Working With Concrete

Concrete is the ideal material for foundations because it is strong, durable, cheap, easy to work with, and won’t decay when placed in the ground. Concrete is in fact the most used material for construction in the world and has been in use since the age of the Roman Empire. Concrete is a mixture of aggregate (sand and gravel) combined with water and cement. Depending on the ratio of these parts the concrete can be stronger or weaker. Concrete hardens in a process known as hydration which is caused by the reaction between water and cement. Adding too much water can weaken the concrete.

For most deck projects it is practical to buy bags of premixed concrete that are prepared by adding water and mixing. You can use a wheelbarrow and mix with a hoe to a consistency that is able to move and fill voids but is not too wet and soupy. Hoes work better for mixing concrete than shovels. Renting a mixer can reduce your labor time by half. Be sure to follow the instructions listed on the packaging. It is possible to make your own concrete mix by combining 3 parts gravel, 2 parts sand, and 1 part cement but this requires more knowledge and skill than using premixed bags. Your footing should be at least as thick as it is wide at its base. The ideal temperature for pouring concrete is between 50-90 degrees F.