1. What is This Calculator For?

This calculator helps determine the exact amounts of cement and sand needed for blockwork patio construction based on mortar volume and desired cement-to-sand ratio.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these formulas:

Where:

• 1.33 — Standard factor for mortar volume calculation
• 1440 — Density of cement (kg/m³)
• 1600 — Density of sand (kg/m³)
• Ratio — Cement to sand proportion (e.g., 1:4 means 4 parts sand to 1 part cement)

Explanation: The formulas calculate the proportional amounts of cement and sand based on the total mortar volume needed and the desired strength/mix ratio.

3. Importance of Accurate Measurements

Details: Using the correct cement-sand ratio ensures proper strength, workability, and durability of the mortar for your patio blockwork.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Calculate mortar volume based on your patio area and joint size
• Common ratios are 1:3 to 1:6 (cement:sand) depending on application
• For patios, 1:4 or 1:5 ratios are typically recommended
• Always add values greater than 0

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical mortar volume for patio blockwork?
A: Typically 0.05-0.1 m³ per 10 m² area, depending on block size and joint thickness.

Q2: Why is the ratio important?
A: Higher cement content increases strength but reduces workability and may cause cracking. Proper balance is crucial.

Q3: Should I account for wastage?
A: Yes, consider adding 10% extra to your calculated amounts to account for mixing and application losses.

Q4: Can I use this for other masonry work?
A: Yes, but adjust the ratio according to the specific requirements of your project.

Q5: How do I convert kg to bags of cement?
A: Standard cement bags are 25kg or 50kg. Divide your cement amount by the bag size to determine how many bags to purchase.