Why hire a mixer

Mixing concrete or mortar by hand sounds easy until you try it. It’s hard work, takes ages, and you rarely get the same consistency from batch to batch. A proper mixer gives you a smooth, even mix every time. It keeps your pace up, reduces waste, and makes sure your concrete sets properly with a better finish. Whether you’re pouring a patio, laying a base, or just setting fence posts, hiring a mixer saves time and effort and gives you better results.

Cement mixers available from GR8

We keep a range of reliable concrete and cement mixers ready to go. You’ll find both small domestic and larger site models, so there’s something for every project size.

• Belle Electric Cement Mixer Hire – a compact electric mixer perfect for smaller DIY or domestic jobs. Runs from a standard 230V supply, ideal for home or light site use. Can be used on or off its stand for comfortable barrow loading.
• Belle Diesel Bulk Mixer Hire – a heavy-duty diesel site mixer designed for bigger pours, continuous use, and when no mains power is available. Great for larger slabs, footings, and construction jobs where volume and speed matter.

Both mixers feature durable steel drums, strong gearboxes, and stands for easy tipping into a wheelbarrow. Accessories like wheelbarrows, shovels, and trowels can also be added to your hire if needed.

Choosing the right size (domestic versus commercial)

Picking the right size comes down to how much you’re mixing and how quickly you need to pour it. A small electric Belle-type mixer suits garden and household work, while the larger diesel site mixer steps up for long or heavy pours.

Here’s how to think about it:

• Small patio or path – an electric mixer will easily keep up, letting you mix batch by batch without waste.
• Shed base or small slab – you can manage with an electric mixer, but if you need to mix continuously for a larger slab, a diesel model keeps up without pausing.
• Driveway bay or footing – that’s where the diesel site mixer shines, as it can produce larger batches back-to-back without overheating.

Think about power access too. Electric mixers run from a household plug or 110V site transformer, but you’ll need safe outdoor electrics with an RCD. Diesel mixers make more sense where power isn’t available or when you’re outside all day. Also consider neighbours and noise—diesel mixers are louder, so electric may be better in built-up areas.

Here’s a simple guide to help you choose:

If you’re ever unsure, give us a call and we’ll help match the mixer to your project and pour size.

Mixing basics and ratios

There’s a bit of an art to getting a good mix, but a few key tips make it simple. Always pre-measure your sand, cement, and aggregate, so each batch is the same. Add water gradually, never all at once, until you get a workable but not sloppy consistency.

As a general guide:

• General purpose mix – 1 part cement, 2 parts sand, 3 parts aggregate (1:2:3).
• Stronger mix – 1 part cement, 1.5 parts sand, 2.5 parts aggregate (for foundations or load-bearing work).

Always check the guidance printed on your cement or premix bags and follow any building regulations that apply to your project.

Tips for efficient mixing

• Set up the mixer on firm, level ground near your materials.
• Use a stand so you can tip straight into a barrow without lifting.
• Keep barrow routes clear and safe.
• Work in pairs if possible—one loads while the other pours.
• Clean the drum immediately after the final mix before it sets.

Hire process and rates at GR8

You can see our live day, 2-day, and week hire rates on each product page. We can also deliver and collect from your site, saving you the hassle of transport. If you need extras like barrows, shovels, trowels or compaction equipment, we can add them to your booking.

Safety and good practice

• Wear gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy boots.
• Plug electric mixers into an RCD-protected socket or transformer.
• Always place mixers on stable, level ground.
• Never reach inside a rotating drum—always stop the motor first.
• Ensure good ventilation if used indoors.
• Handle cement carefully—it’s alkaline and can irritate skin and eyes.

Remember that mixed concrete is heavy. Use good lifting technique and don’t overload barrows. A steady pace is safer and more efficient than rushing.

Why hire from GR8

We only stock reliable mixers that are properly serviced and ready to work. Our turnaround is fast, and our team will happily help you pick the right size and power type. You can also bundle your hire with related kit like screeds, concrete floats, and compaction tools if you’re finishing or preparing a slab.

How to book

Booking is easy. You can call us directly or request a quote straight from the product page. Where available, we can offer same-day or next-day delivery so you can get mixing without delay.

FAQs

What size mixer do I need for a shed base? A small electric Belle mixer is usually perfect. It can handle several barrow loads at a time and keeps up nicely for small slab pours. Can I use an electric mixer outdoors in light rain? Yes, if it’s light rain and you’re using an RCD and keeping the plug connections dry. Avoid heavy rain or standing water—safety first. How many barrows per mix, roughly? A typical small electric mixer makes around one wheelbarrow per batch, while a diesel bulk mixer can produce two to three barrows at once. How long can mixed concrete stay workable? Concrete stays workable for around 60–90 minutes depending on temperature. Hot weather shortens that time, so mix only what you can place quickly. What should I clean the drum with? Use clean water and a handful of gravel or ballast to scour the drum before it sets. Never leave wet concrete inside—it will harden fast. Do I need a wacker plate as well? If you’re laying a base or slab, yes, compacting the sub-base makes a huge difference. See our Compaction Equipment to add one to your hire.

Quick checklist

• Measure your pour area and thickness
• Decide electric or diesel power
• Check for safe power supply or ventilation
• Plan material quantities and delivery
• Have water and cleaning tools ready

Ready to get started? Browse our Concrete and Cement Mixer Hire range or contact GR8 Tool Hire today for friendly advice and fast booking.