Universal construction mix is a solution in certain proportions of cement, sand and additional additives (plasticizers, polymers, compounds that increase strength, frost resistance and other technical characteristics). Most often, the universal construction mix M 150 is used on construction sites, since it is inexpensive and can be used for masonry, plaster work, and foundation preparation.
Types of universal mixes
Depending on the composition and cement, universal dry mixes for construction are divided by strength grade. In the online store “AlfatSem” you can buy a universal mixture of M200, M300, M100 and M150 . The range also includes::
- Universal adhesive formulations;
- Modified mixtures for operation at low temperatures;
- Moisture-resistant mixtures and materials with increased strength;
- Various dry mixes with fine, medium, and coarse filler fractions;
- Compositions with chemically active compounds, for waterproofing, plasticizing.
If you need building materials to solve certain construction, engineering, or technical problems, you can contact our consultants and get detailed answers to your questions. Technical characteristics of universal mixes
- Packaging-in bags of 25, 30, 40, 50 kg, as well as in big bags of 1 ton;
- Pot life of the solution-45-180 minutes;
- Frost resistance cycles (M150) – 50-60 cycles;
- Application layer thickness – from 5 mm to 100 mm;
- The final setting time is 14-30 days.
Different manufacturers produce compositions that differ in their technical characteristics. For example, a mixture that is universal in its field of application may have different properties compared to similar building materials from other manufacturers. Very often, to solve special problems, manufacturing companies produce “improved” or “special” universal dry mixes. This means that the production process uses a more carefully sorted filler, various chemical compounds that allow working with the solution at a negative temperature, and so on.
Scope of application of universal mixtures
The price of dry universal mix M 150 for 50 kg starts from 100 rubles, so this building material has a consistently high demand. Most often, such solutions are used in processes such as:
- Filling, repair, and construction of light foundations;
- Plastering of interior and exterior walls;
- Carrying out decorative finishing;
- Wall, floor, and ceiling alignment;
- Performing general construction and installation works;
- Laying curbs, paving slabs, precast concrete;
- Sealing of cracks, covering up of seams;
- creating architectural items;
- Use as a filler for other solutions.
In addition, it is allowed to use many components in combination with a universal filler. For example, you can add toner, plasticizers, fiber, chemicals to increase air entrainment, all kinds of setting accelerators, antifungal impregnations, and so on. To apply the finished solution, you just need to observe the proportions indicated on the label. Due to the observance of a verified proportion, the quality of the universal mixture remains stable, and the technical characteristics remain within the framework of GOST or TU. The mixture is mixed in a concrete mixer, construction mixer or shovel until it is smooth. It is not allowed to use mixtures with incorrect mixing and the formation of lumps of undissolved cement and sand. Some types of products, especially those with a large fraction, can become stratified when vibrating or improperly kneaded, so carefully read the manufacturer’s requirements to achieve quality and durability.
What universal mix should I buy?
The most common problems associated with negative consequences when using universal mixtures are as follows: :
- Improper storage-the dry mixture should not be stored in a humid environment, under direct sunlight, or in rooms with frequent temperature changes. Some chemical reagents require strict climate control in warehouses, so when buying universal solutions, carefully study the storage conditions of bulk mixtures.
- Broken or expired shelf life-despite the fact that building materials have a relatively long shelf life, they can still run out at some point. Even if the mixture was stored correctly, after its expiration date, the technical characteristics (strength, frost resistance, ductility) drop sharply.
- Give preference to proven brands and manufacturers – the Alfats online store supplies mixes directly from manufacturers and dealers. Our main partners in this area are “Asia Cement”, “Stone Flower”, “Dauer”, “UMIX”, “EL-BLOCK” and others.
- Carefully study such a parameter as “pot life” – this parameter means how much time you will have before the previous setting of the mixture. For example, quick-setting solutions are usually required for installation work, and for normal housing construction, a series with a life of 120-180 minutes is required. Do not forget that the final strength gain will occur in 10-30 days from the moment the mortar is laid on the surface.
- To avoid shedding, shooting of plaster due to frost, choose a higher grade of the mixture-this guarantees increased strength of the resulting surface. Since the brand affects the cost of the bag, choose building materials based on their application area. For walls and ceilings, M 300 will be enough, if you want to make a concrete preparation-m 150, if you need to strengthen or repair the foundation, it is better to choose M 400 and above.
- The presence of certain chemical compounds and other components can significantly extend the service life of surfaces at low cost. For example, there are universal mixtures with increased frost and moisture resistance. You can also use an inexpensive base formulation and add these ingredients separately as needed. In such cases, it is more economical to purchase a universal construction mix in big bags and already on the construction site to give the solutions certain properties.