Why use ready mix concrete?

Ready-mixed concrete, also known as RMC, refers to concrete that is manufactured in a batching plant or a factory and delivered to the construction site in a plastic or unhardened state. It is one of the most widely used construction materials due to several advantages it offers.

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Convenience and Time-Saving

Ready-mixed concrete eliminates the need for on-site mixing, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. With RMC, construction teams can focus on other tasks while the concrete is being delivered. It allows for efficient and faster construction, reducing overall project timelines.


Consistent Quality

RMC is produced under controlled conditions in a plant, ensuring uniformity in composition, strength, and other properties. The use of automated batching systems and rigorous quality control measures helps maintain consistent quality, which may be difficult to achieve with on-site mixing.


Accurate Mix Proportions

Ready-mixed concrete is manufactured based on pre-determined mix designs and proportions. This ensures the correct combination of cement, aggregates, water, and additives, resulting in a concrete mix with desired strength and durability. It eliminates the guesswork associated with on-site mixing and reduces the chances of errors.


Reduced Wastage

When concrete is mixed on-site, there is a higher probability of material wastage due to factors like inaccurate measurements, excessive water usage, and improper mixing. RMC production minimizes wastage since the quantities are precisely measured and mixed in a controlled environment.


Cost-Effective

While the initial cost of ready-mixed concrete may be slightly higher than on-site mixed concrete, the overall cost can be lower due to factors such as reduced labour requirements, improved construction efficiency, and minimized material wastage. It can lead to cost savings in terms of time, manpower, and resources.


Technical Expertise

Ready-mixed concrete is produced by skilled technicians who have expertise in mix design, quality control, and concrete technology. They ensure that the concrete meets the required specifications and performance criteria. This expertise can be particularly beneficial for large-scale projects or complex concrete applications.


Improved Worksite Safety

On-site concrete mixing involves handling raw materials, including cement, aggregates, and water, which can pose health and safety risks to workers. RMC eliminates the need for on-site mixing, reducing the exposure to such risks and creating a safer work environment.

 

Overall, the use of ready-mixed concrete offers convenience, consistent quality, accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and improved safety, making it a popular choice in various construction projects ranging from small residential buildings to large infrastructure developments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What different grades or mixes of concrete do you provide?

Mitchell Concrete are able to supply all the most commonly required mixes from our own Batching Plant located just outside of Truro. For helpfull advice on what mix you may require, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01209 820909.

What are the advantages of mini mix concrete?

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What are the advantages and disadvantages of using ready mixed concrete?

Using ready-mixed concrete offers several advantages, here are some of the key points to consider:

  1. Convenience and time-saving: Ready-mixed concrete is delivered to the construction site in a pre-mixed and ready-to-use form. This eliminates the need for on-site mixing, saving time and labour. It allows for efficient scheduling and can expedite construction projects.
  2. Consistency and quality control: Ready-mixed concrete is produced in controlled environments using precise formulas and quality control measures. This ensures consistent quality and performance, reducing the risk of variations in strength and durability.
  3. Reduced on-site storage and waste: With ready-mixed concrete, there is no need for on-site storage of raw materials like cement, aggregates, and water. This can free up space on the construction site and minimize waste from excess materials.
  4. Cost-effective for large projects: Ready-mixed concrete can be cost-effective for large-scale construction projects. The efficiency of production, transportation, and placement can result in cost savings compared to on-site mixing.
  5. Technological advancements: The ready-mixed concrete industry continues to evolve and adopt new technologies. This includes innovations in mix designs, admixtures, and curing methods, which can enhance performance, strength, and durability.

How long does ready mix concrete take to set?

The setting time of Ready Mixed Concrete depends upon a few different factors, these include:

The strength of the mix: The higher the cement content of a mix the faster it will generally set, the water content will also have an effect and water can be used to slow down the setting process to a degree but this may likely also affect the final strength achieved by the concrete.

Chemical additives can also be used to restrict the setting time of concrete, please contact us for more information or if you have a particular requirement.

How much does concrete cost?

The cost of our concrete is calculated upon the following factors:

  • The strength of mix required
  • The quantity of concrete required
  • The delivery distance to your site
  • Your access requirements and size of truck which will be used to make the delivery for you

We are very happy to give you a quote for your requirements when you call or email, just contact us!

How do I order ready mixed concrete?

You can contact us by telephone on 01209 820909 or alternatively just email us at sales@mitchellconcrete.co.uk.

We are pleased to help with any pricing, queries or questions. Our office hours are 7:30am to 4:00pm from Monday to Friday, messages or emails received outside of these times will be repsonded to as soon as possible on the following working day.

What are the most common ready mix concrete applications?

Some of the most common applications of ready-mix concrete include:

Foundations: Ready-mix concrete is widely used in the construction of building foundations, whether it’s for residential, commercial, or industrial structures. It provides a strong and stable base for the entire building.

Slabs and Floors: Ready-mix concrete is commonly used for constructing slabs and floors, such as basement slabs, garage floors, and industrial flooring. It can be poured and leveled easily, providing a smooth and durable surface.

Columns and Beams: Ready-mix concrete is used to create structural columns and beams in buildings and bridges. It offers high compressive strength and can be easily molded into the desired shapes and sizes.

Walls: Both load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls in construction projects often utilize ready-mix concrete. It provides strength, stability, and fire resistance to the walls, ensuring structural integrity.

Pavements and Roads: Ready-mix concrete is commonly used for constructing pavements, sidewalks, driveways, and roads. It can withstand heavy traffic loads and provides a long-lasting, smooth surface for vehicles and pedestrians.

Precast Elements: Many precast elements, such as precast walls, beams, columns, and panels, are made using ready-mix concrete. These precast components offer time and cost savings, as they can be manufactured off-site and then transported to the construction site.

Bridges and Infrastructure: Ready-mix concrete is extensively used in the construction of bridges, dams, tunnels, and other infrastructure projects. Its high strength and durability make it suitable for withstanding heavy loads and harsh environmental conditions.

Decorative and Architectural Applications: Ready-mix concrete can be used for various decorative and architectural purposes, including stamped concrete, colored concrete, exposed aggregate finishes, and textured surfaces. It offers versatility in design and can enhance the aesthetic appeal of structures.

It’s worth noting that the specific applications of ready-mix concrete may vary depending on regional construction practices, climate conditions, and project requirements.

How long does ready mix concrete last?

The longevity of ready-mix concrete can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of materials used, curing conditions, environmental exposure, and maintenance.

Under normal conditions, properly mixed and placed ready-mix concrete can last for many decades without significant degradation. In fact, concrete structures like buildings, bridges, and highways are designed to have a service life of 50 years or more.

To maximize the lifespan of ready-mix concrete, proper curing and maintenance practices are crucial. Curing involves keeping the concrete moist and at the right temperature during the early stages of its hardening process, which helps it develop strength and durability.

Regular inspections, maintenance, and timely repairs can also prevent or address any issues that may arise. In summary, the longevity of ready-mix concrete can vary, but with proper construction techniques, quality materials, and appropriate maintenance, it can last for several decades or more.

Contact us to discuss your project

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