Handyman Guide > Building Materials: Mixing Concrete

Mortar is used for laying bricks and concrete blocks. It is also used to repair cracks in concrete and for similar work. Mortar is made by mixing 1 part cement to 2 or 3 parts sand, depending upon how rich the mixture is to be. For average masonry work, 1 part cement to 3 parts sand will give a very satisfactory mortar.

The game general rules apply to mixing mortar as were set down for mixing concrete. As mortar cannot be applied as rapidly as concrete, only small amounts should be mixed at a time. A clean iron wheelbarrow or a solidly-built wooden box can be used for mixing, instead of a floor or platform.

After the sand and cement have been well mixed, add water slowly, stirring the mixture as it is added. The finished mortar should be soft enough to work but by no means watery. Do not let the mortar stand after it has been mixed or it will lose its strength.

CONCRETE FORMS

Concrete weighs about 125 pound per cubic foot, and the forms used for it must be solidly built if they are to stand this strain.

Green lumber is the best lumber from which to make the forms because it will not absorb moisture £rom the concrete and, consequently, is not liable to warp. If well-seasoned lumber is used, it should be coated with oil or tar paper to prevent the wood from soaking up moisture.

Plan the form so that very little cutting of the wood is necessary. In this way you will be able to use the same wood for many jobs. Construct the forms so that they can be taken apart easily and without damage to the wood or concrete. In this respect, it is better to use bolts, screws, and clamps, rather than nails. If nails are used, do not drive them in all the way. Leave enough of the head above the surface so it can be pulled out easily and quickly.

Tongued and grooved lumber does very well for the sides of the form, and 2 x 4 inch stock is suitable for the studding.

Take time to make certain that the form is as nearly perfect as possible before pouring the concrete. After the concrete has been poured, leave the forms in place until you are certain that the concrete is hard. Do not make the mistake of ruining a good concrete job by stripping off the forms too soon. The length of time that is necessary to cure concrete varies, but it is wise to wait at least ten days before removing the forms.


Continue to Concrete Blocks



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