When it comes to building or renovating, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right concrete. Using the wrong mix can lead to cracks, weak structures, or wasted time and money. That’s why understanding concrete grades is essential, whether you’re laying a new driveway, pouring a patio, or working on structural elements.
At Flowmix, we provide a range of high-quality concrete grades with fast, reliable delivery across Tewkesbury and Aldridge, so you can be confident your project is built to last.
✅ Order ready-mix or volumetric concrete today
✅ Free, fast quote within 24 hours
✅ Call, message or complete our simple online form
Flowmix Tewkesbury: Tel: 01684 217888 Flowmix Walsall: Tel: 01922 741731
What Are Concrete Grades?
In the UK, concrete grades are classifications that describe the strength and durability of a concrete mix. Each grade is tested for compressive strength after 28 days, usually measured in megapascals (MPa). The two main measurements are:
- Cube strength – measured using a standard 150mm cube
- Cylinder strength – measured using a cylindrical sample
Modern UK concrete grades are named using codes such as C20/25, C25/30, or C30/37, while older nominal mixes such as M20 or M25 are still occasionally referenced. The higher the grade, the stronger and more durable the concrete, which makes it suitable for heavier structural work.
Common Concrete Grades and Their Uses
Choosing the right grade of concrete depends on the project type and structural requirements. Here’s a quick guide to the most common grades:
| Concrete Grade | Compressive Strength (28 days) | Typical Applications |
| C20/25 | 20 MPa (cube) / 25 MPa (cylinder) | Domestic floor slabs, patios, paths, driveways |
| C25/30 | 25 MPa / 30 MPa | Driveways, pavements, light structural elements, & garden walls |
| C30/37 | 30 MPa / 37 MPa | Beams, columns, ground floor slabs, reinforced structural work |
| C35/45 | 35 MPa / 45 MPa | Heavy structural elements, industrial floors, bridges, & foundations |
| C40/50 | 40 MPa / 50 MPa | Large-scale infrastructure, high-strength concrete applications |
Understanding these grades ensures you use the right mix for the task. For example, a garden path doesn’t need C35/45, but a reinforced concrete beam certainly does.
Need Expert Advice?
Speak to the team at Flowmix Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire or Aldridge, Walsall. We are happy to help with all your concrete requirements.
Flowmix Tewkesbury: 01684 217888 Flowmix Walsall: Tel: 01922 741731
How to Choose the Right Concrete Grade
When selecting a concrete grade, consider these factors:
- Structural requirements: Load-bearing walls, columns, and beams need higher grades.
- Exposure to weather: External areas exposed to frost or heavy rain benefit from stronger mixes.
- Project type: Domestic vs industrial or commercial projects will have different requirements.
For homeowners, Flowmix can recommend the ideal grade for patios, driveways, or slabs. For contractors, we provide high-strength options for structural projects, all delivered on time and ready to use.
Conclusion
Choosing the right concrete grade is crucial for durability, safety, and long-lasting results. At Flowmix, we make it easy to select the right grade for your project and deliver it quickly within a 2-hour time slot. That means you can get started with confidence.
Why Choose Flowmix for Your Concrete
At Flowmix, we specialise in delivering high-quality concrete grades directly to your site. With fast delivery slots across Tewkesbury and Aldridge, and surrounding areas, you can start your project on schedule without compromise.
Flowmix has two plants, Gloucester and Walsall. We provide the following services (with time slots):
✅ Ready-mix concrete, mix on-site (volumetric concrete)
✅ Traditional and liquid screed.
✅ 200′ Concrete line pump Hire to reduce manual labour and associated costs, increase efficiency, reduce wastage and clean up.
✅ Interlocking concrete blocks for temporary or permanent barriers.
✅ Mini-Mix loads up to 4 cubic metres.
Flowmix has the BSA-approved Ready Mix Concrete Kitemark KM683844, a certification that “confirms a product or service’s claim has been independently and repeatedly tested by experts” (source BSI).
✅ Order ready-mix or volumetric concrete today
✅ Free, fast quote within 24 hours
✅ Call, message or complete our simple online form
Flowmix Tewkesbury: Tel: 01684 217888 Flowmix Walsall: Tel: 01922 741731
Flowmix Delivery Areas
| Tewkesbury Area | Walsall Area |
| Bourton-on-the-Water | Aldridge |
| Brockworth | Barton-Under-Needwood |
| Chalford | Birmingham |
| Cheltenham | Brownhills |
| Chipping Campden | Burntwood |
| Cirencester | Burton Upon Trent |
| Droitwich Spa | Cannock |
| Evesham | Coleshill |
| Gloucester | Dudley |
| Great Malvern | Great Haywood |
| Ledbury | Lichfield |
| Newent | Norton Canes |
| Northleach | Penkridge |
| Pershore | Rugeley |
| Ross-on-Wye | Stafford |
| Stow-on-the-Wold | Tamworth |
| Stroud | Walsall |
| Tewkesbury | West Bromwich |
| Worcester | Wolverhampton |
FAQs
What Grade Concrete Should I Use For A Garden Path?
C20/25 is ideal for domestic paths and patios.
Can I Use C20/25 Grade Concrete For A Driveway?
For light domestic driveways, yes. For heavier vehicles, consider C25/30 or higher.
How Long Does Concrete Take To Reach Full Strength?
Concrete reaches most of its strength in 28 days, but you can walk on it after a few days, depending on the grade.
What’s The Difference Between Cube And Cylinder Strength?
Cube strength is usually slightly lower than cylinder strength. Both measurements help ensure concrete meets structural standards.
