how long for concrete set?

[ss]

Concreted in a few wooden posts today (4x4), self mix 6:1 how long before I can put the rails on and start thumping nails in to them so I dont loosen the posts.

[Tim Watts]

Dry or wet mix? If dry, did you pack it in solid with a pummelling thingy?

If dry and yes, straight away.

If you used wet 6:1 I would give it 2-3 days as it's not a strong mix.

[ss]

It was wet, actually I will be using screws which should have less impact on the posts (just me being melodramatic) but I will leave for 3 days in any case. I will use the three days to `paint` the slats and rails

[The Natural Philosopher]

36 hrs in this wether

to be safe

[Tim Watts]

OK - If screws, and you are not going to dong the posts about excessively, 24 hours...

It will be a solid mass by then, just not a very strong solid mass which means if you start beating the posts up, you might just crack the block and get a sloppy post.

Dry mix rammed solid is actually quite firm immediately.

[ss]

Thanks for the info.

[meow2222]

IME 6:1 has no strength until day 3, so at least that long.

NT

[Rick Hughes]

keep adding water ... it will help the set, don't let it dry out

Once it goes away from 'green' its into 2nd stage ( 72 Hrs+)and you are fine ... just don't go nut for at least 5 days.