Typical concrete work requires mixing precise ratios of cement, sand, and gravel. Ready-mix concrete takes the guesswork out of do it yourself projects by packaging these ingredients together. With nothing more than water and a wheelbarrow, it’s possible to easily create lasting structures. If you’re planning to use concrete for an outdoor home improvement project, follow these tips to keep the work on track.

How to Create Successful Concrete Projects

1. Use Proper Personal Protection Equipment

The high pH of concrete causes skin irritation. As the material dries, it develops sharp edges that cut and scrape. Keep hands safe with sturdy waterproof gloves. These are easier to clean and won’t get saturated by wet cement.

Ready-mix concrete is a powder, and it can disperse into the air while being worked with. Protect your lungs and the soft tissue of the eyes by wearing a disposable face mask and safety goggles.

2. Focus on Consistency

Add enough water to reach a thick but moist consistency. Too much liquid will create concrete that is weak and prone to shrinking, while not adding enough will cause it to crumble and fall apart.

Use a bucket to measure the water. Start by adding two-thirds of the suggested quantity. Slowly fold in the remainder until it looks like a batch of cookie dough or thick oatmeal. When squeezed in your hand, it should be firm enough to hold its shape after you release it. If it gets too wet, add more ready-mix concrete until the consistency is correct.

3. Add A Personal Touch

Concrete is a bland material, but it’s easy to add unique touches. Decorative objects, such as coins, fossils, and buttons, can be pressed into it while it’s still soft. Coat them with a thin layer of pure silicone beforehand to make them removable, or leave them embedded for a mixed media approach.

Add color with powdered dye during the mixing process, or use an acid stain once the concrete has cured. Apply a sealer for a clean and polished finish.

If you need high-quality ready-mix concrete for a home improvement project, turn to Ideal Supplies in Ludlow, KY. Their experienced team has been serving the Greater Cincinnati area for over 50 years and is happy to offer tips and tricks to make do it yourself tasks more successful. With a reputation for stocking a wide variety of supplies at affordable prices, they have everything it takes to get your project rolling. Visit the store or call (859) 491-6666 to inquire about their bagged and bulk products. Learn more about their broad selection of goods online.