Mixing concrete by hand

[chareeseeee]

I had a small slab to pour for a trash can pad and decided to mix it in a wheelbarrow instead of calling a truck. My back is definitely feeling it today but I saved a lot of money on short load fees. The key is getting the water amount just right so it is not too soupy to finish. Do you still mix the small stuff by hand or do you own a portable electric mixer?

 

[dawndusk01]

I prefer to use a mixing tub on the ground rather than a wheelbarrow. It is much more stable and you can get more leverage when you are pulling the heavy wet mud. A wheelbarrow always feels like it wants to tip over when you get to the third bag.

 

[speed fighter]

For a small pad like that I always buy the high-strength bags so I don't have to worry about cracking. It only costs a few dollars more but it gives the client a much better product. I also throw in a bit of fiber mesh if I have a partial bag left over from another job.

 

[bigbitez]

I stopped mixing by hand once I turned forty and bought a small electric mixer. It fits in the back of the truck and it does the hard work while I am setting up the forms. It saves my back for the actual finishing and floating.