Cement mix for fireplace hearth

[Sarah_W]

I need to repair the existing concrete lump under where the hearth used to sit to bring it back to floorboard level. It's approx 4 foot wide, 1 foot out and 1 inch deep.

I've bought (plasticised) cememnt and sand but am baffled by the various mixes... What mix should I use for this?

[Spudler]

5:1 will be fine.
Sarah, can i make a suggestion?...buy this: http://www.amazon.co.uk/DIY-Manual-Readers-Digest/... believe me, its £12 well spent.
Hope your not offended. I shall always answer your questions but this book is invaluable in you situation.

[B17NNS]

As above.

I'd also give the existing surface a couple of coats of PVA (dilute 1 part PVA/5 parts water prior to laying the new conrete. This will help slo down the drying and help create a good bond.

What sort of sand are you using? I'd go with sharp sand personally, ballast a bit to coarse for 1".

Oh and on the subject of the book, it really is very good.

[Rollin]

Instant concrete. Pour dry powder into space and level up. Sprinkle on water from watering can.

[Sarah_W]

Hi folks,

Many thanks for the advice. I've currently got the Collins DIY manual but is has a good few gaps so will purchase this one too. Right - off to PVA the fireplace and then cement it tomorrow evening. I've had the wooden floors restored and just going to cement then paint black the concrete where the hearth was before putting a rug over it as can't think of anything more attractive to do with the space.

Thanks again!

[Spudler]

Dont PVA tonight, do it just before (20min approx) you cement (screed) the hearth, then it will bond to the existing concrete. Instructions on back of tub for varying situations.