ReadiMix vs. DIY

David WE Roberts · 2010-01-26T12:18:55+00:00

Just doing the sums for the concrete 3.5 cubic metres.Previously on this channel some people recommended just getting a mixer in and doing it by hand.I also asssumed this was a viable option if I wanted some extra exercise (I have worked big site mixers in my youth).Eastern Concrete mix on site C20 mix (pay for what you use) estimate £386.Using to estimate raw materials:Jewsons:52 * 25kg bags cement £210.80 inc.7 bags ballast (2/3 cu metre) £296.10 inc.Total £507.90 inc.This does not include the mixer hire which is likely to be another £50.I could reduce the cost of the ballast by having a bulk tipper load, but do I want a tipper backing up onto my block paved drive?Also, the mix on site company extimated 45 minutes to barrow the 3.5 cu.m. (which seems a trifle optimistic to me for a single barrow, although they suggested that the driver might help). Anything above 90 mins would cause them problems with their schedule.I am now wondering how much effort is required to level and tamp the load as it is barrowed through.Does the team think this time frame is reasonable?CheersDave ROh, and there is another blast of cold air, frost, sleet, snow etc. forecast for the next few weeks.Not the best weather for laying concrete or building block walls.

ReadiMix vs. DIY

Jan 26, 2010 43 Replies

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GB 16 years ago

Have I misunderstood? You can't mean the perimeter is 400mm. Do you want to say what the measurements are?

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Phil L 16 years ago

He means the outer 400mm all around the perimeter is to be thickened to

200mm deep, rather than the 100mm of the main slab, this is where the walls are to be built.

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GB 16 years ago

Oops. Sorry.

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David WE Roberts 16 years ago

Now wondering (revisiting discarded options) if I can construct a suitable scaffold board run across the grass to enable me to use a small dumper truck.

If the Jewson offer of £80 for a day is still available then it is cheaper than having the company barrow for me, and should shift the concrete much faster than barrowing.

Don't really want to reduce my abused grass to a rutted quagmire.

However, this is starting to look more attractive.

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