What is the proper consistency of a concrete post hole mix?

• A. Wet enough to hold together, but not pour
• B. Just wet enough to pour
• C. Barely damp
• D. Soupy (Very watery)

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how workable the concrete post hole mix should be so it fills the hole properly. The best choice is just wet enough to pour. This means the mix is fluid enough to flow into the hole and around the post, filling gaps and preventing voids, but not so runny that water separates, the mix sinks, or it loses strength as it cures. If the mix is wet enough to hold together but not pour, it would be too stiff to fill the hole effectively. Barely damp is too dry and won’t flow well into tight spaces, and soupy is too watery, leading to separation, poor compaction, and a weaker base for the post.