A concrete mixer can be a beneficial rental for any concrete project. The problem is narrowing down whether or not you actually need a concrete mixer. They come in several sizes, offering something anyone can use but sometimes you can spend more on renting one than you need to, especially when you can mix the concrete yourself for a small project. Let’s look at whether you should rent a concrete mixer for your next project.
Do You Need a Concrete Mixer?
The first question you want to ask yourself is how big is your project? If you’re doing a simple crack repair or pouring concrete in a small area, you don’t need a concrete mixer. You can use a wheelbarrow or bucket to mix your concrete, and you’ll save yourself potentially hundreds of dollars. If your project is much bigger, then consider a concrete mixer. This will not only make it easier to mix your concrete but also to pour it, as mixers often offer both functions.
You can rent concrete mixers from concrete companies and some home improvement stores, like Home Depot and Lowes. Not all home improvement stores rent this type of equipment, so make sure to call ahead to find out if they do. You may have to go out of your way to get a concrete mixer depending on where you live, so this should be a consideration, too, since you’ll often rent it for a day. If you need it for more than one day, you’ll spend much more which may not make its use worthwhile.
If you’re not sure exactly what scope of project you’re undertaking, consult a concrete specialist to find out what they recommend. They may even offer you an estimate that’s cheaper than renting the machine, buying concrete and the time you’ll invest in it. If that’s the case, go with the concrete company and save yourself the time, energy and money.