Old Masonry Cement in Ballast Box

[hillbilly rick]

There were 4 bags of masonry cement left at our house when we bought it. I have no idea how old it is, but I'm guessing at least 20 years. Is there any reason not to use this as ballast? Will the age of the cement cause any issues when mixing it with water? Will there be any issues using a different type of cement to finish filling the box?

I saw on another thread the idea of putting PVC pipe in the cement so you can carry handled tools. I like that idea. Do you need to drill a hole in the bottom of the ballast box so water will drain out of the pipe?

Thanks in advance for your help!

 

[LD1]

There were 4 bags of masonry cement left at our house when we bought it. I have no idea how old it is, but I'm guessing at least 20 years. Is there any reason not to use this as ballast?

A ballast box is a perfect use for it.

Will the age of the cement cause any issues when mixing it with water? Will there be any issues using a different type of cement to finish filling the box?

It may not be as strong as a new bag of cement, but for a ballast box, I wouldnt worry. If it cracks or breaks, who cares, it is inside the box. And yes, you could finish with a defferent type of concrete.

I saw on another thread the idea of putting PVC pipe in the cement so you can carry handled tools. I like that idea. Do you need to drill a hole in the bottom of the ballast box so water will drain out of the pipe?

That would probabally be a good Idea so it wont freeze and bust in the winter.:thumbsup:

And also, be sure you know what the concrete is, IE: is it JUST cement, or is it pre-mix. The pre-mix already has sand and gravel in it, all you have to do is add water. If it is JUST portland cement, you will have to add sand and gravel as well as water.