There’s a good reason why ready-mix concrete has been a popular choice in the building industry for decades, both large and small projects. So let’s look at some of the benefits it provides over traditional on-site mixing methods, including time and cost savings, green credentials, and the role it plays in site safety.

Consistent quality

Ready mix concrete is manufactured in a controlled atmosphere and delivered on the site by the ready mix concrete suppliers. This ensures that each batch satisfies stringent manufacturing requirements. On-site mixing often results in some fluctuation, whereas ready mix provides uniform strength and durability.

This is because it was made with accurate measurements and strict quality control, so builders can be confident that the mix they receive will perform as predicted, lowering the chance of structural concerns and assuring a robust build.

Saves time

As the saying goes, “Time is money.” This is especially true in the construction industry, where time is often of importance. Ready mix concrete is delivered ready to use, eliminating the long on-site mixing and preparation process.

This helps building projects to proceed without unnecessary delays, keeping everything on track and enabling faster completion timelines. And tight deadlines are met more easily, resulting in faster project turnover and more production.

Saves you money

Costs have always been an important concern in construction. This is why ready mix concrete has long been a popular choice. ready mix keeps costs under control by decreasing labor and material waste while removing the need for on-site storage.

The precision employed in the mixing process guarantees that only the appropriate quantity of concrete is used, eliminating waste and lowering material costs, while the reduced demand for expert manpower for on-site mixing results in significant savings. So you can see why ready mix concrete is a wise, cost-effective choice for any building job.

Ready-mix concrete has environmental benefits

Ready mix concrete is an excellent solution for projects prioritizing sustainability, minimizing waste, and promoting efficient resource use. Its sustainability credentials are further enhanced because the ready-mix manufacturing process can contain recycled materials.

Low-carbon concretes also contribute to greener building by reducing carbon emissions by 30% to 100%.

Ready mix is highly versatile

Ready mix concrete can be used in various construction applications, from tiny residential homes to large-scale commercial projects. Its blend can be customized to suit different needs, providing strength and workability for any job without sacrificing quality or performance.

This adaptability guarantees that the concrete performs optimally for various construction applications, from foundations to decorative embellishments.

Structures constructed with ready-mix concrete require less maintenance over their lifetime. With fewer difficulties such as cracking and spalling, maintenance expenses are reduced, and repairs take less time.

This makes ready mix a long-term, cost-effective option for keeping structures in good shape and ensuring that buildings remain structurally strong and aesthetically beautiful for many years.

The construction site is much safer with ready-mix concrete

Safety is a primary consideration on any construction site, and ready-mix concrete substantially contributes to a safer workplace. The risk of accidents and injuries is reduced by eliminating on-site activities and physical handling.

The supply of ready-to-use concrete means that workers spend less time in potentially hazardous conditions, resulting in a safer and more efficient workplace.

This emphasis on safety protects workers and leads to a more efficient building process with fewer disruptions and delays.

Tips for a great experience with ready-mix concrete

When you order concrete from the concrete delivery company, you want the best experience, right? And it’s possible. You only need to consider a set of tips that include:

Add reinforcements

Concrete is a naturally robust construction material that may be strengthened and made more durable with reinforcement. Before pouring the concrete slab, arrange these reinforcements in a grid pattern on the base.

To prevent cracking in smaller projects, use wire mesh before pouring. Your concrete provider can recommend which reinforcements are ideal for your concrete mix.

Allow proper curing

After finishing the concrete, the following process is ‘curing.’ The curing process often takes up to 28 days, but the first few days are critical in ensuring the concrete surface is strong, resilient, and crack-free.

To ensure a crack-free surface, allow the moisture to evaporate gently. As a result, it is best to keep the surface damp, as this slows evaporation and produces stronger concrete.

Monitor the weather forecast for any potential cold fronts during the curing phase. If the temperature is expected to fall below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, cover the fresh concrete with an insulating blanket or polyethylene sheeting at least four millimeters thick.

Have control joints

Even if you follow the above-mentioned curing recommendations exactly, big surfaces such as patios and sidewalks are susceptible to shrinkage and cracking.

This cracking is primarily the result of shrinkage caused by temperature fluctuations and soil movement.

Control joints can prevent shrinkage by reducing the slab to roughly a quarter and strengthening the weakest areas to keep them from splitting. For a 4-inch-deep slab, create slab joints 8 to 12 feet apart.

Ensure the concrete is high-quality.

Another consideration before pouring concrete is its quality and inherent strength. If the concrete is made using low-quality materials, its strength and durability will be inadequate.

Maximizing aggregate size, gradation, and content may have little effect on concrete shrinkage if the aggregate is of poor quality.

When a large aggregate with poor qualities is mixed with a medium-sized aggregate with good properties, the concrete may shrink more, increasing the likelihood of cracking.

As a result, it is critical to find a reputable concrete mix delivery Gaithersburg professional that will supply you with a high-quality mix made with appropriate aggregates.

Parting shot

Using ready mix concrete is an excellent choice for any job, regardless of size. As you have seen, it comes with plenty of benefits. For you to get the most from the concrete you receive, ensure that you follow the above mentioned tips.