Concrete pumping makes pouring concrete into hard-to-reach areas safer and more efficient, especially with high volumes. Still, it’s not a foolproof process. Mistakes happen. That can result in a compromised pour, safety issues, and project delays.
The Flowmix team have a combined forty years of experience. We’ve witnessed every mistake possible with concrete pumping.
For this article, we put our heads together and decided on the top 5 concrete pumping mistakes to help you achieve a safe and flawless pour.
#1: Choosing the Wrong Pump
There are a variety of concrete pumps available for hire, and it’s essential to choose the right one for your concrete project.
Here are a few essential concrete pumping factors to consider:
- On-site access limitations.
- The concrete volume needed.
- How far the concrete has to travel vertically and horizontally.
Rather than guesswork, give the Flowmix team a quick call. We are happy to advise and help decrease the risk of mistakes. Ready-mix concrete pouring needn’t be a major headache.
Flowmix provides a 200’ line pump hire, which can cope with most on-site situations.
Read: Concrete Line Pump: 7 Key Benefits for Your Project
#2: Mixing the Concrete Incorrectly
When relying on a construction worker to mix the concrete on-site, the results can vary, depending on their attention to measurements. Inconsistent mixes can cause issues with concrete strength and quality.
If the concrete mix is too wet, the fine and coarse aggregates could segregate and cause a pump blockage. Conversely, if the mix is too dry, it’s more challenging to pump. In addition, a dry mix can compromise concrete strength when cured.
To avoid either situation, which can cause time delays, work with a ready mix or mix on-site concrete supplier like Flowmix.
From our Tewkesbury and Walsall plant, we cover a wide area for concrete deliveries. We can fine-tune the mix to the exact specifications for the application, ensuring consistent flow through the concrete line pump.
#3: Trying to Rush the Process
We get it. With any construction project, there are always time demands. Still, rushing to complete a concrete pumping job almost always causes issues. Shortcuts with concrete pouring are unadvised.
For instance, trying to speed up the pour can cause air bubbles, causing the final product to be weaker, which can later lead to cracking.
Working with Flowmix, we can guarantee a timed delivery slot and an operator with exceptional experience and a positive approach.
Trying to rush a concrete pour inevitably causes delays and leads to a poorer result.
To ensure we’re all on the same page, contact the Flowmix team to communicate what’s needed and when.
Read: Ordering Ready Mix Concrete: A Homeowners Guide
#4: Ignoring Weather Conditions
One thing we can guarantee is the unpredictability of British weather. Mother Nature throws a spanner into construction workers’ lives. From a deluge of rain to intense heat to extreme cold, we can often see it all on the same day!
Cold weather delays concrete setting time, and hot weather speeds it up, which can weaken the long-term strength and cause cracking issues.
The Flowmix team watch the weather like a hawk watches a mouse. We prepare for every eventuality. For instance, we can adjust the pumping schedule or add admixtures to control setting times. If the weather is freezing, insulating blankets can protect the setting concrete.
Planning is king, and we are masters of that. Contact the Flowmix team at Tewkesbury or Aldridge, and we can help you plan your project around the weather to minimise delays and maximise efficiency and concrete strength.
Read: Concrete Weather Conditions: Flowmix Gloucester Top Tips
#5: Neglecting On-Site Safety Protocols
Construction sites pose many safety hazards. A combo of slippery, wet concrete and heavy machinery presents safety challenges to on-site construction workers.
The primary on-site construction hazards when using a concrete line pump include:
- Pressure-related risks:
- Sudden line blockages can cause dangerous pressure buildup
- Hose whipping if connections fail
- Risk of blowback when cleaning or unclogging
- Stability issues:
- Tip-over risk if not properly stabilised
- Ground collapse under outriggers
- Material hazards:
- Concrete splash causing chemical burns
- Respiratory risks from concrete dust
- Eye injuries from splashing material
Key Safety Measures
Before delivery of the concrete pump, do a risk assessment and organise a safety briefing with everyone involved in the pump pour and construction workers on site.
- Always use certified operators.
- Check ground stability before setup.
- Use proper PPE (eye protection, gloves, steel-toed boots).
- Insist on clear communication between the pump operator and ground crew.
- Ensure proper cleanup and line-clearing procedures following safety guidelines.
With concrete pumping, It’s essential to comply with up-to-date industry standards. Flowmix can assist with all safety aspects.
Read: 5 DIY Concrete Pouring Dangers: When to Call A Professional
Our skilled operators are highly experienced with safety procedures for concrete line pumping. We save you the hassle and concern of hiring a third party or expecting an untrained operator to use the concrete pump.
Flowmix works with you to supply specific volumes and concrete mix for your project. You can have peace of mind knowing you will receive a timed delivery with the right volume and perfect consistency for your concrete requirements.
How Flowmix Can Help With Your Project
Flowmix has two plants, Gloucester and Walsall. We provide ready-mix concrete, mix on-site and liquid screed.
In addition, you can hire a 200′ concrete line pump to reduce manual labour and associated costs, increase efficiency, reduce wastage and clean up. Moreover, we also provide interlocking concrete blocks for temporary or permanent barriers.
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).
Flowmix Tewkesbury: 01684 217888 Flowmix Walsall: Tel: 01922 741731