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10 July 2025 | Stewart Brothers Concrete

What Concrete Mix Should You Use for Your DIY Project?

When mixing concrete for DIY, getting the ratio right is essential for a strong, durable finish. Concrete comprises cement, sand, coarse aggregate (gravel or crushed stone), and water

1. Standard Concrete Mix Ratios

Here are the typical ratios used for various home projects:

  • 1 : 2 : 4 (C20 mix) – 1 part cement, 2 parts sand, and 4 parts coarse aggregate
    Medium-strength and robust, ideal for garden paths, shed bases, fence posts, and light foundations
  • 1 : 2 : 3 – A slightly stronger variant (C25), suitable for garage or shed floors .
  • 1 : 1.5 : 2.5 – A high-strength mix (approx. C30) used for steps, driveways, and weather-exposed areas

Alternatively, if using ballast (a sand-gravel blend), standard guidelines include:

  • 1 part cement + 4 parts ballast for a medium-strength finish.
  • 1 part cement + 5 parts ballast for everyday use

2. Choosing the Right Mix for Your Project

Project Type

Recommended Mix

Fence posts, stepping stones, paths

C20 (1:2:4)

Shed/garage floor, heavy walkways

1:2:3 or ballast mix

Driveways, paving, steps

1:1.5:2.5

Structural slabs, strong foundations

C25–C30 or higher

  • C20 (1:2:4) delivers ~20 MPa after 28 days and is perfect for ordinary domestic uses
  • C25–C30 mixes (1:2:3 or 1:1.5:2.5) provide extra strength for hardstanding areas, steps, and light vehicle use

 3. Water and Workability

Water content significantly affects strength and handling. Too much water weakens the concrete; too little makes it tough to work with diy.com. Start with dry ingredients, then add water gradually, aiming for a firm, moist consistency—not soupy.


 4. Mixing and Measuring Tips

  • Measure by volume using identical buckets or shovel scoops for consistency
  • Mix dry ingredients first, then add water slowly, mixing thoroughly .
  • For quantities under 1 m³, hand mixing works fine. Above that, consider a powered mixer or ready-mix delivery

5. Reinforcement & Curing

  • Add reinforcing mesh for larger slabs or where cracking is a concern
  • Ensure proper curing: mist the surface or cover with plastic to keep the concrete moist for several days—it enhances strength and durability

6. Estimating Quantities

  1. Calculate volume: Length × width × depth (in metres).
  2. Using your chosen mix ratio, apportion cement, sand, and aggregate accordingly.
  3. Optionally, use an online concrete calculator to convert volumes into bag counts

Summary

  • C20 (1:2:4) is your go-to general-purpose mix.
  • For heavier loads or traffic, upgrade to 1:2:3 or 1:1.5:2.5.
  • Keep water controlled, consider using reinforcing mesh, and cure properly for best results.
  • Mix by volume and use consistent measuring tools for a reliable DIY concrete job.

With the right mix and method, your DIY concrete project will be strong, long-lasting, and professionally finished. Let me know if you’d like help with mixing calculators, tool guidance, or specifics for your project!


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