Small concrete mixers are indispensable tools for contractors and DIY builders in South Africa offering the ability to achieve the kind of consistency
Small concrete mixers are indispensable tools for contractors and DIY builders in South Africa offering the ability to achieve the kind of consistency required for quality construction.
Small and medium sized concrete mixers fill the void between small shovel mixed concrete batches and the procurement of readymix concrete. When used right they have to significantly enhance concrete quality making them ideal for projects ranging from home renovations to small commercial builds.
Limitations of Hand Mixing
Mixing concrete with a shovel, while traditional, presents several challenges. Achieving a uniform mixture of cement, sand, stone and water is difficult and can lead to weak spots and compromised durability. Hand mixing also requires considerable time and labour, increasing the risk of errors and inefficiencies.
Concrete mixers eliminate these problems by automating the mixing process. Their rotating drum ensures even distribution of all ingredients, resulting in a uniform and durable mix that stays fresher for longer. Other key benefits include:
- Consistency: Mixers produce homogenous concrete, reducing the risk of weak areas in slabs and structures.
- Time and Labour Savings: Mixing large volumes quickly reduces manual labour and project timelines.
- Portability: Small mixers are easy to transport and ideal for various project sizes, from housing slabs to garden pathways.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Minimised waste and better concrete quality translate into long-term savings.
Popular Hardware and Building Suppliers in South Africa
South Africa boasts a wide range of suppliers offering concrete mixers for various needs. These include:
- Builders Warehouse: Known for affordable and versatile small mixers, with prices starting around R5,000 for entry-level electric units ideal for smaller projects.
- Makro: Offers compact and portable electric mixers for home use, often priced between R4,500 and R7,500.
- Adendorff Machinery Mart: Specialises in durable petrol and electric mixers with capacities ranging from 120 to 350 litres, perfect for medium-scale projects.
- Goscor Power Products: Provides robust 400-litre petrol and diesel-powered mixers, suited to heavy-duty tasks at construction sites.
- Coastal Hire: A practical choice for renting mixers for short-term projects, ensuring affordability and quality.
- PPC and Afrisam Retailers: These cement suppliers often stock basic mixers at their outlets, focusing on pairing mixers with high-quality cement for best results.
Expect to pay
Small electric mixers start R4,500 for 120- to 150-litre capacity, ideal for DIY tasks. Mid-range mixers are mainly petrol-powered units with capacities of 250 litres cost between R 12,000 and R 18,000. Large Mixers are mainly diesel-powered, 400-litre models suitable for large-scale operations and are priced around R 20,000 to R 25,000.
Investing in a small concrete mixer can speed up the way contractors and builders handle their projects. Beyond saving time and labour, mixers ensure superior concrete quality which is critical for structural integrity and durability. The uniform mix achieved by a rotating drum is far superior to what can be achieved with hand mixing.
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