How to Mix and Pour Cement for a Patio That Lasts

A DIY cement patio is one of the most practical and satisfying home improvement projects you can take on. It adds usable outdoor space, boosts curb appeal, and holds up well over time. But the difference between a surface that cracks and one that lasts for years often comes down to how it’s mixed and poured.

With the right prep and the right tools (like the MudMixer), you can get it done faster and more efficiently, all without sacrificing quality. This guide walks you through the full process of planning, mixing, and pouring your own concrete patio with confidence.

Planning Your Cement Patio Project

Choose the Right Location

Before picking up a shovel, decide where your patio will go. A back patio is great for outdoor furniture or a grill station. A front porch creates curb appeal and a place to relax. Smaller spaces near side yards or garden paths can also work well for a seating area.

Take note of how the sun hits the spot throughout the day. A shaded area may be more comfortable in the summer, while a sunny space might be better suited for cooler months.

Measure Your Space

Grab a tape measure and mark out the dimensions. Multiply the length by the width to get the square footage of your patio.

Example: A 10 ft × 10 ft patio = 100 square feet.

When buying materials, round up slightly to avoid running short.

Patio Size & Estimated Bag Count

 

 

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

To mix and pour a cement patio that lasts, you’ll need a few must-have tools and materials. Here’s what to gather before starting your project:

Tools

• MudMixer portable concrete mixer

• Shovel

• Power washer (to clean your concrete surface later)

• Safety glasses, mask and gloves

• Screed board or straight 2x4

• Bull float and finishing trowel

Materials

• Cement mix (pre-blended bags)

• Water

• Stakes and string (to lay out the form)

• Gravel or crushed stone (base layer)

• Concrete sealer

• Optional: patio paint, stain, or outdoor rug

 

How to Mix Cement with the MudMixer

Mixing cement by hand or using a traditional drum mixer can be time-consuming and inconsistent, especially when working on a large area like a patio. The MudMixer is built to solve that.

Why Use a MudMixer

The MudMixer offers continuous mixing with no batching required. Just load the bags, dial in the water, and pour. The mix comes out evenly blended, saving time and reducing physical strain.

• Continuous feed for fast output

• Accurate water control for consistent mix

• Reduces fatigue and keeps pours moving efficiently

Mixing Instructions

1. Set up the MudMixer near your pour site for easy access.

2. Load your cement mix bags into the hopper—no pre-blending required.

3. Adjust the water dial according to your bag’s instructions.

4. Let the mixer do the work, collecting the mix directly into a wheelbarrow or pouring form.

In The Mix: How to Pour a Cement Patio Start to Finish

See how the MudMixer simplifies the process in a real DIY setting. This video walks through framing, pouring, and finishing a concrete patio using the MudMixer to keep things fast and consistent.

Step-by-Step Guide to Pouring Your Patio

1. Excavate the Area

The first step is to remove sod and dirt down to a depth of 6–8 inches to make room for your gravel base and slab.

2. Add Gravel Base

Spread and compact 3–4 inches of gravel or crushed stone. This provides a solid foundation and helps with drainage.

3. Build a Form

Use 2x4s and stakes to frame the shape of your patio. Drive the stakes into the ground and attach the boards securely.

4. Pour the Cement

Start pouring from one corner and work your way across. Use a screed board to level the wet concrete as you go.

5. Smooth and Finish

The next step is to use a bull float to flatten the surface. Let it sit slightly, then use a trowel to finish the edges or create a specific texture.

6. Let It Cure

Avoid foot traffic for at least 24–48 hours. The cement will reach full strength in about 28 days.

Design Ideas for Your New Patio

You don’t have to settle for a plain, boring concrete patio. There are simple concrete patio ideas to add character and style to the finished surface:

• Painted Patio – Use patio paint to add color that complements your outdoor space.

• Stamped Concrete – Press a pattern into the surface before it fully sets for a decorative finish your outdoor patio.

• Stained Concrete – Apply concrete stain for a natural stone or marbled effect.

• Add an Outdoor Rug – A durable outdoor rug adds comfort and color to the seating area.

• Border with Pavers – Place concrete pavers around the edge for contrast and definition.

Building a Flagstone Patio

Flagstone is a great way to upgrade your outdoor space with a natural, textured look. Many DIYers start with a concrete slab as the foundation, then set flagstone pieces using mortar or sand. The MudMixer is perfect for pouring that base, quickly producing the consistent slab you need to support the weight and layout of flagstone. Whether you're planning a full patio or a walkway leading to your front door, a solid concrete surface makes the flagstone easier to install and helps it last longer.

Tips to Make Your Concrete Patio Last

Seal the Surface

After the patio cures, apply a concrete sealer to help protect it from water, UV rays, and surface stains.

Avoid a Slippery Surface

Use a broom finish for traction. If you plan to seal the surface, consider mixing in an anti-slip additive.

Regular Maintenance

Use a concrete cleaner or mild cleaning solution to remove stains and buildup. A power washer works well for seasonal cleanups.

Can I pour a concrete slab in sections?

Yes. Just be aware that you’ll need expansion joints where each section ends. These lines help prevent cracking, but can also be visible if not planned carefully.

What if my concrete surface cracks?

Small cracks are common and usually cosmetic. They often result from temperature changes or minor settling. Structural cracks, on the other hand, may indicate a base issue and should be checked before repairing.

Your Concrete Porch Project Starts Here

Mixing cement doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. With the MudMixer, you get fast output and consistent results that hold up over time. And with the right prep, even first-time DIYers can pour a patio that stays solid for years to come.

Take the guesswork out of your next outdoor project and start mixing smarter.