If you’re currently in the midst of a renovation, there’s a possibility that you will need to order some ready mix concrete. It might be for a new floor or perhaps it’s to create a base for a shed or garden room. Ordering concrete isn’t something that you’re likely to have done before, so the whole process is probably a bit of a mystery. But don’t worry, this blog will take you through the things you need to do before you put in your order.

Understand what type of concrete you need

Concrete comes in different mixes, so you need to know what type to get for your project. C20 and C25 are the mixes that are commonly used for domestic foundations, floors and driveways. C25 is stronger than C20, so this is preferable for more heavyweight structures.

Do you need anything adding to the mix to improve the suitability or appearance of your concrete? Mixes can be adapted or have plasticisers added to improve the concrete’s flow. This can be a good way to make sure poured concrete fills awkwardly shaped spaces without leaving gaps. It will also be better at levelling and compacting itself – leaving you with less manual work to do. If you’re installing a floor or driveway, you may also need fibres adding to create a more durable, crack-resistant surface.

If you’re installing underfloor heating or insulation or are installing a polished concrete floor, you will also need a layer of screed applying over your concrete subbase. Screed uses similar ingredients to concrete but the aggregates are much finer, so you end up with a much smoother surface. People often confuse concrete and screed but it’s important to know which you need before ordering concrete.

Work out how much concrete you need

Before ordering concrete, you’ll also need to know the volume in cubic metres that you need. This can be worked out by measuring the area you intend to concrete. You’ll need to multiply the length by the width and multiply this by the depth. Most concrete suppliers will have a minimum order amount. This is often around 0.5m³, which is roughly what you’d need for a shed base.

It’s important that you don’t under order as this could mess up your plans and cause extra stress. But should you over order, you may get charged for the excess. If you’re not sure about the exact amount, you might be better with a volumetric concrete delivery, as you’ll only pay for what you use. This is mixed onsite, so it often provides you with the best consistency for your needs.

Research suppliers for ordering concrete

Wherever you live, there’s likely to be more than one company that can deliver to you. So, it’s worth comparing the cost and doing a few checks to make sure you’re ordering a quality product.

Although you can’t be expected to know what quality concrete looks like, there are a few indicators to help you choose a high-grade product and supplier. Take a look on their website. Are they certified by the Quality Scheme for Ready-Mixed Concrete (QSRMC) and are their products verified by the British Standards Kitemark Scheme for Ready- Mixed Concrete (BSI)? And are they a member of the British Ready-Mixed Concrete Association (BRMCA)?

Prepare for the delivery

There are likely to be extra charges if the delivery truck has to hang around for longer than expected. So, it’s important to be fully prepared beforehand. Not only do you need to prep the area that the concrete will be poured into, but you need to make sure surrounding areas are protected, so there’s less clean-up to do.

In addition, you’ll need to make sure you’ve sorted out access. Clear the driveway before ordering concrete and let your neighbours know about the delivery, so they don’t block the road.

Some delivery trucks come with wheelbarrows and chutes to help you transport the concrete to where you’re installing your floor, foundations or base. But it’s worth checking, so you know what equipment you need to supply. If access is limited or you need to transport the concrete more than a few metres, it may be worth hiring a pump at the same time. This usually arrives on a trailer or comes as a separate truck, so you may need to clear space for two vehicles.

Rain can affect the laying and setting of concrete. So, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast ahead of your delivery day. If it’s likely to be very wet, you may want to change your delivery date to save the need for protective covers.

Get kitted out

Concrete is a strong alkali and can cause burns and allergic reactions if it comes into contact with your skin or eyes. So, it’s important to make sure you and anyone helping you are suitably dressed when your concrete arrives.

Even if it’s a hot day, your legs and arms should be covered in case of splashes. And you should be wearing some protective work boots. You should also be wearing impervious gloves and eye protection to keep you safe.