If you’re planning to pour and level concrete for a construction or home improvement project, ready-mix concrete is often an ideal option. However, before using it, it’s important to understand the basics. Here’s what you need to know prior to starting your project. 

A Quick Guide to Ready-Mix Concrete

What is it?

Often, the client will ask for unique proportions of aggregates, cement, and water and will receive their batch accordingly. It’ll be unique to their request and ready for immediate use.

What is the difference between ready-mix and normal concrete?

The main difference is the location of the mixing. Ready-mix concrete is mixed offsite in an industrial setting and then delivered, ensuring better quality and quick turnaround times. Normal concrete, on the other hand, will be delivered and then require onsite mixing, wasting precious hours.

What are the advantages?

Since it is pre-mixed with unique specifications, you can expect to see high-quality results that meet your needs. It also costs less than regular concrete, as you won’t need to purchase or rent equipment for mixing and storage. Finally, it will be ready for immediate use, making it convenient. 

How do I prepare for a delivery?  

While the concrete is prepared beforehand, you need to prepare the site. Do you know where you will store it before using it? Do you have the necessary clothing and tools for pouring the concrete safely and professionally? Finally, will the workers be ready to pour right when it comes? 

How can I ensure I have a sufficient supply?

Measure the space you need to fill accurately. If you are working on a larger job, ask for about 2% over what you have measured to account for any waste. When you are almost finished with a larger pour, measure the volume of concrete you have left to double-check that the quantity matches what you need. If it doesn’t, you will have to contact your supplier to mix the remaining concrete.

What is the curing period?

The curing process requires at least 15 days but will protect the concrete from chemicals, water, and hard use after it has fully hardened. As you pour your concrete, the water and cement create a chemical reaction called hydration. This causes the concrete to harden and will solidify its strength and durability. Hydration will only work if the concrete has been stored in a moist environment before use. If not, the concrete can dry out too early and stop the process, which will weaken the concrete.

When you’d like to order ready-mix concrete, reach out to Builder’s Concrete East in Windham County, CT. For more than 50 years, this company has provided clients with ready-mix concrete, as well as aggregates for buildings, sidewalks, driveways, and patios. For more details about their products, call (860) 456-4111 or visit them online.