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Recomended Mix Proportions

Class

Cement:Sand:Aggregates
Ratios

Applications

40

1 : 1: 2

High strength concrete, water retaining, multi-story buildings, slip form construction

30

1: 1.5: 2

Floor slabs, columns and load bearing structural concrete

25

1: 1.5 : 3

Concrete that is used in construction of ordinary buildings i.e. generally not exceeding three floors

20

1 : 2: 4

15

1: 3 : 6

Non structural concrete applications, such as blinding layer and mass concrete

Motar

1: (4-6) Cement: sand

Laying bricks and plastering

Concrete Blocks

1: 6 Cement: sand

Walls

Note1: Use the same size container for measuring all the materials in a batch - see volume proportions above.

Note 2: The mix proportion suggested using 1:1:2 will be dependant on the quality of the coarse and fine aggregate used.

A few tips on building:

  • Use clean aggregates without dust, clay or other impurities.
  • Store aggregates and sand on a clean hard surface to avoid mud/dirt
  • Water fit for drinking is adequate for mixing. Surfaces of formwork/ shuttering that will be in contact with concrete should be well oiled prior to placing.
  • Testing of concrete constituents and reinforcement should be done before delivery. Trial mixes should also be done and approved.
  • Proper and controlled batching is important to avoid segregation during transfer.
  • Concrete should not be dropped from over 1m height to prevent segregation of the mix and bubbles formation.
  • Concrete should be well compacted to remove air bubbles and cavities.
  • Concrete should be cured i.e. kept in a continuously moist condition for several days.
  • Concrete or plaster should be well-cured (kept wet) 3-4 times a day for at least 7 days to prevent cracking. Spray gently or protect with plastic sheets (or wet sacks) to prevent rapid drying.
  • Correct curing increases impermeability, durability and decreases shrinkage
    Reinforcement
  • Should be stacked off the ground to avoid dirt/mud
  • Should be kept free from mud, oil, paint and loose rust
  • During fixing they should be fixed in position with soft wire.
  • Ends to be cut off or bent inwards to prevent staining. Provide adequate cover.

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