With the colourway of ‘millennial grey’ becoming more popular in design choices worldwide and setting social media alight, it’s no surprise that concrete is fast becoming one of the more popular material choices in landscaping. But whether you are using ready mix concrete or a mini mix concrete, there are a number of key things to consider before you jump in and start landscaping. 

1. Understanding different types of concrete

Ready mix concrete

Ready mix concrete is simply the term for concrete that is ready to go, meaning concrete that has been made in a site away from the place it is going to be laid. Typically this means concrete that will be made in a distribution factory and taken by a concrete mixer to be poured at the landscaping site. 

Mini mix concrete

Mini mix concrete is concrete in a mini mixer. These are specifically small concrete mixing trucks, designed to be able to get in small residential spaces where the larger sized industrial mixing trucks may have difficulty. 

These mini mixers are perfect for large landscaping projects like laying down a concrete slab in the back garden, as they allow the workers access to industrial tools without the need for disturbing the whole block and cutting off access to driveways, or making a mess of a fence. 

Dry bagged ‘ready mix’

Dry bagged ‘ready mix’ concrete is concrete powder that is ready to have the correct amount of water mixed into it, and then must be stirred to the right consistency, laid, and set. This application is usually best for smaller applications, like setting a post in place. The most important consideration here is making sure there are no pockets of dry concrete as these will not set. 

2. Planning and design considerations

Accessing the space

Access to the space is an important consideration, as to deliver the concrete to the place it is needed, the workers must be able to either get the mini mixer in or use dry concrete. The mini mixers have long extendable arms that can help to deliver concrete, so if the area you are trying to concrete is difficult to access, connect with our team!

Design Aesthetics

Another consideration is the aesthetics of the concrete design. Concrete might be seen as boring, but it can actually be very beautiful. You can have designs carved into the concrete, which can be set as stone, or you can have hands and feet set in as family reminders. 

Think about how you want to use the space, and then consider what designs might benefit that space, and try to make it both beautiful and functional. 

3. Preparing the site properly

Clearing the area

Before you set down concrete, you need to make sure that you completely clear the area. This includes taking off any layers of earth and compacting down the dirt underneath until you have a solid and flat layer. Make sure to use a level so that the area is flat, with a slight tilt to allow for drainage. 

Subbase installation

Underneath concrete there needs to be a subbase. This usually consists of gravel, crushed rocks and sand. This helps to reduce the concrete heaving and helps to keep the concrete stable and well-drained. 

Drainage

In addition to the subbase, you should also have a drainage solution. Have a drain set into your plan for the concrete, and set the drain somewhere in the lowest part of the concrete. This can be done by using a drainage channel to funnel water towards the lowest section, to flow away from the rest of the concrete.

4. Mixing and pouring techniques

Mixing methods

It is very important to mix the concrete to ensure there are no dry sections. To ensure a proper mix, it may be best to go with the experts, and use a mini mixer, or ask a professional landscaper for assistance. 

Pouring methods

To get the best finish, you’ll need to pour slowly and smoothly and glide with a trowel over the top of the concrete so the top is flat. You may also want to use a concrete vibrator to get all the air pockets out of the concrete to avoid potential cracks or weakness. 

5. Curing and Maintenance

Curing Process

The curing process for the concrete will depend on the weather, the type of concrete mix used, and the temperature. It is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as well as insulate the concrete from any extreme weather events by covering it (without touching the wet concrete)!

Maintenance 

Concrete should be cleaned at least once to twice per year, as this will help to get rid of any salt or dirt building up on the surface. It can also be sealed, which helps to protect the concrete and prevent cracks. 

6. Safety Precautions

Working with concrete can be dangerous, as prolonged contact between the skin and wet concrete can cause irritation and chemical burns. When in doubt, leave the hard work to the experts and call in the professionals to do your concrete landscaping!

Whether you’re refreshing your driveway or creating a new, inviting space in your backyard, there are several key considerations to make before diving in. From the type of concrete you use to the application and safety precautions, ensure you have all bases covered for optimal results.