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Concrete is the material of choice for a wide variety of residential projects. It’s made using just three ingredients, which includes aggregates, Portland cement, and water. This means it’s relatively simple to mix on your own without having to buy or rent a cement mixer. Ready mix concrete is available at most hardware stores and provides the easiest and most economical way to get the material you need to make minor repairs around the house. Follow the steps below to hand mix concrete in a bucket successfully. 

How to Mix Concrete by Hand

1. Get Your Supplies Together

First, make sure that you have all of the supplies necessary to complete the job. You’ll need a big bucket, bags of ready mix concrete, a garden hoe or shovel, and water. Generally, a watering can is preferred over a hose to avoid adding in too much water. Also, it’s recommended you wear long sleeves and pants, gloves, and safety glasses to protect your skin and eyes.

2. Mix Water & Dry Materials 

ready mix concreteNext, pour the recommended amount of ready mix concrete for your project into the bucket. Since the cement and aggregates come packaged with the appropriate measurements, all you need to do is add the right amount of water. Pour the liquid in a little at a time as you mix it with the dry material. Continue mixing it with the hoe or shovel to ensure it has absorbed all of the powder.

3. Blend for the Right Consistency

It’s important to make sure your concrete is the correct consistency so that it turns out as durable and long-lasting as possible. The key is to keep blending the powder and water together until the mixture is smooth and moldable. If you haven’t put in enough water, it will be too stiff and lumpy. If your mixture gets too runny, add a bit more dry material to harden it up.

4. Clean off Your Tools

Before you move on to pouring your concrete, leave the tools you used soaking in water. If you allow the concrete to harden on them, it may be impossible to remove it later. Additionally, when cleaning your bucket, hoe, or shovel, be sure you do so away from any drains to prevent active concrete from getting into your plumbing system.

 

If you’re in need of high-quality and affordable ready mix concrete for your next household project, turn to Ideal Supplies in Ludlow, KY. This hardware store has been serving customers throughout Kenton County and the greater Cincinnati, OH, area for more than 50 years. They carry a large selection of products, and their knowledgeable and friendly staff will help you find the most suitable materials for any job. Call (859) 491-6666 to inquire about their current inventory, or visit them online for more information on what they offer.

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