i want to create a concrete pattern imprinted for my garden patio?
i do not want to use ready mix concrete i want to use the bags and mix the concrete myself in a mixer. what is the best cement to use so that it will go hard on the top and will be hardwareing. And what grade of sand should i use
When mixing my own concrete I buy in a Premixed concrete shingle(Has sand/aggregete mixed) and use portland cement.
With imprinted concrete you will need the imprint mats and a release agent to stop mats sticking to concrete(powder ones will stain plain concrete.
When we were doing imprinted concrete(usually coloured) the concrete had to be laid quickly then the dye thrown over wet concrete and trowelled in. The dye contains a hardner which sets the top quicker than underneath so that you can get on concrete with imprint mats. Before imprinting we throw a powder release agent over immediate area then imprint as you work your way over concrete
About 2 days later wash the concrete with soapy water and soft broom. Then acid wash No more than 20:1 brush around with soft broom, ensure surface is wet first. When fully dry seal with a suitable sealer
Recommend you talk to a qualified contracter first
When mixing my own concrete I buy in a Premixed concrete shingle(Has sand/aggregete mixed) and use portland cement.
With imprinted concrete you will need the imprint mats and a release agent to stop mats sticking to concrete(powder ones will stain plain concrete.
When we were doing imprinted concrete(usually coloured) the concrete had to be laid quickly then the dye thrown over wet concrete and trowelled in. The dye contains a hardner which sets the top quicker than underneath so that you can get on concrete with imprint mats. Before imprinting we throw a powder release agent over immediate area then imprint as you work your way over concrete
About 2 days later wash the concrete with soapy water and soft broom. Then acid wash No more than 20:1 brush around with soft broom, ensure surface is wet first. When fully dry seal with a suitable sealer
Recommend you talk to a qualified contracter first
References :
Landscaper/Nurseryman
6 yrs exp with imprinted concrete