Mixing Sand and Concrete ????

[Aranon]

Anyone know the ration of mixing sand to concrete for bottom???

[JJ in Tx]

1 part Portland Cement with 8 parts sand NO WATER
you don't want to use something like Quikcrete it has the pebbles etc in it you want the Portland Cement it is just fine powder.
Hope that helps
JJ

[Aranon]

Thanks, Have you done this before and did it work pretty well for you. I didn't realize how fine the sand was until I saw where it ran out thru the cracks in the fence. I have little sand dunes on the other side. I could just picture all the sand running out around the edges and my pool sagging.

[JJ in Tx]

No I didn't have to do that on my install. Mine is round, here is what I did:
Leveled and compaceted existing ground, then I build a pressure treated 2x4 frame that was larger diameter than the pool basically 24' pool 28' frame, this frame got anchored to the ground with lengths of rebar spiked thru it and then back filled with masons sand. I would add some sand and compact it, add sand compact ..... then layed out the patio stones for the wall uprights added some more sand and compacted, assembled pool. It may be unorthodox and a lot more work but the pool hasn't had any issues, I haven't lost any sand from underneath it or anything like that. Personally I'm not familliar with how a oval goes together, maybe if you could post a picture or 2 of the problem we can brainstorm up a workable solution to your problem.
JJ

[Aranon]

I was hoping Dennis would have commented on this. I'm sure he has had this problem at least once.

Aranon

[Aranon]

JJ ,
How long before the sand sets up with the Portland Cement added to it. I would imagine that it only sets up enough to keep the sand together and not spreading or running off instead of a strength type bond. Am I thinking along the right lines. I was thinking of either building a 2x4 wall or using metal angle between the channels and pouring about a six inch rail of concrete to go between the rails and fill the middle with sand to level it off even with the upright channel supports and then I would have a firm level base to lay my 2" foam board on. I am thinking this way the sand wouldn't run out. Please advised. Thanks.
Aranon

[hrsdennis]

Hi Aranon, I have been reading but had nothing to add as I have not done this before, with the sand and concrete. On our indoor oval displays that need to be built up 2" we use styrafoam.

Your way sounds good as long as it sets hard and you have a way to keep it in place.

Later, Dennis

[JJ in Tx]

Aranon,
I can't put a time on the cement setting up too many variables. If you feel you need to add a tad bit more cement or a light misting of water that would be alright, I just wouldnt recommend soaking it down. Most of the time with a cement stabilized sand you are compacting it so that is where your gaining your bearing strength. I think your form would work but I have to admit I do prefer Dennis raise the whole area suggestion. I think you would be happier in the long run if you where able to raise the area up to the height of the sidewalk and compact it well.
JJ