How to make your own concrete on site: A comprehensive guide

carmix mobile batch plants makin concrete onsite

Introduction

For landscapers, contractors, and hardscapers, the ability to make your own concrete on-site offers a host of advantages. Not only can you ensure the quality and consistency of the mix, but you can also realize significant cost savings and environmental benefits. Whether you’re working on a small backyard project or a large construction site, understanding the ins and outs of concrete mixing can set you up for success.

wet-mix concrete batch plant — Ready-mix concrete plants can be expensive to order from your local plant

Materials Needed for Making Concrete

Creating high-quality concrete requires the right materials:

Aggregates: These include sand, gravel, or crushed stone. The quality of the aggregates is crucial for the strength and durability of the concrete.
Cement: Acts as the binding agent in the mix. Choose a reputable brand to ensure consistency. To find out more about the difference between concrete and cement - check out this blog.
Water: Must be clean and free from impurities. The water-to-cement ratio is critical for the final product's strength and durability.

cement, sand and aggregates bins used to make concrete — Concrete is made from different compnents including sand, cement and aggregates

The Concrete Mixing Process: Step-by-Step

1. Proportioning

Proper proportioning of the materials is essential. The standard mix ratio is one part cement, two parts sand, and three parts gravel, with a water-to-cement ratio of about 0.5. Adjust these ratios depending on the specific requirements of your project.

2. Mixing Methods

Hand Mixing: Suitable for small projects. Mix the dry materials first, then gradually add water until the mix achieves the right consistency.
Machine Mixing: For larger projects, use concrete mixers. Add the dry materials first, then slowly add water. Mix until the concrete is uniform in color and texture.

making concrete by hand using a drill to mix — Small batches of concrete can be mixed by hand

Testing and Adjusting the Mix

Testing the concrete mix ensures it meets the required standards:

Slump Test: Measures the workability of the concrete. Use a slump cone to see how much the concrete slumps. Adjust the water content as needed.
Compression Test: Ensures the concrete can withstand the required loads. Collect samples and test them after curing for 7 and 28 days.

Wet Mix vs. Dry Mix

Understanding the differences between wet and dry mixes can help you choose the right method:

Wet Mix: Involves adding water to the aggregates and cement before transportation. Ideal for immediate use.
Dry Mix: The dry materials are mixed on-site with water. Offers more control over the final product.

Using a small concrete mixer onsite can save you from ordering from your local ready-mix facility

Why Make Your Own Concrete Onsite?

Making your own concrete onsite offers numerous benefits that can positively impact your construction projects. First and foremost, it allows for complete control over the quality and consistency of the mix, ensuring that the concrete meets the specific requirements of your project. This level of control can significantly enhance the structural integrity and longevity of the final product. Additionally, onsite mixing can lead to cost savings by eliminating the need for transporting ready-mix concrete, thereby reducing fuel consumption and delivery fees. This practice is also environmentally friendly, as it minimizes waste and allows for the use of local materials, further decreasing the project's carbon footprint. Overall, producing your own concrete onsite can provide improved quality, cost-efficiency, and sustainability for any construction endeavor.

Using batch plants for your onsite op and mobile mixers can streamline the concrete mixing process:

Concrete Batch Plants: Machinery Partner offers a range of batch plants ideal for large projects, ensuring consistent quality and efficiency.
Carmix Self-Loading Mobile Mixing Plant: These versatile machines combine transportation, mixing, and pouring, making them ideal for remote sites.

Blog post image — Carmix mobile batch plants are available from Machinery Partner

Can Concrete be Recycled?

Concrete is 100% recyclable, offering additional environmental benefits:

Using a Crusher: Break down old concrete into usable materials for base and fill. This not only reduces waste but also saves on material costs.
For more information, check out our detailed post on recycling concrete and using crushers.

Conclusion

Making your own concrete on-site can significantly benefit your landscaping or construction projects. By understanding the materials, mixing process, and the advantages of batch plants and mobile mixers, you can achieve high-quality results while saving money and reducing your environmental impact. Machinery Partner are here to help - contact us for all your machinery needs!

Ready to get started? Explore the range of concrete batch plants from Machinery Partner to find the perfect solution for your needs. And don't forget to read our article on the differences between concrete and cement.

Written by Toyah Warnock