Ready-mix concrete is prepared on-site with a combination of cement, sand, and gravel. It can be used for construction projects such as building foundations, swimming pools, and basement walls. Ready mix concrete is used in construction projects where there is no time to prepare the concrete by mixing the ingredients on site. Such concrete type can be delivered by truck, rail, or barge, depending on the location of the project and the availability of transportation methods.
When compared to other types of concrete, using ready-mix concrete has many advantages. It is much easier to work with than traditional concrete, making it more comfortable for inexperienced DIYers to get started with their projects.
So, let us now explore in detail what is concrete mix ready is, what are its benefits, and what are different use cases of ready-mix concrete.
What is Ready Mix Concrete?
Ready-mix concrete, also known as pre-mixed concrete and pre-cast, is a manufactured product that is made to look like natural stone and concrete. It is ideal for multiple applications like commercial, industrial, and residential construction.
Ready mix concrete provides many benefits over self-mixed concrete that you have to mix on site. Ready-mix concrete can be delivered quickly, saving time and money for construction companies. The material is also less costly than self-mixing concrete and can help save money on construction costs because it reduces labor costs associated with mixing dry ingredients on-site.
What Are the Benefits of Using Ready-Mix Concrete?
Ready-mix concrete offers many advantages over natural stone or other existing materials. Here are just a few:
Improved aesthetics
Ready-mix concrete looks like natural stone so it blends right in with your home’s landscaping. This makes it easier to install than other materials and reduces costs because you don’t have to hire extra people to help install it.
Durability
Ready-mix concrete can also last longer than other building materials because it doesn’t require additional maintenance or repairs over time. The durability of ready-mix concrete is further enhanced by its ability to absorb impact during installation without cracking or breaking apart like other types of mortar or cement do. It is resistant to winds, explosions, fire hazards, etc. In addition, no small beasts or termites can harm the building made of such concrete. Therefore, eliminating any additional need for repairs. The best thing is ready-mix concrete can resist heavy moisture, high temperature, and varying weather conditions.
Versatility
Ready mix concrete can be used on any type of surface from floors to walls and even stairs. You can then paint the surface at any time during construction if you choose not to use tile. It is a flexible concrete and easy to mold in different shapes. No matter whether you want to construct a pillar, driveway, or sidewalk, ready-mix is the right concrete type.
Cost
Ready-mix concrete is much cheaper than traditional methods of making concrete. You don’t have to buy the equipment or have it shipped in from another state or country. With ready-mix concrete, you can pay between $3 and $5 per yard, while you could spend up to $80 per yard if you made your own at home or hired out a crew from a local company.
On the other hand, if you consider brick for construction, it would cost you much higher. Even if it takes a lot of time, effort, money, and resources to supply to the required location.
Speed
With ready-mix concrete, you don’t have to worry about having sufficient time to complete the job due to waiting on deliveries or other factors that may delay the completion of your project. You can have the whole thing done in one day with ready-mix concrete!
Consistency
It can occasionally be challenging to produce regular batches when you handle the concrete work manually. The reason is dry cement needs water for every concrete batch. Here, the ideal choice is ready-mixed concrete. It can fulfill the construction project needs of a particular concrete texture or if there is an immediate requirement for multiple batches of concrete. Your neighborhood concrete provider can produce huge ready-mixed concrete. They use contemporary equipment and tactics to ensure equal consistency throughout the construction project.
Great Quality
Traditional concrete does not assure the mix quality and it is something expected when constructing high-rise and robust buildings. Poor quality concrete not only puts the facility in danger but can lead to serious outcomes too.
But all this does not happen with ready-mix concrete. Its quality and consistency are guaranteed. As a result, a sturdier and more durable establishment is achieved.
Safety
The ingredients used in ready-mix concrete are safe for anyone who handles them without protective gear like gloves and goggles. Unlike traditional methods where these ingredients are mixed by hand using shovels and wheelbarrows.
Different Use Cases of Ready-Mix Concrete
- The one common place where the use of ready-mix concrete is usual is the residential or commercial foundations. These often need poured walls for a strong structural foundation.
- Ready-mixed concrete is frequently used in foundation piles, retaining walls, bridge supports, and tunnels. It is because it can be easily poured.
- Large buildings built using steel need ready-mix concrete to ensure a powerful floor or base of the building.
- Also, the ease of installation and versatility of ready-mix concrete makes it ideal for constructing small walkways, sidewalks, etc.
- In addition, heavy industrial places like trucks, highways, airports, and elevated roads are made from ready-mixed concrete. The reason is it can handle heavy weights and is durable.
Also Read: How to Construct a Concrete Driveway
Final Words
To conclude, you need not worry about your construction projects when ready-mix concrete is available. It is an ideal choice for building anything from large builds in industrial areas to sidewalks, and so on. It is easy to use and customized according to the construction requirements. However, it can be a bit pricey compared to conventional concrete. So, analyze the purpose, quantity of material, ingredients used to create the mix, and more. Furthermore, don’t hesitate to connect with the best ready-mix concrete suppliers for a better understanding of the requirements and to choose the ideal solution.
