Are there any alternatives to mixing boards?

2nd March 2020


	Are there any alternatives to mixing boards?


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			There are a number of alternatives to mixing boards, including mixing tubs, plasterer’s baths and mortar pans. All these tools have different features but give the user the ability to perform the same tasks as mixing boards.

			Mixing tubs
			Mixing tubs are round containers that are suitable for mixing batches of mortar and cement.

			They can be used for other tasks including storing tools, removing rubble, collecting water and much more. The tubs are flexible so they can change shape to suit specific tasks. For example, when you are pouring water, you can form a spout with the side of the tub.

			Mixing boards and mixing tubs can both be used for other tasks. These include using the mixing board as a children’s play area and the mixing tub as a water trough or somewhere to store your tools.

			A mixing tub is similar to a bucket so it is not always easy to mix material or shovel it out of the tub. The high sides mean you can only shovel from the top and not from the side, as you can with a mixing board.

			However, a mixing tub is a cheaper alternative which is enables you to perform a number of tasks. When you purchase one, you are buying a product that not only allows you to mix materials, but which can be used for tasks such as collecting water and rubble, carrying materials, as a wash bucket or storage for tools, and much more. A mixing board allows you to mix materials but does not offer a lot more.

			What you plan to use if for will help you decide whether you need a mixing board or a mixing tub. Overall, the mixing board offers a lot more room when it comes to mixing and is much more accessible when shovelling material.

			Mixing bath
			A mixing bath, commonly known as a plasterer’s bath, is used for mixing plaster, mortar, cement or similar materials.

			It can also be used as a water trough, rendering skip or a container to collect rubble. Mixing baths can be used for a number of purposes – even as temporary turtle home.


			They do not provide as much room as mixing boards, which can make it difficult for users when mixing or shovelling. The sides of the bath limit shovel access, unlike the mixing board which is just a flat board with, on some types, slightly raised sides.

			Mortar pan
			This is a rectangular pan with sloped sides, ideal for mixing mortar, cement and other similar materials.

			Mortar pans can be used for a number of other purposes including storage for tools, as water troughs, for collecting rubble or even catching water from a leak.

			They are light and have rounded edges, so they are easy to carry and move from job to job. Some mortar pans even have handles on either side to make carrying the pan easier.

			The larger raised sides means materials are less likely to be spilled and wasted compared to a mixing board. A mixing board has only small raised sides, or is perfectly flat, so you have to be careful when mixing near the edges.

			Mixing boards and mortar pans are both excellent tools for mixing and holding material.

			Mortar stand with top board
			A mortar stand provides a base that supports a board to mix mortar, plaster or similar materials at waist level. It can be purchased on its own or with a top board.

			The stand eliminates constant bending and lifting.

			Mortar stands can also be useful for other tasks. The surface is ideal for resting items on, reducing the need to reach to the floor. For example, you can rest your brushes and paint on the stand while painting.

			The problem with a mortar stand is that it comes in two parts, so it requires setting up for use, and closing when not in use. It also takes up more storage space, and needs more room when being used. The mixing board requires no set-up and it is always ready to use, saving time and effort in the work area. Another advantage is that it comes as one piece, saving storage and work space.

			Mortar stands are expensive compared to mixing boards and fulfil the same functions, but the stand provides height. It can be an advantage working with the mixed material, but when you are shovelling you will want the board at ground level to give yourself a comfortable reach.

			The mixing board is cheaper, takes up less storage and work space, does the same jobs as a mortar stand and comes as one part that requires no set-up.