Concrete mixers are amazing machines; they have directly contributed to our societal and infrastructural development. They have revolutionised the way construction teams and DIY builders work with concrete, not only by speeding up the process of mixing but also by improving the consistency of every batch. It is also through the consistency of the concrete mixer that we have been able to use modern smart concrete types that heal themselves, are water resistant, and boast a myriad of other useful characteristics.

 

When one thinks of powerful mixers, it is instantly assumed that they are restricted to large construction projects like dams, roads, or bridges. However, with the development of these machines and smaller, more compact models introduced into the market, they have become accessible to the everyday consumer as well. At BS Power, we are proud to bring professional-quality mixers to our clients all over South Africa; whatever their needs, whether they are simply working at home or changing the landscape of the country.

 

You may be wondering whether buying a mixer for home projects is worth it. In this article, we want to show you that it is. It is true that they are an investment, but there are many projects around the home that majorly benefit from the use of a concrete mixer. So below, let us review a few of the most popular DIY projects around the home that, to some extent, require a mixer to perform the task properly. In this way, we hope to convince you of the value of owning your very own machine.

 

Concrete Patios

 

In South Africa, there are a few outdoor activities that we all like to do, no matter where you live in the country. One of these many activities includes soaking up the country’s gorgeous weather while enjoying a classic braai. It is part of our cultural heritage and something that almost every South African has experienced at some point in their life.

 

The best way to enjoy an outdoor braai is on an amazing patio. Not only does a patio increase your usable outdoor space, but it also elevates your outdoor spaces by providing an excellent place for people to enjoy themselves outdoors. So, let’s look at how you may construct your very own one by yourself, using concrete mixers to get the job done properly.

 

Step-by-step Instructions Using Concrete Mixers

 

The first step to building your very own outdoor patio is to do some planning. The best way to plan for patio construction is to mark out the space you wish to install the patio, using rope and pegs. After you have marked the area out, you need to dig out this space. Consult an experienced builder or refer to online guides if you are unsure about the depth.

 

Although concrete is a strong building material, when it comes to expansive outdoor construction, it is best to reinforce your foundations. The best way to add a bit of support to your patio is by laying either gravel or rebar down in the hole you have dug in the previous step.

 

Now that all the preparations are complete, it is time to get the concrete mixers running. It may take some time to work out how much concrete you are going to need, but once you are certain, be sure to mix to the ratios provided at the back of any concrete bag. The mixer makes these mixtures incredibly quickly and consistently.

 

Make sure you are using enough concrete to easily fill up the dug-out hole. Make sure you level out the concrete after you pour it in and that the patio floor is level throughout the building when you’re finished. Give it time to cure, or properly dry, and then enjoy.

 

Concrete Planters

 

For many South Africans, one of the greatest joys in life is tending to their gardens. There is something truly special about watching a flowering vegetable or fruit plant grow and knowing that you are the one that nurtured it. In this country, we are extremely lucky to have such a wide variety of flora to choose from while having the weather and conditions to grow it without too many added protections.

 

One thing most gardeners know is that you can’t simply plant a small seedling straight into the ground. Rather, it is critical to nurture it in a pot or planter with concentrated care, water, and nutrients. Only once there are developed roots can you transplant it straight into the ground. With this in mind, let us find out how concrete mixers can help us with our gardening through the DIY construction of concrete planters.

 

Step-by-step Instructions Using Concrete Mixers

 

The first thing you are going to need to do to make a great set of concrete planters is to plan out what sort of planters you want. With the right mould, it is possible to make concrete planters in a variety of shapes and sizes, depending on what you plan to plant in them. Remember, when making a mould, you need to create an outer and inner mould between which you will pour your concrete.

 

Now you are ready to fetch your mixer and begin mixing concrete. Unlike the other projects discussed in this article, the planter will not require large amounts of concrete, but using a mixer is still advantageous, as you can be certain of a smoother and more well mixed batch of concrete than if you had mixed it manually. You can even make use of materials like perlite or vermiculite to mix a lighter batch of concrete, ensuring that you will be able to easily transport your planters all over the garden.

 

Now you can pour the concrete into the mould; make sure that you are pouring in the space between the outer and inner mould. It is important to ensure that while you are throwing the concrete in, that both sides of the mould are held firm and do not move around too much as this could warp the planter. Allow it to dry properly; it is recommended that you leave it for a few days. After which you can carefully remove the mould and begin to plant to your heart’s content.

 

 

Driveways

 

When one thinks about buying a new home, it is almost a given that the property will come with a driveway. Although this may be true in most major urban settlements, one may find that in smaller towns or more rural settlements across the country, a driveway is not a given. Driveways are advantageous for a number of reasons; not only do they offer added accessibility to your home, but they are also significantly safer than street parking. They can even raise the value of your property if you have them installed after the fact.

 

Whether you already have a driveway but want to create extra parking space by adding onto it, or if you are looking to improve your curb appeal by incorporating a driveway, we at BS Power believe it is a smart choice to install one. But don’t spend lots of money hiring someone else to install it for you; rather, do it yourself by following the simple steps below while using your mixer.

 

Step-by-step Instructions Using Concrete Mixers

 

Driveways usually connect your property to a public road. Therefore, when marking out your driveway, you may need to get some sort of municipal confirmation. If you are all caught up legally, the next step is to make sure that while laying out markers for your driveway that you are considering several factors.

 

These include the breadth and size of the vehicle that will use this space; also, think about whether one or more cars will be placed into the driveway. These factors can help you decide on the ideal size that will work for your property. Once everything is clearly marked out using pegs and rope, you can begin to dig. Remember that you will not need to dig as deep as if you are constructing a patio or outdoor shed but seek some advice online to find a depth that works for your needs.

 

Driveways, out of all the projects discussed here, will probably need the largest amount of concrete. Realistically, you will need a concrete mixer to create a mix that is strong enough not to crack under the constant weight of the vehicles. It is also important to note that when throwing the concrete into the dug-out space that you level it out, this is critical for a smooth driveway.

 

Once the driveway is completely filled with concrete, make sure to use a tool to make joints in equidistant lengths along the driveway. These joints allow the concrete to expand and contract without cracking.

 

Garden Furniture

 

The final project we at BS Power thought would be fun to discuss here is the creation of outdoor furniture like concrete benches. Benches and other garden furniture can help liven up an outdoor space and provide character that extends from the interior to the outdoors.

 

Modern outdoor furniture using concrete has grown in popularity, and if you want to purchase new furniture from a store, you can expect to pay a rather hefty sum. Rather than spend all that money, just wheel out your concrete mixer and follow these easy instructions to make your very own.

 

Step-by-step Instructions Using Concrete Mixers

 

There is a lot of fun to be had when making garden furniture. You can incorporate your own tastes and sensibilities right from the beginning by creating moulds that suit your tastes from either plastic or wood. There are even some places where you can buy pre-made moulds for a great price when compared to buying the furniture outright.

 

The next steps are very easy; simply use a concrete mix that is extra strong; this will not only support different weights on your furniture but will also ensure its longevity. Once you have poured it into the moulds, make sure to compact it properly and check to make sure you have gotten rid of air bubbles, as this can lead to cracks.

 

Let the concrete cure, afterwards remove the moulds, and finally sand down the concrete for a smooth finish. Now you can lounge in the sun on your very own garden furniture.

 

 

BS Power: The Home Of Reliable Mixers

 

Whatever you build, whether it be a patio, driveway, garden planter, or garden furniture, a mixer can be of incredible use to you. So don’t hesitate any longer; head over to our website today and explore our wide range of industry-leading mixer options; you are sure to find a machine that fits your every need.