The Most Popular Uses for Ready Mix Concrete

Concrete is one of the great staples of the modern construction industry. If you’re new to ready-mix concrete, or a seasoned professional, we are here to give an extensive breakdown of this essential construction material. Keep reading to find our informative guide to ready mix concrete and how you could benefit from choosing it!

What Is Ready Mix Concrete?

Ready mix concrete is a type of concrete that is specially designed for clients, via their requirements. It is developed within a batch plant, which is a manufacturing plant where concrete is mixed before it goes to a construction site. The ready mix concrete is then delivered directly to the appropriate site, ready to use. Because of the specific proportions that are requested, companies will typically only charge for the exact amount of concrete that you use and they will mix it to your exact specifications.

How Does It Differ From Normal Concrete?

One of the main differences is being able to specify the quantities of materials being mixed within the concrete. Depending on your project, you will be able to request specific quantities of aggregates, cement and water to be used in your ready mix concrete.

Additionally, ready mix concrete is mixed offsite and delivered to the project site via a specialist vehicle. Typically, normal concrete is delivered in its raw form and usually needs mixing on site. These are the two main differences between ready mix and normal concrete, depending on your project, you may require a specific type of concrete and have to decide which one suits your project better.

How Are Building Aggregates Used In Concrete?

Building aggregates are essential components of construction materials. They are typically made from asphalt or concrete, but can be made from gravel or other, recyclable materials. They are used within cement mixes to make them more compact and help increase the strength of the concrete. They usually take up approximately 60-80% of the concrete mix, alongside water and cement. Quantities will differ depending on the project, but building aggregates are still a vital part of a durable and impenetrable concrete mix.

Benefits Of Choosing Ready Mix Concrete

There are a range of benefits that come with choosing ready-mix concrete that can be advantageous to your project or your business.

●    Saving Time - Because the process of ready mix concrete is to have it pre-mixed and delivered to your site, you will save time. Rather than having to mix raw materials on site, opting for ready mix concrete will give you more time to focus on other areas of your project.

●    Eco-Friendly - Being made to specific requirements, and to measure, there is a reduced amount of concrete waste when you choose ready mix concrete. This is more environmentally conscious as less waste goes to dump sites or landfill. You are also less likely to have a large amount of waste because the amount of concrete that you need has been calculated and made.

●    Lower Costs - The typical concrete process is more separate, with individual materials that need to be mixed. When you are using ready mix concrete, you are not having to buy or store raw materials, so you do not have to worry about the expenses that come alongside this.

●    Higher Quality - WIth your materials being mixed in amore controlled environment, you have more say over proportions and developing concrete to your exact specifications. This means that you have a higher quality product when your ready mix concrete is delivered to your site.

●    Versatility - Ready mix concrete is extremely versatile and it can be used in a variety of different settings. It provides sound infrastructure for both residential and commercial properties, and is great for large or small projects.

What Can I Use Ready Mix Concrete For?

Ready mix concrete is extremely versatile and can be used for a range of different purposes in the construction industry. These are the most common places you might see or use ready mixed concrete.

Walls

Ready mix concrete is a structurally sound and reliable choice for walls. Because you can choose the specifications of your concrete mix, it is convenient and can be crafted to your exact requirements. By having a bespoke construction material, you will be able to control the stability, durability and insulation of your concrete.

Floors

Ready mix concrete is a great choice for commercial flooring. Warehouses and other businesses may choose this type of flooring because of its low maintenance qualities and durability, making it a practical and safe flooring choice for many businesses.

Roads

Concrete has almost always been used on our roads. Ready mix concrete has a range of advantages when it comes to being used on the roads. Its durability and hardy nature allows it to be more resilient than other materials. It is less prone to cracking and requires a low level of maintenance, making it a good and safe option for roads. 

Driveways

Concrete is a very popular material choice for driveways. It is strong and durable, making it a good choice for a driveway, and supporting the weight of one or more cars. They require very little maintenance once installed, which is a bonus for the user.

While ready mixed concrete is usually grey in colour, it can be coloured upon request for more interesting shades to suit the aesthetic of your home better.

It is important to note that typically it is more costly to have ready mix concrete applied on your driveway than other materials. 

Footpaths

Once you have installed your ready mixed concrete for your footpath, it is incredibly low maintenance. For users of the footpath, it will be smooth and risk-free, so you don't need to worry about cracks and follow up repairs.

This is a great choice when your footpath is in a tricky spot, or somewhere that is hard to access. You won’t need to worry about constantly maintaining your footpath or carrying out frequent repairs.

Preparing Your Site For Construction Materials

Although ready mixed concrete is prepared on your behalf, there are still measures to take to ensure your site is appropriately prepared for its arrival. A few tips for preparing your site for ready mix to be delivered:

●    Storage - You will need a safe place to store your concrete before your project begins. So, identifying and creating some space for when your delivery arrives is a good way to stay organised and prepared.

●    Tools & Safety Equipment - Ensure that you, and all of your employees have the appropriate clothing and tools when working with ready mix concrete. You should ensure that all safety measures are in place when it comes to working with this material.

●    Preparing The Site For Laying - Before any concrete is laid down, you must ensure that the area is completely level. Or, as level as possible. You should clear the site from debris and make sure there is nothing cutting the area you will be working with. It is also a good idea to make sure that the ground has been compacted sufficiently for concrete to be laid down.

These preparation steps will benefit you when your project is underway, and prevent issues from arising during the development of your construction work.

William Thompson & Son Ltd

Here at William Thompson & Son Ltd, we are reliable concrete suppliers ready to help you get your project done the right way. If you’re looking for ready-mix concrete, try using our online calculator, you can work out the exact amount of concrete you will need for your project. We are committed to providing a high standard of service and remaining environmentally conscious by helping our clients with their waste.

Whether you are looking for Glasgow quarry products, or recycled aggregates, we offer a wide range of services that you can check out on our website.

For any further enquiries about our work and how we can help your site or project,feel free to get in touch with us today. Our expert team will be happy to advise you and help you with any questions.