Whether you’re building a retaining wall or planning the pool of your dreams, ready-mix concrete is a convenient, durable material that can be used in a variety of residential and commercial jobs. However, there’s more to this product than you may realize. Here is a brief look at the way it is made and why it’s ideal for so many construction projects.

How Ready-Mix Concrete Is Made

Ready-mix concrete is composed of paste, a mix of cement and water, and aggregates, a mix of sand and rock. When these two elements combine, they form strong concrete. It sounds simple, but to form a long-lasting product, the paste and aggregates must be proportioned and mixed correctly. A concrete mixture with too much paste won’t be as durable, and a mix with too little will produce a rough, porous surface.

Important Considerations

Concrete is a ubiquitous construction material, but you’ll need to plan ahead before you use it; after the batching process, ready-mix must be placed within 30 to 45 minutes. Otherwise, the workability and slump of your mix will be reduced.

It’s also important to remember that concrete tends to shrink as it cures. Generally, the larger the aggregate, the less the final product will shrink. If you’re working on a larger construction project, partner with an experienced contractor to make sure you’re accounting for and minimizing shrinkage. They may recommend cutting control joints into your slabs before they cure or using tried-and-true mix formulas.

Ready-mix concrete is a part of so many construction projects because it’s reliable, durable, and easy to use. With over 50 years of experience and a dedicated team of professionals, Builder’s Concrete East in Windham, CT, is one of the region’s top concrete suppliers. Whether you’re looking for ready-mix concrete, concrete pavers, or a fleet of trucks for your next project, call (860) 456-4111 today. Visit them online to discover their specialty products.