and the aggregate content keeps the post stable whether its set or not.
How to mix cement to make a mortar or concrete mix.
Work it to the perfect concrete mix ratio.
Mortar mixes are often used dry for bedding fence posts.
This dry mix seems a lot easier than using the damp mix and would take a lot less time.
I have bought some old railway sleepers very heavy and i want to make a box out of them.
If the ground is damp the concrete will set without having to add water.
If the mixed concrete looks like the mix in step 9 it s ready to pour.
Allow to semi dry and then add the longest bits of wood into the ground.
I have bought the long screws to fix them together but i also want to fix the first one to the ground.
Otherwise mix in additional dry mix or water until you get the right consistency.
The surface of the paving must be completely dry.
Another thing im not sure on is the spacing to leave in between the slabs 5mm or 10mm.
Create a concrete mixture and lay this in the bottom of the trench around 50mm.
For the pointing i was going to leave the slabs to set for 24 hrs and then do another mix of damp mortar with ratio of 3 1 sand cement is this ok.
As this is the first time ive done this i am thinking the dry mix would be easier but is it going to set properly its only going to be for walking on.
Use a dry ish building sand plastering sand or if so desired a kiln dried jointing sand.
With the correct tools materials safety equipment and a bit of elbow grease you can make your own mortar or concrete mix ready to use for your next job.
Start building up subsequent layers with shorter lengths of wood.
Consequently this is a technique that is only really practical during the summer months.
Any residual dampness will cause the sand cement mix to stick and will probably result in a stain.