Popped into a Habitat ReStore near Tulsa last week and noticed something sketchy

They had about 20 bags of unlabeled cement mix that some contractor clearly dumped off after a job. Anyone know if there's a way to test old cement before you risk a whole footing on it?

2 comments

2 Comments

jesse_burns85d ago

I get where you're coming from with the "sketchy" vibe, but honestly I don't see it that way. A lot of contractors donate leftover materials after a job, it's pretty common and not necessarily shady. You can test old cement by grabbing a handful, mixing it with water, and seeing if it sets up hard over a day or two. If it's just a little lumpy or dusty from sitting too long, it's probably fine for a footing as long as the mix still feels powdery and not completely rock hard.

matthew7035d ago

Oh totally, yeah I don't think it's shady at all either. I've grabbed a bunch of half-used bags off Craigslist and from local Habitat stores over the years, never had an issue if the cement still feels fresh and powdery. The water test is solid advice, I usually do that with a small batch in a disposable cup just to be sure before I commit. Some guys get nervous about unlabeled stuff but if it looks good and passes the hand test, its usually fine for non-structural footings or slabs you're not parking a truck on. I'd say go for it, just keep an eye on the set time and don't use it for anything load-bearing unless you test it first.