Using Ready Mix Concrete? Know The Common Types And Advantages
Ready mix concrete is a popular choice for construction projects of all sizes. It’s a versatile and convenient material that offers a number of advantages over traditional site-mixed concrete. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of ready mix concrete available and the benefits it can bring to your next project.
What is Ready Mix Concrete?
Ready mix concrete is a type of concrete that is pre-mixed and delivered to your construction site by a concrete truck. This eliminates the need for you to measure, mix, and transport the various ingredients yourself, saving you time, labor, and resources. Ready mix concrete is produced in a controlled environment at a concrete plant, ensuring consistent quality and strength.
Types of Ready Mix Concrete
There are three main types of ready mix concrete:
Central Mixed Concrete: This type of concrete is completely mixed at a central plant and delivered to the worksite in a sealed agitator truck. Central mixed concrete offers the highest level of quality and consistency, making it ideal for projects requiring high-strength concrete or architectural applications.
Shrink Mixed Concrete: In shrink mixed concrete, some of the dry ingredients are combined at the plant and then additional water is added at the job site. This allows for some on-site adjustments to the concrete’s slump, which is a measure of its workability. Shrink mixed concrete is a good option for projects where some degree of workability is required.
Transit Mixed Concrete: This type of concrete is partially mixed at the plant with the remaining dry ingredients added to the truck’s mixer drum during transport to the worksite. This mixing process continues at the job site until the concrete reaches the desired consistency. Transit mixed concrete is a cost-effective option for many projects, as it offers some flexibility in terms of workability.
Advantages of Using Ready Mix Concrete
There are several advantages to using ready mix concrete for your construction project:
Convenience: Ready mix concrete eliminates the need for on-site batching and mixing, saving you time and labor costs.
Quality Control: Since ready mix concrete is produced in a controlled environment, it ensures consistent quality and strength throughout every batch.
Reduced Waste: Ready mix concrete minimises the risk of over-ordering or improperly mixing materials, reducing waste and lowering costs.
Sustainability: Ready mix concrete producers often utilise recycled materials in their concrete mix, making it a more sustainable construction option.
Expertise: Ready mix concrete suppliers have the expertise and experience to advise you on the best type of concrete for your specific project needs.
Safety: Using ready mix concrete reduces the risks associated with handling and storing loose concrete materials on-site.
Choosing the Right Ready Mix Concrete for Your Project
The best type of ready mix concrete for your project will depend on several factors, including:
The size and scope of your project
The required strength and durability of the concrete
The desired workability of the concrete
Your budget
It’s important to consult with a qualified concrete supplier to discuss your project requirements and determine the most suitable type of ready mix concrete for your needs.
Conclusion
Ready mix concrete is a versatile and convenient construction material that offers a number of advantages over traditional site-mixed concrete. By understanding the different types of ready mix concrete available and the benefits it can bring to your project, you can make an informed decision about the best concrete solution for your needs.
I hope this blog post has been helpful. If you have any questions about ready mix concrete or our concrete products and services, please don’t hesitate to contact Erewash Concrete.