Electric cement mixer How to mix & finish off

[Diyisfun]

Just about to mix concrete for greenhouse base.
I have been lent a small electric mixer.
I know I want a 6:1 mix.
Do I load the mixer in any order ie water 1st, ballast 1st etc.

 

[paul_v]

water first, cement 2nd, ballast 3rd then top up with water if nessacery

 

[Diyisfun]

many thanks ...here goes

 

[paul_v]

remember though when loading the mixer a shovel of ballast will heap up more than a shovel of cement so you might need to put 1.5 - 2 shovels of cement in to get the right ratio.

Alternativly you could measure using buckets

hope that made sense

 

[tony1851]

To add; always start the mixer before adding any materials. You'll strain the motor if you attempt to start it when full.

 

[Diyisfun]

I mixed it by volume.
Anyway I layed it.
I poured it roughly to cover the area 6' x 6', then used a length of wood to level it wasnt easy, I think I should have leveled it as I laid it.
Is that it now just wait till it sets?

 

[paul_v]

you can leave it a few hours to firm up a bit then trowel it off to get a smoother finish or just leave it as it is.

 

[Diyisfun]

you can leave it a few hours to firm up a bit then trowel it off to get a smoother finish or just leave it as it is.

Thanks, its only a greenhouse so I will leave it.
When can I remove shuttering?

 

[paul_v]

assuming the concrete was layed 3-4 inches thick it should be hard enough for you to be able to remove the shuttering in a couple of days.

It will take about month to harden up properly but you should be able to walk on it without marking it by sunday or monday

 

[Diyisfun]

Thanks to all.
Rain wasnt forcast, but just had heavy shower, whilst I was out. The dog has also had a walk on it.

 

[tony1851]

The dog has also had a walk on it.

Dog p*e is well known for speeding the setting process. We use it all the time in Manchester.