Concrete is always in demand because of its affordability, durability, malleability, and rot resistance. If you are about to buy ready-mix concrete for a commercial construction job or a residential project, it’s important to do your research to avoid wasting time and money. Use the following tips to ensure you purchase exactly what you need.

4 Tips for Ordering Concrete

1. Measure the Dimensions

Take dimensions in cubic yards rather than square feet, since that’s how concrete is measured. Multiply the length and width. If you multiply the resulting number by the depth, this formula will determine how many cubic yards of concrete you require.

2. Determine What Other Ingredients You Need

Select ingredients you wish to add to your ready-mix concrete order, such as corrosion inhibitors, decorative aggregates, and fiber reinforcements. Also ensure the aggregate’s thickness meets the American Concrete Institute (ACI) standard. The institute specifies maximum aggregate size.

3. Keep the Supplier’s Location in Mind

Work with a local supplier to avoid high transportation costs and issues with concrete curing times. Remember that ready-mix concrete must be poured within 90 minutes of mixing or after 300 cement tank rotations. It cures faster in hot weather and risks water separation if the truck has a tub instead of a spin load.

4. Learn the Compressive Strength

Make certain your concrete order features the desired psi (pounds per square inch) to prevent hazards during building. If your concrete is going to form columns and walls, for example, you need a psi between 3,000 and 5,000. If slabs will endure routine freeze/thaw cycles, you need at least 4,000 psi to prevent stress fractures and cracks.
 

Purchase concrete from Miller’s Ready Mix Concrete & Block in Gloversville, NY. They have served professionals and homeowners throughout Mayfield and upstate New York for over 40 years. Known for quality materials and unmatched customer service, this company offers a range of products to streamline projects, including concrete blocks and aggregates. Call (518) 661-5601 today to place an order or learn more about their products and services online.