Shaw's pre-mixed sand is a blend of concrete sand and cement that is ideal for use by the handy-person or professional. Uses include thin overlays (10mm to 50mm) on existing concrete, re-surfacing or leveling sidewalks and steps, parging, grouting drain tiles, laying flagstone, filling tree cavities, and decorative garden projects. Shaw Sand Mix can also be troweled to form fine edges.
Shaw Sand Mix is available in 25kg bags and is blended to meet or exceed C387 standards. Shaw's Sand Mix is available at building supply and hardware stores.
Empty the bag contents into a mixer, water tight pan, or onto a hard, smooth surface. Add water, a little at a time, while mixing thoroughly to provide the desired consistency. Avoid a runny mixture. After reaching desired workability, place in pre-dampened forms, tamp mix with a rod or stick and tap forms gently. Level work with a straight edge. Allow to stiffen noticeably before troweling. Use a steel trowel for a smooth finish, a wooden float for a rough finish, or a broom or brush for a textured effect, To match the colour of aged concrete, add white latex paint in small quantities.
For best bonding between the old concrete base and the topping, remove all dirt, dust, and other debris from the old concrete surface using one of the following methods:
Wipe clean the scratched surface and soak the old concrete base for at least one hour before laying down the topping. Remove any access water and for best results, apply a bonding agent on top of the old concrete base. Before the bonding agent has hardened, mix the Shaw Sand Mix to the desired workability and apply, levelling the topping with a straight edge board.
Do not use for 24 hours. For the most durable surface, keep wet for the first few days. Use above 2°C. Keep from freezing.
