Do it Yourself: Re: [DIY] Cement Mix vs Mason Mix

21 August 2013

Re: [DIY] Cement Mix vs Mason Mix

Yes it will work, just be sure to pack them well. Depending on the height above ground level it is still a good idea to add some cross bracing. Putting a 10 inch or so concrete base in the bottom of each is a good idea to add to the width of the load bearing surface. Let the concrete set be fore setting the posts. You can also extend the life of your posts if you will coat each ones buried surface with roof coat. Some folks get a 5 gallon bucket and let each post sit on end for an hour or so in the coating brush coating the length of the post up to a few inches above ground level before ground setting. The roof coat will penetrate the end grain of the post which is the most vulnerable to rot and bug infestation.

Dale in the Flatlands. "Why waste time learning when ignorance is instantaneous."

John Moss wrote:

Good info. Thanks Dale. The deck will be free-standing with 6x6x12 PT posts. Will the crushed rock method work for those?

On Tue, Aug 20, 2013 at 4:33 PM, Dale S <dalu@hbcomm.net> wrote:

The main difference is the rock or gravel in the concrete, however the Mason Mix may contain lime and for strength add a little Portland. You can use either one to set posts and each will hold the water and rot the posts about as fast as the other. Set posts by packing rock around them and the water will be able to drain away making the posts last much longer. All the concrete does is increase the retaliative size of the post, whereas a good back filling and packing job will work about as well especially if crushed rock is used.

Dale in the Flatlands. "Why waste time learning when ignorance is instantaneous."
John Moss wrote:

What's the difference between Concrete Mix and Mason Mix? Can Mason Mix be used to set deck posts? I got some free bags of Mason Mix off CraigsList and was wondering of I can use it for setting deck posts.

Thanks,

John