Ready-mix concrete is the solution to significant construction projects. It saves hours, reduces labor costs, and provides consistency with quality. When you need ready-mix concrete, it is also a big advantage when it comes to the performance you are carrying home to the work or to the site.
In this guide, learn all about ready-mix concrete, what it is, its benefits, and how best to use it.
What is Readymix Concrete?
One of the major sources of CO2 emission is the construction industry, and RMC is a pre-mixed cement (RMC) with aggregates and water. It’s mixed in a batching plant and sent to your site, ready to be used. It saves time and effort in preparing concrete by eliminating manual mixing, and guarantees the same quality and strength of concrete. The outer binding mixture livened the housing structure by improving bonding and increasing durability through the use of concrete.
Readymix Advantages
The advantages of using readymix concrete are:
Consistency and Quality
All batches are mixed under controlled conditions, so you receive the same high-quality concrete every time.
Time-Saving
No need for on-site mixing. You just pour it and work with the concrete while it is still fresh.
Reduced Labor Costs
Because you don’t have to mix it yourself, it comes ready to use, which requires fewer workers to do the mixing and prepping.
Less Material Waste
There is very little leftover material, which minimizes costs and impacts to the environment.
Stronger and More Durable
Concrete that is properly mixed and cured is more resistant to cracking, weather, and heavy loads. In addition, integral waterproofing barriers make concrete durable and impermeable to moisture penetrating through it.
Best Practices for Using Ready Made Concrete
The best way to use ready-made concrete is to:
Plan Ahead
Get your site ready before the concrete arrives. Prepare formwork and reinforcements.
Order the Right Amount
Avoiding shortage or material surplus, calculate the exact amount that you need. Your supplier can facilitate this.
Schedule Delivery Wisely
Concrete sets once it leaves the plant. Have your crew prepared to place and finish it promptly.
Use the Right Tools
Have vibrators, screeds, and floating tools in place to work efficiently and produce a smooth surface.
Ensure Proper Curing
Curing makes it strong. Water the concrete for a minimum of seven days to avoid cracks and increase sustainability. Structural epoxy for crack repair can assist you in repairing any minor damage you may have experienced over the years.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To avoid any hassle, consider these common mistakes:
Delayed Pouring
Concrete sets fast. If you wait too long, it hardens, becomes hard to work with, and weakens the structure.
Adding Too Much Water
Extra water allows the concrete to pour but reduces its strength. This results in less leakage as 98% of the adhesive is absorbed into the substrate.
Ignoring Weather Conditions
Hot weather accelerates drying; cold weather retards it. Modify your curing process based on that. Polyurethane waterproofing can help prevent weather-related damage.
Poor Finishing Techniques
Too much work on the surface can mean it’s weak. Do not trowel excessively or add water when finishing. Industrial floor coatings offer a mix of additional protection to extend service lives and withstand a lot of foot traffic and heavy machinery.
FAQs
Is ready-mix concrete the same as cement?
No. The cement is a major component of concrete, but ready-mix concrete consists of cement, aggregates, water, and additives.
What happens if not enough cement is in a concrete mix?
A lack of cement makes the mix weak overall. The forbidding component is strong and enduring, but it is brittle and susceptible to cracks and failure.
What is the best grade of ready-mix concrete?
It depends on your project. M20 is ideal for residential structures, while M30 and higher are more suitable for heavy-duty structures.
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