Concrete Mix Guide

Mix Ratios Explained

A 1:2:4 mix means 1 part cement to 2 parts sand to 4 parts aggregate by volume. Higher cement content (1:1:2) gives stronger concrete but is more expensive and prone to shrinkage cracking. For most DIY domestic applications, C20 (1:2:4) is appropriate.

Water-Cement Ratio

The w/c ratio is the weight of water divided by the weight of cement. Lower = stronger. C20: w/c = 0.55. C25: w/c = 0.50. C30: w/c = 0.45. Adding excess water is the most common mistake — it weakens concrete significantly. Add water slowly until workable.

Consistency Check

Slump test: fill a cone mould, lift, measure slump. For domestic slabs, 75–100mm slump. For foundations, 50–75mm. For highly reinforced concrete, up to 125mm. Concrete that flows off the shovel is too wet.

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