Ready Mix Concrete in Birmingham

Cement is one of the ingredients that make up concrete. It is a dry powder and usually constitutes 10-15% of concrete. Concrete is made by mixing aggregates (sand and/or stone for instance) with cement and water.

Firstly, this depends on the type of concrete used. If the concrete is permeable or pervious, then it allows water to soak through to the earth below – thus enabling trees and plants to access the moisture. Secondly, if the concrete has been made from recycled materials such as rubble, it is much more sustainable.

Lastly, there’s the fact that concrete is so long-lasting. Because it needs so little upkeep, this actually ensures maintenance is kept to a minimum – meaning once it’s down it rarely needs anything done to it. Therefore, the production and manufacture side of concrete has a lower impact on our environment in comparison to other building materials.

No. Concrete and mortar are not the same. Yes, they share similarities in their ingredients, but whereas mortar is used to hold things together (bricks for instance), concrete is used structurally to form foundations and building supports. Concrete is stronger and more durable than mortar.

Calculating how much concrete you need for a job can – at first - seem like a daunting task. However, generally it is quite simple. You need to calculate the measurements for width, length, and thickness of the space you want to fill with concrete. Our concrete calculator can help you do this – or you can call one of our team and they’ll be able to help you.

We offer eight different types of concrete at Instant Mix Concrete, and which one you choose depends on the job you’re working on. You’ll need to take into consideration what the ground conditions are, what the structure’s purpose is, and what type of project it is. If you’re not sure what type of concrete you need, don’t hesitate to get in touch and we will be more than happy to help you. Alternatively click here to have a read of the different types of concrete we supply.

Although not the perfect condition for building work of any type, it is not always possible to avoid pouring concrete in the rain. For the best results, and strongest finish, rain should be avoided. However, if you are able to keep the cavity that you are filling as dry as possible before the concrete is applied, then it can be done. Any excess water that appears on the top of the concrete should be gently removed by wiping it away with a hosepipe or similar. Do not brush it into the mix as this will weaken your concrete and could result in cracking or crumbling.

Unfortunately, there can be no guarantee that your concrete won’t crack but it is possible to do your best to make sure you keep cracks at bay. Follow these steps for optimal concrete application and minimal cracking –

1. Use the right amount of water. Both using too much or too little water can result in cracks
2. Make sure you choose the right concrete mix for your task. We offer eight types and we can advise you about which one will be right for your job
3. Never pour concrete onto ground that is frozen or under snow. That’s because when the ground thaws, it will move, and this could result in cracks in your concrete
4. Use adequate control joints so that, once installed, your concrete will be able to almost ‘breathe’ with the weather as it changes throughout the year by subtly shrinking and expanding

There needs to be space for our Instant Mix Concrete vehicles to park so that the team can deliver your concrete. Our vehicles are about 3 metres wide and approximately 10 metres long so please make sure there is space outside your property. If you are having your concrete pumped onto site we will need to park the concrete mixer too – so a 20-metre parking space for both vehicles is needed.

Our concrete pump extends to 50 metres so remote areas can be accessed. If you need your concrete delivering to a location that is more than 50 metres away from the pump vehicle, please call us to discuss this, as it may be possible.

We use our pumps to deliver concrete to difficult-to-access or remote locations. Otherwise, our concrete can be delivered by wheelbarrow. You will need your own labourers for this, but we can help with wheelbarrow delivery. If you are unsure whether you need your concrete pumping or not, please give us a call and we will be able to advise you.