Are you gearing up for a construction project and need concrete advice from a ready mix concrete supplier?
Finding the right ready mix concrete supplier can make or break your build if that’s the case! The last thing you want is a concrete supplier letting you down or sending the wrong ready mix concrete.
In this guide, we’ll pour over everything you need to know about what to look for from a ready mix concrete supplier.
What is Ready Mix Concrete and Why Choose It?
It might seem obvious to construction companies but if you’re an individual planning a concrete home project, we will provide the definition of ready mix concrete.
The Definition Of Ready Mix Concrete
Ready mix concrete consists of a carefully measured blend of cement, aggregates (sand and gravel or crushed stone), water, and often chemical admixtures.
The production method sets ready mix concrete apart – it’s mixed off-site and delivered to the construction site in a freshly mixed state, typically in revolving drum trucks.
The key features of ready mix concrete are its consistency and quality control. Each batch is mixed according to specific recipes that meet the exact requirements of a particular construction project.
Each batch could include strength, workability, setting time, and durability specifications. Computerised batching systems ensure that each load maintains the same high quality, eliminating variations that can occur with on-site mixing.
The Advantages Of Ready Mix over Site-Mixed Concrete
Ready mix concrete offers several significant advantages over concrete mixed on-site:
- Quality Control: Flowmix Gloucester and Walsall plants have sophisticated equipment and trained staff to ensure precise measurements and consistent mixing. This level of control is difficult to achieve on a construction site.
- Time and Labor Savings: Using ready mix concrete eliminates the need for on-site material storage, mixing equipment, and additional labour required for mixing, meaning faster construction timelines.
- Reduced Waste: Batch plants can more accurately calculate required quantities, reducing excess waste.
- Variety of Mixes: A ready mix supplier offer a wide range of specialised concrete mixes that would be challenging to produce on-site.
- Environmental Benefits: Centralised production allows for better dust control and more efficient use of resources, reducing the environmental impact compared to site mixing.
- Consistency: Every batch of ready mix concrete is mixed to the exact specifications, ensuring uniform quality throughout a project
Common Ready Mix Applications in Construction
Ready mix concrete is versatile and used in multiple construction applications, such as foundations, structural elements like beams and walls, and infrastructures such as highways and tunnels.
Ready mix is ideal for precast elements like barrier walls, marine structures exposed to saltwater, industrial floors, underwater concreting and airport runways.
Ready mix concrete is popular for many residential projects, such as driveways and patios.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing A Ready Mix Concrete Supplier
Do you know what to look for when choosing a ready mix supplier? If not, the following is a helpful checklist.
#1: Reputation and Experience in the Industry
A supplier’s reputation reflects the company’s reliability and product quality. Look for companies with an excellent track record in the industry.
Experienced ready mix concrete suppliers like Flowmix have likely dealt with a vast range of construction projects and can offer valuable insights.
Check online reviews, ask for recommendations, and inquire about their years in business.
A well-established ready mix supplier is more likely to understand local construction needs and regulations. We can advise on topics like planning permission.
They’re also more likely to be around for the long haul, which is crucial if you need support or have questions post-project.
#2: Quality Control Measures and Certifications
High-quality concrete is crucial for the success and safety of any construction project. Reputable suppliers like Flowmix have stringent quality control processes in place. That includes: –
- Precise measurement systems
- Regular testing of materials
- Well-maintained equipment
Look for a ready mix concrete supplier certified by industry organisations such as the British Ready Mixed Concrete Association (BRMCA).
These certifications indicate that the supplier meets specific standards for product quality, plant operations, and environmental compliance. Don’t hesitate to ask about their quality assurance procedures and how they handle any issues that may arise. Our friendly and experienced team at Flowmix is happy to answer your questions
#3: Delivery Capabilities and Fleet Size
The ability to deliver concrete when and where you need it is crucial. A supplier’s fleet size and condition can impact their ability to meet your schedule, especially for large or time-sensitive projects.
Ask about their delivery radius, average response times, and ability to handle rush orders.
A more extensive fleet generally means more flexibility and reliability. However, you might consider the age and maintenance of their trucks. Modern mixer trucks with GPS tracking can provide more accurate delivery estimates.
Another question is whether the concrete supplier’s drivers can manage tricky delivery spots, such as narrow tracks, awkward site access, turning areas, etc.
Flowmix routinely offers timed delivery slots, and we can track deliveries with our cloud-based software.
Stuff happens, so ask about their policies for delays or breakdowns to ensure they have established contingency plans.
#4: Range of Concrete Mix Designs Offered
A good concrete supplier should offer a wide range of concrete mix designs to suit various applications. That includes different concrete strength grades, speciality mixes for harsh environments (like marine-grade concrete), and mixes with specific properties like rapid setting or high flowability.
They should also be able to create custom concrete mixes to meet unique project requirements. Ask the company whether they can add various concrete additives or supplementary materials for enhanced performance or sustainability.
Another consideration that may be important to you is whether the company provides sustainable and eco-friendly concrete options. That may include concrete mixes using recycled aggregates and low-carbon types of cement.
The Ready Mix Concrete Ordering Process
You’re ready to order your ready mix concrete. Here is what to expect from your concrete supplier.
How to Accurately Estimate Your Concrete Needs
Measure the area precisely, including length, width, and depth and factor in the shape (rectangular, circular, or irregular).
Add 5-10% to your calculation to account for potential waste or spillage and consider slopes or variations in thickness.
Once you have accurate measurements, consult your contractor or the concrete supplier for verification. Call our experienced and friendly team, and we will do our best to help you.
How to Place an Order with a Concrete Supplier
Contact the concrete supplier well before the required date to provide project details, such as location, date, time, and volume needed.
Specify the concrete mix design or performance requirements. If you aren’t sure, the supplier will ask the right questions to ascertain your needs.
Discuss any site access issues or special equipment needs (like pumps)
Finally, confirm the order details in writing to avoid misunderstandings and ask about cancellation policies and weather contingencies.
What to Expect on Delivery Day
Being prepared for concrete delivery helps ensure a smooth process. Before delivery, know the supplier’s policy on rejected loads or excess concrete.
Ensure the site is accessible for the concrete mixer truck and that your forms, reinforcement, and finishing tools are ready.
Contact the concrete supplier to discuss a contingency plan if there’s torrential rain or a sudden heatwave. If, on the day, the temperature is above 75 degrees Fahrenheit, leaving it until a cooler day is best to avoid cracking and premature curing.
Concrete workability in hot or wet conditions is tricky and can reduce concrete strength.
Assign someone to guide the truck driver to the pour location, be prepared to check the delivery ticket for accuracy, and plan to test the concrete if required (slump test, air content, etc.).
Be ready to start placing and finishing the concrete immediately upon arrival.
Tips for Working with Ready Mix Concrete Suppliers
Discover how to get the best from the ready mix concrete supplier you work with.
Build Strong Relationships with Concrete Suppliers
It’s essential to build a good relationship with your concrete supplier. The most vital ingredient is good communication, ensuring the smooth execution of your project.
Can you get expert advice on concrete specifications, mix designs, and application techniques? Is there an option for priority service during peak seasons or tight schedules?
Finally, how does the ready mix concrete supplier resolve the issue if something goes wrong? Here at Flowmix, we put the customer first.
Our team of experienced internal staff and drivers are part of the Flowmix family. We pride ourselves on hiring people with excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
Negotiate Prices and Contracts
We know it’s not British to negotiate, but it can lead to improved pricing and terms, especially if you have ongoing concrete requirements.
Negotiation should always be win-win. Be open to value-added services that might offset higher prices, and remember, the lowest price isn’t always the best deal if it compromises quality or reliability.
Conclusion
Purchasing from the right ready mix concrete supplier is crucial for the success of your concrete construction projects. Considering factors like concrete quality control, reliability, and service range, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision.
Remember, the perfect supplier isn’t just about getting the mix right – it’s about building a solid foundation for your entire project.
Ready to take the next step? Contact the Flowmix team for friendly and experienced guidance on your concrete project.
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