Factors To Consider When Ordering Ready Mixed Concrete

Ready-mixed concrete is a solution that is either mixed at a central batching plant or in a truck capable of mixing concrete ingredients while in transit.

In simple terms, ready-mixed concrete is delivered to the construction site in a specially designed transit mixer. It continuously rotates while on the road and mixes the concrete until it reaches the designated location.

With so many companies and variations, it can be intimidating to choose the right concrete mix for your project. Generally, the concrete experts will help you with all your queries and help you select the right concrete mixture according to your requirements.

However, knowing the basics about selecting the perfect Mixed concrete solution will help you compare the substantial companies area and ensure that order quantity and quality are correct.

Here are the top 7 factors that you should consider when placing your concrete order.

What To Consider Before Placing A Concrete Order?

1. Quantity Of Concrete

The first thing one needs to consider before placing a concrete order is the quantity of concrete that your project will require.

The volume of concrete is generally measured in cubic meters or yards. Several companies offer you a concrete calculator, which makes the calculation process quick and straightforward.

All you have to do is enter the length, width, and depth of the construction area, and the calculator will automatically determine the required substantial quantity.

Moreover, it is also important to note that the concrete experts recommend ordering 5-10% extra concrete to prevent a last-minute shortage.

2. Compressive Strength Of Concrete

No construction project is the same; hence neither is the concrete mix required for that particular project. Depending on the project, you will need to inform your concrete contractor about the following –

• Time duration of the pouring process.
• Type of construction.
• Temperature – If the temperature is low, it is recommended that your concrete contains 5% air entertainment.
• Types of work where you plan to pour concrete, i.e., foundation slab, floor slab, pavements, etc.
• Time of interval between the two consecutive deliveries of RMC.

3. Concrete Durability

Just like concrete strength, the durability of concrete also varies according to the project type. E.g., when concrete is being used for frequently utilized structures like driveways, bridges, etc., the durability of concrete needs to be high.

On the other hand, there are some projects where constructors do not require high durability of concrete, but the exposure condition needs to be highly durable. The water-cement ratio has to be maintained accordingly.

For high-standard and durable concrete, it is important to ensure that the ratio between water, cement, and aggregates is accurate. If not, the concrete may lose its strength, and its durability might increase.

4. Quality of Ingredients

In addition to the above point and maintaining an accurate ratio between the ingredients, it is also important to ensure that the quality of ingredients is up to the mark.
Constructors are often deceived with inexpensive Ready-mixed concrete prices offered by the concrete suppliers. However, these reduced prices are often due to the poor quality of concrete ingredients.

Ask your supplier about their source of ingredients. If they order ingredients from reputed companies in the market, the quality of Concrete services in Seattle will be appropriate.

5. Testing Of Concrete

Industry standards recommend that ready mix concrete dealers have appropriate test facilities on their premises to conduct routine tests such as concrete slump testing, concrete cube testing, and so on.

With regular checking, you can double-check the workability and strength of ordered concrete.

6. Aggregate & Slump

Two of the most common terms you will encounter while working with concrete are aggregate and slump. Aggregate is defined as the size of the coarse aggregate that is needed for your mixed concrete, whereas slump is the consistency of the concrete when it is being applied.

Aggregate depends on the spacing of reinforcement bars and the dimensions of the area. On the other hand, the slump is determined by the spacing between reinforcement bars and the slope of the construction area.

7. Delivery Information

Finally, after determining all the factors mentioned above, you should take into account the delivery information, which includes the following:

• Name and number of the ready mixed concrete plant.
• Date and serial number of the ticket
• Truck Number
• Time of delivery
• Additional information such as time of loading, extra water required on the site, etc.
• Name of the purchaser and location of the site
• Mix design details
• The quantity of concrete in the cubic meter
• Time of loading

Conclusion

The ready-mixed concrete is the foundation of most concrete structures, and it plays an important role in determining the strength and durability of your structure.

Therefore, before plain concrete order, it is important to take all the factors mentioned above into consideration. Other than that, If you need mixed concrete or other concrete solutions like concrete pumps, on-site mixing solutions, it is important to go with a trusted supplier in your area.

They can perfectly guide you while choosing concrete mix for your project, ensure timely delivery and the highest quality of the concrete mix.