When it comes to building your own cast concrete pots, you’ll need to take a few steps to ensure that you’ll have a successful project. This includes determining the right mold for your projects, preparing the mix, and sealing the finished product.
Preparing the concrete mix
Making concrete pots is easy with just a few simple steps. You can use a ready-mixed concrete mix, or you can make your own.
For the most part, you’ll need a good quality cement mix. Most concrete mixes will cure in about a day. However, some quick-set mixes will take a little longer. It’s also important to keep in mind that some concrete mixes for planters require a wet curing process. That means you’ll have to wrap the concrete in plastic to keep it moist. If it’s hot or windy, it may be necessary to spray the concrete.
For smaller projects, you’ll want a quick-setting mix. Many brands make mixes that will cure in less than an hour. Other mixes will require up to a day. The mix needs to be mixed smoothly to avoid lumps and to create a smooth surface. Adding water a little at a time is the best way to ensure this.
Concrete is an economical building material. However, there are some concerns about its safety. It contains silica, which can cause cancer when exposed repeatedly. So, it’s best to wear rubber gloves when handling it.
Choosing the right mold
Making concrete pots can be a fun and inexpensive hobby. They can be customized with a variety of concrete colorants, stains and pigments. A concrete pot can be purchased for as little as $2, but a pre-made mold can make the process even easier.
First, you need to choose the right material for the job. The material you choose is based on the type of casting you plan to make. For example, you’ll need to make sure your mold is heat resistant, so you don’t need to worry about chemicals leaking into your final product.
Once you’ve got your mold in place, you’ll need to add concrete to it. You can use a dry premix or concrete pigment. Make sure the mix is mixed according to the instructions. It’s important to use enough concrete to cover the bottom of your container. This will help prevent curling.
After pouring the concrete, you’ll need to let it set for at least 24 hours. During this time, you’ll want to tap the inside of the mold to remove any air bubbles.
Filling the bottom 1/3 of the pot with gravel or sand to use less soil
Adding gravel to a pot may sound like a bad idea. In reality, it can actually improve the overall drainage performance of your pots. This can make a major difference to the health of your plants. A good rule of thumb is to add the appropriate amount of sand or gravel for the size of your container.
The best way to decide on the proper ratio is to start with a small sample and increase the quantity as you go. One way to make this process easier is to coat your container with a non-stick cooking spray. For larger containers, it is worth it to invest in a heavy duty non-stick sprayer.
There are numerous companies out there that specialize in these products. For example, the company Thyme and Place has a complete line of indoor and outdoor plant supplies, and a potting bench complete with an expertly crafted wooden box. They also offer free plant consultations, which is a big plus if you are new to growing your own.
Sealing the concrete
If you’re planning to put a planter in your front yard or patio, it’s important to know how to seal the concrete of cast concrete pots. This will make sure that your planter is protected from the elements and from the wear and tear that concrete can experience.
Sealing the concrete of cast concrete pots can be a relatively easy process. It can be done on the outside or the inside of the pot. The process should take no longer than fifteen minutes. Concrete is porous and needs to be sealed in order to prevent cracks and moisture from forming. After sealing, you should apply a second coat. This should be applied for a recommended time by the manufacturer.
When applying the sealer, you can either spray it on or brush it on. Both methods should be used to ensure a smooth finish. You can also use a small trowel to remove excess sealant. Before you begin, make sure that the concrete surface is clean. If it is not, use a product designed for this purpose, such as Quikrete Concrete and Asphalt Cleaner.
