Mixing Concrete & Mixers

[utfd702]

First off let me say this, Great Forum - many helpful posts.

I am considering putting in a concrete slab under my deck (walk-out basement). I am having trouble finding resources on mixing.
My question is, how much dry materials are needed to produce 1 yard of concrete. I was anticipating a 1:2:3 mix.

If mixing myself, is there a fiber-mesh addative avalable?

The "home owners special" mixers that I see on E-bay all the time - 5 cu. ft. capacity electric blah, blah, blah. Are they worthwhile?

I have several small projects to tackle and was thinking of purchasing one rather than making several trips to the rental yard.

[CurtisS]

For small jobs I have always just purchased bags of pre-mixed Quickcrete and rented a portable mixer that can handle 2 60lbs bags.. It is easier to get a consistent mix that way. If you do alot of small jobs it may be worth buying an inexpensive mixer versus renting (or find someone who wants to split the cost of a new one).

Ciao!

CurtisS