Ready mix concrete delivery is a vital service for homeowners, contractors, and construction projects of any size. However, if this is your first time ordering or using ready-mix concrete, the process may seem difficult. The order’s complexity, technical jargon, and logistics may leave you unclear of what measures to take.
But do not worry. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the ready mix concrete delivery process and show you how to approach it with confidence.
Whether you’re working on a little DIY project, a driveway, or a larger construction project, knowing how this service works will make your experience easier and more successful.
Why should you go for ready mix concrete?
Choosing ready mix concrete has several advantages:
Consistency: The mixture is made under regulated conditions, ensuring that the cement, water, and aggregate ratios are consistent, resulting in a uniform and high-quality product.
Efficiency: Ordering ready-mix concrete removes the need to mix huge amounts of concrete on-site. This can save you time and effort, particularly on large or complex projects.
Precision: The concrete mix is made to your exact requirements, so you don’t have to worry about under or overmixing the material.
Cost-effective: Ordering ready-mix concrete can sometimes be less expensive than mixing it yourself because it saves on labor and material waste.
Now that you’ve learned about ready-mix concrete and its benefits, let’s take a look at how to order and have it delivered.
Plan your project and calculate the amount of concrete you need
One of the most important elements in the ready-mix concrete delivery process is determining how much concrete you require. It is critical to have an exact estimate to avoid buying too much or too little concrete, which can result in additional expenses or delays.
To determine the amount of concrete you need for your project, measure the area you intend to cover. This includes calculating the dimensions of your location, such as its length, width, and depth.
Once you have those measurements, use a concrete calculator to estimate the total amount of concrete you need, which is usually expressed in cubic yards.
Remember to order a little extra concrete in case some of it is wasted during the pouring or spilling process. Your supplier may recommend ordering 10% more than your initial estimate to provide for any unexpected needs.
Choose the right mix for your project.
Concrete mixes must be tailored to specific projects. Ready-mix concrete can be tailored to the specifications of your project. For example, a driveway may require a different mix than a foundation or patio.
To guarantee you’re getting the correct concrete mix for your project, talk to your supplier and explain the specifics of your job. Factors to consider while finding the proper combination are:
Concrete strength which is measured in pounds per square inch (psi). Make sure to discuss the necessary strength for your project.
Durability: If you’re working in an area with extreme weather or high traffic, you may want a more durable and wear-resistant concrete mix.
Additives: A variety of additives and admixtures can be added to concrete to improve workability, shorten curing time, or increase durability.
Your supplier will offer the appropriate concrete mix for your individual project requirements. To avoid complications down the line, ensure that you follow the recommended specifications.
Prepare your site for concrete delivery.
Before the truck arrives, you must prepare the place for the concrete pour. The area where the concrete will be put must be well prepared and prepped. This may include:
Preparing the base: In some cases, you may need to lay a gravel base or erect a form around the perimeter of the pour.
Clearing obstacles: Remove any debris, tools, or impediments that may impede the concrete pour.
Setting up equipment: Depending on your project, you may require specific tools and equipment to help spread and smooth the concrete once it has been poured.
Make sure you finish all of these preparations before the delivery truck arrives so that the process runs as smoothly as possible.
Schedule your delivery
When the site is ready for concrete placement, the following step is to schedule delivery.
Begin by coordinating your delivery timeframes with the construction plan to ensure rapid pouring when the concrete arrives. Maintain open contact with your concrete suppliers, detailing your project’s requirements, such as the type of mix and quantity you need for your project.
It is critical to create contracts that specify delivery schedules and contain consequences for tardiness. Include buffer times to allow for unanticipated disturbances without derailing your project.
Regular coordination meetings with site managers and logistical teams will enable you to handle possible difficulties quickly. Finally, create emergency contingency plans to minimize any disruptions to your timeframe, ensuring that your project works smoothly and efficiently.
Pour the concrete
When the ready-mix concrete delivery truck arrives, the driver will start unloading the concrete into a chute or conveyor system. You must have a strategy in place for how the concrete will be distributed throughout your site.
If you have a modest project, you might be able to move the concrete by hand with shovels, rakes, and trowels. For larger projects, you may require additional assistance or equipment, such as wheelbarrows or a concrete pump.
You should closely supervise the pouring process to ensure that the concrete is put uniformly. As soon as the pour is finished, smooth and level the surface to ensure proper curing.
Give the concrete time to cure
The next stage after pouring and leveling the concrete is to cure it. Curing is the process of keeping concrete damp until it sets and reaches its full strength. The curing process can take several days to a week, depending on the weather and the mix you have used.
You should also use this time to polish the surface of the concrete. This could involve techniques like smoothing, texturing, or applying a decorative finish.
Parting shot
If you didn’t know how to order your concrete mix, now you know. For you to have an easy time, work with experienced ready mix concrete delivery Montgomery County experts who will hold your hand and show you the ropes.
