Many times, the average person uses the terms “cement” and “home inspector near me memphis” interchangeably without realizing that there is a difference. Even when the handyman refers to “cement,” there is often a question as to exactly what he means. Before going into the details on mixing and various projects, here is a definition of terms:
For most cement jobs – to set flagstones or patch a house foundation, you need 1 part of Portland cement to 2½” parts of clean, fine sand.
For concrete jobs, the proportion varies depending upon the use to which the concrete is put.
For mortar mixes – for playing brick or concrete block or repointing brick – use 1 part mortar cement or 1 part Portland cement with 10% lime added to 2½^” parts fine, clean sand plus water.
When doing any extensive mixing of your own cement or concrete, a measuring box is exceedingly helpful, especially when using large quantities. You can make this bottomless measuring box in just a few minutes and avoid counting the ingredients by the shovels-full.
Use ¾” plywood or 1″ thick lumber to make a box with four sides – a cubic foot – 12″ high, 12″ wide and 12″ deep. Secure the sides with screws set about 2″ apart. Two short lengths of 2×2 attached on the sides make it easy to move the measuring box about.
