Concrete Mix

[brgguy]

I am building a pond out of concrete. I am using wire mesh for reinforsement and want to establish a suitable concrete mix. I was initially going to use 1 part portland cement,2parts sand and 3 parts gravel. If I eliminate the gravel and use 5 parts sand but keep the water to cement ratio low, say .45, will the concrete be just as strong?&nbsp;&nbsp;Will the concrete be waterproof? Can anyone recommend a good site on this?<br><br>Brgguy

 

[Imagineer]

You really don't need to use any reinforcement.&nbsp;&nbsp;This will be a &quot;slab-on-grade&quot; per se, with a nice uniform load.&nbsp;&nbsp;Reinforcement in SOG's is only needed for shear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Since you will have uniform loads on top and support on the bottom, you will have a miniscule amount of shear.&nbsp;&nbsp;Depending on the depth of your pond, a 4&quot;-6&quot; slab should do it.<br><br>As to the mix and being waterproof.&nbsp;&nbsp;Concrete is porous, it leaks.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some concretes leak slower than others but they still leak.&nbsp;&nbsp;I'd recommend using a sealant.&nbsp;&nbsp;Besides you can get the sealant in that pretty aqua-blue.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br> <p> Imagineer<br><a href=mailto: > </a><br><a href= > </a><br>