Sable Marco® Concrete Mix

12 months in original unopened bag

Store in a dry, covered area protected from the elements. If the product has been in contact with water or moisture or contains hardened lumps, do not use it.

2,100 kg/m³ (131 lb/ft³)

12

Meets or exceeds strength requirements of ASTM C 387 when used as directed. All values are obtained under laboratory conditions.

3.5 L (0.92 US gal) of clean, potable water per 30 kg (66 lb) bag 

Between 5 °C (40 °F) and 30 °C (86 °F) 

Between 5 °C (40 °F) and 30 °C (86 °F) 

Between 5 °C (40 °F) and 30 °C (86 °F) 

Approx. 0.014 m³ (0.5 ft³) per 30 kg (66 lb) bag

Surfaces to be repaired must be clean and free of dirt, dust, grease, or other contaminants. Remove all delaminated or unsound concrete by chipping with a hammer and chisel or using a stiff wire brush. Clean the area with potable water, leaving the substrate saturated but free of standing water. Highly porous concrete may require multiple wettings to achieve full saturation.

Pour the contents of the bag into a mortar box, wheelbarrow, or mechanical mixer. When mixing by hand, form a crater in the center for adding water. Add water gradually, up to 3.5 L (0.92 US gal) per 30 kg (66 lb) bag, until the desired consistency is achieved. Mix thoroughly until a uniform, workable mix is obtained. Avoid a soupy mix, as excess water reduces strength, durability, and may cause cracking. In cold weather, use warm water to accelerate setting; in hot weather, use cold water to slow it down.

Concrete repairs:

• Placing: After mixing, place and consolidate the concrete evenly within the repair area. Use a straight-edged board to level the surface by moving it in a sawing motion, removing excess material and filling low spots. Allow the concrete to set or wait until bleed water evaporates before proceeding with finishing. The time required will vary depending on weather conditions.

• Finishing: Once bleed water has evaporated, finish the surface as desired. For a smooth finish, use a wood, magnesium, or aluminum float. For a textured finish, use a broom or brush. When repairing over existing joints or cracks, tool a joint into the fresh mix above the existing joint using a jointer tool. The joint should be approximately half the depth of the repair. Note: Avoid finishing too early or overworking the concrete, as this may cause dusting, cracking, scaling, and a weak surface.

Setting posts:

Excavate the hole to the required depth, ensuring it extends below the frost line. Allow approximately 50 mm (2 in) clearance around the post. Position the post in the hole and pour the mixed concrete evenly around it. Use a level to ensure the post is properly aligned. Cross-brace the post securely while the concrete sets. Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24 hours before removing the bracing and backfilling.

New construction:

• Preparation: Excavate to the required depth to accommodate the base and concrete thickness. Ensure the subgrade is stable, well-compacted, and properly drained. Install standard formwork with a slight slope to direct surface water runoff. Apply a form release agent to all contact surfaces before placing the concrete.

• Mixing and Placing: Mix the concrete as directed. Pour into the forms and slightly overfill. Use a trowel along the edges to remove air pockets. Tap the forms gently to smooth the sides. Use a straight board to level the surface.

• Finishing: Smooth the surface with a float. Stop when bleed water appears. After the water dries, finish as needed, use a float for a smooth surface or a broom for texture. Use an edging tool to shape the edges. Avoid overworking the surface.

• Jointing: Add joints to help control slabs cracking. Use a jointer while the concrete is soft or saw cut 6 to 18 hours after hardening. Joints should be about 1/5 the depth of the slab and spaced approximately every 2.4 m (8 ft).

Curing involves maintaining the right temperature and humidity levels. Wait for the new material to set, until the surface is hard to the touch. Then keep the material damp or cover it with a polyethylene sheet to prevent the mixing water from evaporating for at least 3 days. Protect from frost for at least 24 hours.

Clean all tools and equipment immediately after use with water. Once hardened, material can only be removed mechanically.