Ready-mixed concrete is rapidly becoming a popular option for both building professionals and amateur DIY-ers. If you are considering using ready mixed concrete for your next project, you may have a few questions. And we are here to answer them!
In this blog, we’re sharing answers to the most frequently asked questions about ready mixed concrete…
Table of Contents
What Is Ready Mixed Concrete?
Ready mixed concrete is a pre-mixed building material that is expertly mixed by a supplier using cement, water and raw aggregates including finely crushed stone or sand.
Providers of ready mixed concrete take your project type and size into consideration before mixing a batch of concrete tailored to your specifications. It is then delivered to your site at a date and time that suits your planning schedule.
There are three types of ready mixed concrete and the type you choose will depend on your project. Transit mixed concrete (also known as truck mixed concrete) is the most popular and this involves the concrete being part mixed by the supplier before and during transportation before being completed upon arrival at your site.
Shrink mixed concrete is a popular option when trying to maximise the truck load capacity. By part mixing the concrete prior to transportation, the supplier can reduce the volume and therefore fit more into the truck for transportation.
Finally, central mixed concrete (also known as wet batch concrete) is the third type and this involves the concrete being completely mixed in a stationary mixer before leaving the supplier’s yard. This concrete is periodically rotated during transit.
What Can It Be Used For?
One of the advantages of ready mixed concrete is its versatility. It can be used for a wide range of commercial and domestic building projects, including:
- Groundworks
- Paving
- RC Frames
- Agricultural
- High performance including self-compacting concrete and self-levelling concrete
- DIY projects, including landscaping and self-builds.
Is It Quality Approved?
Yes. Ready-mixed concrete should always be quality-approved; however, this will depend on which supplier you choose. SRC Group, for example, provides premium ready mixed concrete that is quality approved to BS8500 / BS EN 206 standards.
How Long Does It Take To Set?
It is advised that ready mixed concrete is laid and levelled within two hours following arrival to your site as it does tend to set relatively quickly. This is why you must be ready for the delivery.
How To I Prepare For A Hassle-Free Delivery?
To prepare for a delivery of ready mixed concrete, ensure your team is aware of the date and estimated time of arrival. Ensure there is easy access for the mixing truck to make the delivery with ease by moving any vehicles and clearing the site of any debris, rubbish or equipment/tools.
Once the cement has been delivered, you’re going to want to start using it straight away, so ensure you have the correct tools, materials and labourers ready for the delivery.
Is Ready-Mixed Concrete More Affordable?
The cost of ready mixed concrete varies from supplier to supplier. It can appear costly; however, most people find it to be much more cost-effective than sourcing their own materials and hiring mixing equipment.
