CONCRETE

Once you get into larger DIY jobs, it may be time to learn how to work with cement and concrete. Concrete is used for projects ranging from small DIY crafts and crack repair to setting fence posts and laying foundation pads. Cement is an element of concrete — they're not the same thing. Both cement and concrete are distinct from asphalt.

There are different types of concrete mix for various jobs. Some are extremely strong, while others have better workability. They may take a long time to cure or be formulated to dry quickly. Match the cement mix or concrete type to your project. Whether you choose a high-strength concrete, a ready-mix concrete, or another option, use concrete mixers to get an evenly mixed batch.

Concrete Types: Here are the basics on different types of concrete:

• Fast-setting concrete works for setting posts. It's ideal for mailboxes, fences, flagpoles, or other posts that stand vertically. It usually dries in 20-40 minutes.
• High-strength concrete, also called commercial-grade concrete, is made to support a large amount of weight. It's used when pouring foundations, footers, and bases.
• All-purpose concrete works for a variety of uses. It's handy for concrete repair work, setting posts, and creating stairs and sidewalks.
• Ready-mix concrete is a blend of cement and other elements that's activated by water. That's all you need to add to create a quality batch of concrete. Ready-mixed concrete simplifies the prep work for concrete jobs. It's reliable and used by professionals as well as DIYers.

Take your concrete projects to the next level by finding out how to stain concrete. You can also learn how to pour it into concrete forms to make cast concrete bricks, stamp designs into it, or properly shape it with concrete tools. Enhance the concrete to suit your needs using concrete aggregates or additives to strengthen it.

When you're mixing, pouring, or shaping concrete, remember to wear your safety equipment. Liquid concrete is extremely alkaline and can burn you if you're not careful. Suit up with protective eyewear, work gloves, and a properly fitted respirator.

Wash any concrete off your bare skin immediately. Should your gloves or other clothing get soaked through with a liquid concrete mix, change them, and wash your skin well. Don't let it dry on there, as it can eat through your clothing and give you concrete burn, also called cement burn.

After you've decided which type of concrete you need for your project, find out how much to buy with our concrete project calculator. For large projects, rent cement and mortar mixers to ensure your concrete job comes out how you envisioned it. Stop by our store or shop online to get your supplies today.