As a trusted supplier of ready mix concrete across Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, we speak to customers every day who are planning everything from small home improvements to large-scale construction projects. And one of the most common questions we hear is: what is ready mix concrete actually used for?
While concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in the world, many people don’t realise just how versatile it is, or how many different roles it can play in a single project.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what ready mix concrete is, how it’s made, and the most common ways it’s used. Whether you’re laying a driveway or managing a commercial build, you’ll get a clear picture of how it fits into your plans…
What is ready mix concrete?
Ready mix concrete is a pre-prepared mixture of cement, aggregates (such as sand, gravel or crushed stone), and water. Instead of being mixed on your construction site, it’s produced in a controlled batching plant and delivered to your location ready to use.
At Coe-Mix, we have two batching plants – one in Retford and one in Sandtoft, Doncaster, allowing us to serve a broad area with fast, reliable delivery. Here’s what a ready mix concrete batching plant looks like:
Preparing concrete mixes ready to go using a batching plant means you get a consistent, high-quality mix every time, without the need for manual mixing or guesswork. It saves time, reduces waste, and gives reliable results, no matter the size of your project.
How is it made?
We produce ready mix concrete in our batching plants, carefully measuring out each ingredient to create the correct mix for the job.
While we approach every order individually, the process typically involves:
- Measuring cement, aggregates, and water to precise ratios
- Mixing the materials to achieve a consistent blend
- Loading the mix into a specialised mixer truck
- Transporting it to your site while continuously rotating to keep it workable
Because everything is controlled and monitored, the final product is far more consistent than site-mixed concrete. This consistency is one of the key reasons why ready mix concrete is widely used across the construction industry.
How to use premixed concrete
Like we said at the start of this article, ready mix concrete stands out for being incredibly versatile and it can be used in a wide range of applications. Here are five of the most common:
1. Foundations and footingsConcrete is the backbone of any structure. Ready mix concrete is commonly used for house foundations, footings, and structural bases because it provides strength, stability, and long-term durability.
2. Driveways and pathsFor domestic projects, ready mix concrete is a popular choice for driveways, patios, and pathways. It offers a clean, durable finish that can handle regular use and varying weather conditions.
3. Floors and slabsConcrete floors are widely used in homes, garages, and commercial buildings. Ready mix concrete ensures a smooth, level surface that’s built to last.
4. Commercial constructionFrom office buildings to warehouses, ready mix concrete is used in large-scale construction for structural frames, flooring, and external works.
5. Agricultural projectsFarm yards, silage clamps, and storage areas often rely on concrete for strength and easy maintenance. Ready mix concrete provides a reliable solution for these demanding environments.
Not sure if ready mix concrete is right for your project? Get in touch and our friendly team will be happy to make a recommendation or provide alternative types of concrete based on what you’ve got in plan.
What are the benefits of ready mixed concrete?
We’ve covered a few of the biggest advantages of ready mixed concrete already, but here’s why our customers choose it over traditional on-site mixing.
- It keeps everything consistent: Every batch is produced to the same specification, so there are no inconsistent patches or sections
- It saves time: Ready mix concrete is delivered ready to pour exactly when you need it, minimising delays and reducing labour
- Less waste = more cost effective: You only order what you need, so there’s no risk of any concrete going to waste from over mixing – plus, our concrete calculator makes it really easy to work out how much you need
- Better quality control: As it’s produced in a regulated environment, we have full control of the quality of the final material
- Versatility: It’s suitable for a wide range of applications
Top tips for laying ready mix concrete
To get the best results, it’s important to consider elements that can impact setting times, strength and durability like weather conditions and site preparation. Here are some quick tips to get it right, based on common, easily-made mistakes we see all the time.
In hot weather:
- Work quickly to avoid the mix drying too fast
- Keep the surface moist to prevent cracking
- Consider pouring early in the morning or later in the day
In cold weather:
- Avoid pouring in freezing conditions
- Use protective coverings to retain heat
- Allow extra time for the concrete to cure properly
General tips:
- Prepare the ground properly before pouring
- Use the right tools to level and finish the surface
- Avoid overworking the concrete as it begins to set
Ready mix concrete vs ready mix cement: what’s the difference?
This is another question we’re often asked. Cement is just one ingredient in concrete. It essentially acts as the binding agent that holds everything else together. Concrete, on the other hand, is the finished product – a mixture of cement, aggregates and water. So when people refer to “ready mix cement”, they’re usually talking about ready mix concrete. Understanding the difference helps ensure you’re ordering the right material for your project.
Find ready mix concrete supply near you
If you’re planning a project and need a reliable supply of ready mix concrete, we’re here to help. With coverage across Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, we deliver high-quality mixes tailored to your specific project requirements.
Whether you’re working on a small domestic job or a large commercial build, our team can guide you through the process and make sure you get the right mix, delivered at the right time.
Get in touch today to discuss your project and arrange your ready mix concrete delivery, or check out our full list of services to find the right option for your project.
