When you place a concrete order, it’s easy to assume that the most important step is when the concrete arrives at your site, ready to be poured.

However, in reality, the concrete will have already gone through numerous critical stages by this point.

Before the concrete is loaded into the truck, every batch we mix goes through a meticulous, carefully controlled production process. This ensures that the material is as predictable as possible, and that it meets all the exact specifications and project requirements.

At our concrete batching plant in Essex, every ingredient is measured and mixed exactly, and each element is thoroughly checked to ensure the highest standards of quality. This all occurs before it’s dispatched to the site.

At iMix Concrete, we are one of the regions leading concrete suppliers, supporting domestic, commercial and industrial projects throughout London, Kent and Essex.

In this article, our expert team have outlined all the steps involved in this process.

1. Feeding the aggregates

Concrete aggregates are most commonly sand, gravel and crushed stone.

First, the chosen aggregates are fed into the batching plant’s aggregate hoppers, using loading shovels.

Conveyor belts then take all the aggregates to a weighing system, so that the exact quantities of aggregates can be measured (depending on the requirements, as per the concrete mixture’s design). This is key to ensuring the concrete achieves the required strength, durability and performance properties.

2. Adding the cement

Then, once the aggregates have been weighed, the cement can be added to the mixture.

Before this point, cement is stored in sealed silos (so that it is protected from moisture).

When ready for use, the cement is carefully transferred, using enclosed screw conveyors, and added to the weighing hopper. It is then added to the mixer, and automated weighing systems are used to ensure the cement is weighed using absolute precision.

3. Adding the water and admixtures

The volume of water that is added can have a major impact on the consequent properties and performance of the final concrete. So, the required volume of water is also measured meticulously, before it is added to the batch.

If needed, any chemical admixtures are also introduced to the batch at this point. These admixtures can be used to enhance the properties of the concrete, e.g. by improving workability or durability.

4. Transferring the materials to the mixer

Next, all of the weighed ingredients are transferred into the mixer.

This occurs in a controlled sequence. In fact, in modern batching plants, this process is highly automated. Computer-controlled systems are used to manage the order at which each ingredient is added, and the timing that is followed. This is designed to completely minimise the risk of any errors or performance unpredictability.

5. Mixing the concrete

Once added to the mixer, all the ingredients – aggregates, cement, water and admixtures – are mixed thoroughly.

The required mixing time varies based on the specific concrete specification and type. Usually, it is around the 1 minute mark.

Inside the mixer, all ingredients are blended together to create a consistent, high‑quality and completely uniform concrete mix with the correct slump and texture.

6. Quality checks

Once mixed, the concrete undergoes thorough quality checks. These confirm that the concrete has successfully achieved the required specifications.

Typically, these can include (but aren’t limited to) a visual inspection to check on the consistency, and a slump test to check the workability.

If the experts are happy with the outcomes of these tests, they will confirm that the concrete has passed their checks.

7. Loading the concrete into the truck

Finally, the concrete mixture is discharged into a ready-mix concrete truck.

These trucks feature a rotating drum, which keeps the concrete continuously agitated throughout its transport. This keeps the concrete workable, and prevents the materials from separating.

Once it’s completed its journey, the concrete is delivered so that it is ready to pour immediately.

Whether you are ordering a batch of concrete for a one-off domestic project, or a major commercial development, the iMix Concrete team are on hand to help.

We are fully accredited ready mix concrete suppliers, renowned for our dependable, efficient, precise and friendly services. To find out more about our offerings, or to receive a quote for your project, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

At iMix Concrete, we provide both ready mix concrete and volumetric concrete, delivering directly to sites throughout London, Kent, Essex and the surrounding areas.

Whatever the nature of your project, our team are on hand to advise and help you identify the solution that ticks all your boxes.

If you are looking for a trusted, fully qualified supplier to support your upcoming project, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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If your project requires concrete, then you’ll need to enlist the support of a specialist, accredited and fully qualified concrete delivery specialist.

At iMix Concrete, we are the chosen supplier of countless projects throughout London, Essex, Kent and the surrounding areas. This includes supporting everything from one-off domestic projects, to vast commercial and industrial sites.

When you work with a specialist supplier, you’ll be advised on the best delivery method and type for your specific context. This includes the most appropriate concrete delivery trucks to suit your delivery requirements.

There are two main types of concrete delivery vehicles – ready mix concrete trucks and volumetric concrete trucks.

To help you understand their specific use cases, our experts have shared a quick and handy guide to each of these vehicle types and their advantages.

Ready Mix Concrete Trucks

Ready mix concrete trucks are the vehicles that most people traditionally associate with concrete delivery.

↑ A Ready Mix Concrete Truck loading up at our Batching Plant 

They feature rotating drum vehicles, which carry the concrete.

These trucks are designed to carry concrete that has already been mixed at a batching plant (and transport it from the plant to the site).

During transport, the drum continuously rotates. This keeps the concrete at the correct consistency, while also preventing it from setting too early.

Then, once the truck reaches the site, the concrete can be poured directly into the required area.

Ready mix trucks are widely used across a vast range of project types, including both domestic and commercial construction projects.

Common projects include:

• Property extensions
• Large building developments
• Foundations and footings
• Driveways, patios and other outdoor spaces
• Commercial flooring

Advantages of Ready Mix Concrete Trucks

Flexibility – These trucks can be used to transport almost any concrete type and grade, and can accommodate large volumes of concrete. They can also be used to deliver screed mixes.

High consistency and predictability – Ready mix concrete trucks are ideal for ensuring the highest quality control standards. This is because, as the concrete is mixed at a dedicated batching plant, the mix design is precisely prepared and monitored before transport. This is particularly valuable for projects that require large pours or repeat deliveries, as it achieves excellent consistency even when multiple batches and deliveries are needed.

Ideal for large pours – For projects that require large volumes of the same concrete mix, ready mix trucks typically provide the most practical and cost-effective solution. In fact, specialist suppliers like iMix Concrete offer continuous delivery scheduling options.

Faster use on-site – With ready mixed concrete, the concrete is delivered fully prepared and ready to use immediately. This is a great way to increase efficiency in projects where timing is key.

Minimal equipment required on-site – As the concrete is already mixed before arrival on site, additional mixing or processing equipment isn’t needed for the site.

Volumetric Concrete Trucks

Volumetric concrete trucks are different from ready mix vehicles in that they carry the separate raw materials required for the concrete (rather than transporting pre-mixed concrete).

↑ A Volumetric Concrete preparing to load aggregates at our Batching Plant

These trucks transport the required raw materials in appropriate containers.

The materials transported typically include:

• Cement
• Sand
• Aggregates
• Water

Then, the concrete can be mixed on-site. Most volumetric concrete trucks are also equipped with their own mixing system, to make this process quicker and easier.

Advantages of Volumetric Concrete Trucks

Material flexibility – Opting for this method of concrete delivery means that site managers have more flexibility surrounding the preparation of the concrete. For example, they can make adjustments to the mixture on-site, if needed.

Volume flexibility – In addition to flexibility regarding the mixture’s preparation, volumetric concrete trucks also give you more flexibility concerning the volume of concrete that is prepared. This makes it a great fit for smaller projects or phased pours, where the volume of concrete required may fluctuate.

Only pay for what you use – One of the biggest advantages of volumetric concrete is that it reduces waste or unnecessary product. As the concrete is mixed on demand, the exact required amount can be produced on-site, and you only have to pay for the exact amount that you need.

Cater to multiple mixtures – If your project requires multiple concrete strengths or applications, then volumetric trucks can often adapt the concrete mixture to accommodate all of these needs.

Freshly mixed concrete – As the concrete is mixed immediately before pouring, there is much less concern about travel or delays affecting the quality of the mixture.

Which concrete truck is best for your project?

The best fit will completely depend on the nature of your project, the amount of concrete that you require, and how likely these requirements are to fluctuate.

Generally speaking, ready mix concrete trucks are the preferred choice for:

• Large projects
• High concrete volumes
• Projects that need consistent mix specifications
• Time-sensitive projects

In comparison, volumetric concrete trucks are often chosen for:

• Smaller or domestic projects
• Projects with changing requirements

 

At iMix Concrete, we provide both ready mix concrete and volumetric concrete, delivering directly to sites throughout London, Essex, Kent and the surrounding areas.

Whatever the nature of your project, our team are on hand to advise and help you identify the solution that ticks all your boxes.

If you are looking for a trusted, fully qualified supplier to support your upcoming project, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Order Now →

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• 2-hour Delivery Windows
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If you are ordering concrete for an upcoming project, you need to keep your order as accurate as possible. Otherwise, you run the risk of incurring unnecessary extra costs.

If you work with a trusted accredited concrete specialist, like iMix Concrete, the team will work with you to understand the nature of your project, and help advise you of these factors before you place your order.

In this article, we outline the most common mistakes that we see our customers making when ordering concrete (so you can ensure you are only paying for exactly what you need!).

Volume

One of the most common (and expensive) mistakes that we see during ordering, is miscalculating the amount of concrete for a project.

At iMix Concrete, we always ensure you get the right amount of concrete for your project, and only pay for what you use. If you don’t use the full amount, not to worry.

However, more critically, underestimating the amount you need, means that you might run out whilst the concrete is being poured.

Resulting in:

• Project delays
• Additional orders
• A risk of issues with bonding concrete poured at different points

How to avoid this issue:

• Carefully measure the length, width, and depth of your pour area
• Be sure to account for uneven ground, spillage or waste, and formwork variations
• Use an online concrete calculator (like the iMix Calculator)
• Check your measurements with your supplier

Grades & Strengths

Different concrete grades are all designed with very specific use cases in mind.

Selecting the wrong concrete grade can either cost you more in your initial order, or you may risk facing far more significant costs in future repairs.

The most common concrete grades include:

• C20: Light-duty applications, e.g. garden paths or shed bases
• C25: Foundations
• C30: Heavy-duty applications or areas that have to withstand vehicle traffic, e.g. driveways

If you choose a higher grade of concrete than necessary, this could increase material costs.

But, if you choose a lower grade than you need, this can be much more expensive. If you have a concrete that is not suited for your project, it can lead to cracking, structural failure and costly remediation work.

To mitigate this risk, always discuss your project requirements with your supplier. Our team can advise, and ensure you have the correct grade and strength, every time.

Site Preparation & Planning

With any concrete delivery, you need to assess the access points and delivery methods for the concrete itself.

You need to check there is enough space on-site for the concrete truck, and for the concrete to be poured.

Poor site preparation issues can include:

• Not enough access for the concrete truck
• The ground being too soft or unstable
• The concrete pour area being blocked
• Bad weather has effected the pouring area
• Limited space for pouring
• No direct access

Poor planning can lead to delays, additional costs, delivery delays or having to move your schedule ahead.

At iMix Concrete, our team can discuss your exact requirements, and provide a reliable delivery method with our mixer, volumetric, or pumping trucks – whilst also taking into consideration any potential pouring complications on-site.

Weather

The weather is one of the main external factors influencing how concrete performs, and how easy it is to pour.

Common weather-related mistakes include:

• Pouring during heavy rain (which weakens the concrete)
• Ignoring freezing temperatures (which impacts curing)
• Not considering hot weather (which accelerates setting)

Any of these instances can lead to reduced strength, visual defects, or the need to rework the concrete.

The weather does not need to be perfect, but if your site has been effected by any weather events (heavy rain, excessive heat), please discuss this with us, so we can best arrange your delivery.

What are the ideal weather conditions for pouring concrete?

Your site does not need to be fully dry, but it must be free of standing water. The ideal condition is slightly ‘damp’, with a well-compacted subgrade, that is not muddy.

If your site is completely dry, the area could take in moisture from the concrete, causing cracking and curing issues.

Ignoring Restrictions

Considering logistics for delivery vehicles is particularly important for sites of an unusual shape, or for residential or urban sites.

Common delivery restrictions include:

• Restrictions for delivery times or slots
• Requirements for noise limitations
• Difficulty securing parking permits
• Space limitations for large vehicles

These issues can result in failed deliveries, which can in turn lead to additional charges and project delays.

Before you order your concrete, be sure to consider if you require any permits for parking, and confirm access to your site.

At iMix Concrete, we are one of the UK’s leading suppliers of concrete, supporting projects of all sizes across London, Essex, Kent and the surrounding areas. To place an order with our trusted, accredited team, get in touch for a quote.

If you are looking for a trusted, fully qualified supplier to support your upcoming project, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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If you are planning on installing a garage car lift, you will need to ensure that your garage has a strong and stable concrete foundation.

As these car lifts concentrate a significant amount of weight onto a small number of precise anchor points, you will need to make sure that your concrete flooring is strong enough to safely support this weight, for the long term.

At iMix Concrete, we are one of the UK’s leading concrete specialists, supplying a huge range of concrete types to projects across the country.

In this guide, our expert team have outlined the main types of garage car lifts, and shared their guidance for the general concrete thickness, strength, and preparation method that would be recommended for each.

What are the Main Types of Garage Lifts?

In the UK, most garage car lifts (which are above-ground vehicle lifts) are either: two-post, four-post and scissor lifts.

It is important to note that each of these lifts distributes the weight of the load slightly differently. As a result, the requirements for the concrete will also vary accordingly.

The main differences between these three lift types are as follows:

Two-post lifts

Two-post lifts consist of two vertical columns that have adjustable arms. These then fix to lifting points under the car, and lift it completely off the ground.

As a result, these lifts are widely used for brake work, suspension repairs and tyre changes (where both the tyres and the vehicle need to be suspended completely).

They are held onto a concrete slap using two anchor points, with the posts bolted into the concrete itself.

• Two-post lifts have a standard lift capacity of around 3,600 – 4,500kg (for most domestic models).

Four-post lifts

Four-post lifts consist of four vertical column posts and two base platforms, which are used to support the vehicle (the car is kept on its wheels, rather than being lifted and suspended from its frame). The car is driven onto the platforms, before being raised.

• For domestic models, four-post lifts usually have a lift capacity of around 3,600 – 6,300kg.

Scissor lifts

The name for scissor lifts comes from the fact that they use a scissor mechanism. This sits beneath the vehicle platform, and folds, to raise the car upwards. They have a very wide base frame.

The car then drives on top of where the frame panel(s) sits, and the car is then lifted up when the panel is raised.

Depending on the requirements, scissor lifts can either be surface-mounted or set into the floor.

• Domestic scissor lifts usually have a lift capacity of around 2,700 – 4,000kg.

Concrete Requirements for Different Garage Lifts

The requirements for the concrete will have to be based on three main factors:

• Thickness
• Strength
• Reinforcement requirements

Each garage car lift type also has its own specific requirements:

Two-post lifts – The entire load is transferred through the unit’s two anchor points. As a result, two-post lifts place high stress on the concrete floor in these precise areas. As a result, a thick concrete slab is needed.

Four-post lifts – The unit has larger base plates, and the load is distributed across four posts. Thanks to this more even load, the concrete doesn’t need to be as thick.

Scissor lifts – The weight is also spread across a wide base frame, meaning less stress placed on the slab itself. But, if the scissor lift is recessed, then the concrete may need to be deeper, so that it can sit flush against the floor.

Concrete thickness

The typical requirements for minimum concrete slab thickness are:

• Two-post lift: 100 – 150mm
• Four-post lift: 100 – 110mm
• Scissor lift: 90 – 100mm

But generally, most manufacturers would recommend a thickness of 150mm for the concrete, to ensure dependable long-term stability.

Concrete strength

The higher the concrete’s strength, the lower the risk of the concrete cracking or failure around the lift columns.

Most garage car lifts require the concrete used to be rated at a minimum of 20-25 MPa.

But, for higher-capacity lifts, it is recommended to increase this to 25-30 MPa.

Reinforcement and curing

Reinforcement and curing are also key to ensuring the concrete is strong and durable for the long term.

For garage car lifts, most installers recommend:

• That steel reinforcement is added (e.g. rebar or welded wire mesh)
• A minimum 28-day curing time for the concrete

How much concrete is needed?

To create a concrete slab for a garage car lift, you can calculate the total volume of concrete you need by:

• Measuring the area for the base (length, width and depth, in metres)
• Multiplying the length x width x depth
• This then gives you the amount of concrete needed in cubic metres

For example:

If your concrete pad is 4m × 4m x 0.15m (thickness), then you need:

• 4 × 4 × 0.15 = 2.4 m³ of concrete for the slab.

However, please note that this is a general calculation. We’d always recommend that you speak to your concrete supplier to get a more accurate estimate, and ensure that you have sufficient surplus concrete for your project.

At iMix Concrete we are the trusted concrete supplier of customers across the Essex and the surrounding region. Our team have the knowledge and experience required to support everything from small domestic projects, to major industrial builds.

If you are looking for a trusted, fully qualified supplier to support your upcoming project, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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Need Concrete for your Project?

Call for today’s best price:

0808 196 7812

• 800m³+ Daily Concrete Capacity
• Same / Next Day Delivery (by 2pm)
• 2-hour Delivery Windows
• Only Pay For What You Use
• Collections Available
• Out of Hours & Night Delivery

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C30 / ST3 concrete is one of the most commonly used grades of concrete in the UK.

Not only is it strong and durable, but it effectively balances this with flexibility, versatility and a moderate price point.

As a result, it is widely used across numerous project types, both domestic and commercial alike.

Here at iMix Concrete, we can supply projects across the country with a huge range of concrete strengths and grades, with products to suit any project type or size – with our fully qualified team ensuring the perfect match for every specific use case.

In this article, iMix Concrete’s team of concrete specialists have shared a handy guide to C30 / ST3 concrete. Keep reading to find out more about what C30 / ST3 concrete is, what projects it’s most commonly used for, and its key advantages.

Jump to section:

• What is C30 / ST3 Concrete?
• What is it used for?
• What are the benefits?
• Points to consider when using C30 concrete

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What is C30 / ST3 Concrete?

C30 / ST3 is a medium-to-high strength concrete mixture.

The ‘C30’ part of its name refers to the fact that this concrete has a compressive strength of 30 N/mm² after 28 days of curing.

This means that C30 concrete is a stronger and more durable alternative to lower-grade mixtures like C20 or C25. But, it has less compressive strength than C35 concrete, for example.

This makes C30 concrete a great choice for projects where a robust, hard-wearing surface is needed, but a sufficient level of workability is still required. It is also designed for projects where a medium-to-high strength level is sufficient, meaning costs can be saved by choosing this over a stronger concrete type.

C30 concrete is also commonly referred to as ST3 concrete. This is the traditional mix designation from the British Standard (BS 8500), to standardise prescribed concrete types.

What is C30 / ST3 Concrete Used For?

C30 concrete is able to handle moderate loads, and can accommodate regular foot and vehicle traffic. As a result, it is suitable for use in residential projects, and light commercial projects.

With these qualities in mind, C30 / ST3 features across numerous structural and external applications.

It is commonly used to build:

• Driveways
• Hard standings
• Garage and shed bases
• Foundations for houses
• Foundations for extensions and larger walls
• Paths and patios
• Pavements
• Oversites
• General groundwork

 

What are the key benefits of C30 / ST3 Concrete?

Strength and durability

Although not as high as other concrete types, C30 offers a dependable compressive strength. It can withstand much higher loads than other lower-grade mixes, but offers a solid cost-effective solution where higher strength levels would be redundant.

Weather resistance

C30 has a high level of weather resistance, being well-equipped to last for many years outdoors and with long-term exposure to rain and temperature fluctuations.

Long predicted lifespan

When properly installed by a qualified professional, C30 concrete has a decades-long predicted lifespan. It also has minimal maintenance requirements, and a very low likelihood of repairs or replacements. This makes it a great cost-effective solution for the long term.

Versatility

C30 concrete is designed to be compatible with a wide range of project types. It can be used in everything from domestic landscaping to property foundations. As a result, it’s a great way to reduce the number of different concrete types that you need on your project’s site.

Balancing cost and performance

Compared to higher-strength concrete mixtures, C30 concrete still ensures strong performance, but at a more affordable price.

Points to Consider when using C30 / ST3 Concrete

Although known for its versatility, it’s important to note that C30 / ST3 isn’t the right choice for every project type.

If you are thinking about using C30 concrete for your upcoming project, we suggest that you consider the following:

What are your project’s load requirements?

For heavy-duty industrial or high-traffic projects, you may need a higher strength of concrete mixture (such as C35 or C40).

Will there be reinforcement needs?

If the concrete is being used for a slab or foundation that will add steel reinforcements, you may need to speak to an engineer to confirm that this concrete type is suitable.

Have you left enough time for curing?

Although the recommended initial setting period for C30 concrete is 24-48 hours, the full curing period is around 28 days. Concrete only reaches its full strength after the correct curing period. If this time is not allowed, then the concrete’s durability can be compromised. So, ensure that you maintain the right curing conditions during this full period.

Have you spoken to a professional?

By working with a trusted, accredited and professional concrete specialist, you can ensure that your C30 concrete represents the very highest quality and performance standards.

iMix Concrete is one of the UK’s leading ready mix concrete suppliers, trusted by clients across the country to supply a huge variety of concrete grades and concrete strengths, including premium quality C30 concrete.

To find out more about C30 / ST3 concrete and its applications, or to arrange an order for your project, get in touch with our team.

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Now more so than ever before, eco-consciousness is shaping decisions across the construction industry. As the UK works towards its ambitious net zero goals, individuals and businesses alike are prioritising sustainability in the suppliers they choose to work with.

As a result, major changes are being driven throughout the construction industry. This includes materials and processes being re-engineered to minimise their environmental impact.

Nowhere is this more evident than with concrete.

Below, you can find out more about the latest innovations in the design and use of concrete, and how these are helping site managers across the country to dramatically improve their sustainability standards.

Jump to section:

• Why is concrete sustainability so important?
• How low carbon concrete supports net zero targets
• How to make concrete mixes more sustainable
• Recycled and sustainable aggregates

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Why is concrete sustainability so important?

Believe it or not, but concrete is the most widely used construction material in the world.

As a result, any sustainability gains that can be made in concrete’s design and construction will have a dramatic impact on global emissions.

What’s more, traditional concrete has always had a significant environmental footprint. In fact, global cement manufacturing accounts for around 8% of the world’s total CO2 emissions.

Improving the sustainability of concrete can help to address a major contributor to global emissions. This will prove key to achieving national and global climate targets.

Also, in areas like London, hitting a minimum sustainability has become a legal requirement for construction projects.

In London, the London Plan (2021) Policy SI2 outlines that every major development proposal must be accompanied by an energy assessment, outlining how carbon dioxide emissions reduction targets will be met. As a result, at least 35% of regulated CO2 emission reductions (against a Building Regulations Part L (2021) baseline) must be successfully made on-site.

Eco concrete will prove vital to reaching these ambitious targets, without compromising on strength or performance.

How low carbon concrete supports net zero targets for construction projects

Compared to traditional concrete, low carbon concrete is responsible for significantly less CO₂ emissions. In fact, at iMix Concrete, our eco concrete represents an over 50% reduction in CO2 (compared to conventional concrete).

With such significant emissions savings, substituting traditional concrete for eco concrete is an extremely effective way for commercial, residential and infrastructure projects to progress towards their net zero targets.

At the same time, eco concrete has exactly the same high standards of strength, durability and predictability as traditional concrete, with the same long predicted lifespan.

How to make concrete mixes more sustainable

Low carbon concrete is achieved in a number of ways, including:

• Using GGBS (Ground Granulated Blast‑furnace Slag)
• Reducing the amount of cement used
• Using low-carbon binders
• Incorporating recycled materials
• Opting for locally sourced materials, wherever possible (to reduce transport emissions)
• Using energy-efficient production and mixing methods (like our new plant)

At iMix Concrete, our batching plant in Essex is state-of-the-art, and using GGBS and sustainable batching methods, we have successfully achieved a decrease of over 50% CO2 emissions for our concrete mixes.

Thanks to our new plant, we can mix any strength and grade of concrete, with marginally lower CO2 emissions, without minimising the impact, or structure of the concrete itself.

Recycled and sustainable aggregates

In terms of volume, aggregates are the largest component of concrete. As a result, improving sustainability here has a major impact on the concrete’s emissions.

Recycled aggregates are made by using crushed concrete and demolition waste. This way, exactly the same performance standards can be achieved, without requiring virgin materials to be used. Plus, it also helps to divert waste from landfill.

This use case is driving increasingly efficient recycling systems, with many modern quarries having now developed closed-loop processes (their materials can be reused over and over again, through different applications).

At iMix Concrete, we are proud to be at the forefront of sustainable construction innovations.

We are constantly working to optimise the sustainability of our materials, to support our clients in the pursuit of their ambitious sustainability targets.

To find out more about our eco concrete, or to arrange for a delivery for your site, speak to iMix Concrete’s expert team.

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Concrete flooring is rapidly increasing in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. Not only does the use of concrete make this flooring type highly durable and affordable, but using floor screed achieves a sleek, stylish and completely flawless finish.

Floor screed plays a critical role in concrete flooring, particularly for domestic properties and businesses. In fact, this final layer does its job so well that it is often used in replacement of carpets or wooden flooring topping the concrete.

So, to help you understand the benefits of floor screed and how best to use the material, our experts have shared this comprehensive floor screed mix guide.

Jump to section:

• What is floor screed?
• What is the ratio needed for floor screed?
• What are the different types of floor screed?
• What are the applications for floor screed?
• Preparation before laying floor screed
• Curing and drying times
• Common mistakes to avoid

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What is floor screed?

Screed is a mixture of cement and sharp sand, which is set in a thin layer.

For concrete flooring, it is designed to sit on top of a concrete subfloor. Then, it can either be topped with an additional type of decorative flooring (such as wooden panels or carpet) or left as it is.

The unique qualities of floor screed are all a result of its use of finer aggregates. Unlike concrete (which uses larger aggregates to give it high strength) floor screed achieves a much smoother and neater finish when set. It is also much easier to ensure floor screed sets in a completely even layer.

As a result, when combined with a layer of concrete underneath, you get the best of both worlds for your flooring.

What is the ratio needed for floor screed?

As mentioned above, floor screed is usually made by mixing cement, aggregates and water.

The standard screed ratio is usually 5:1 sand/cement.

However, the screed ratio required will depend on the project at hand, and where the flooring will be located.

For example, a domestic property will require floor screed that is much weaker and finer than that of an industrial warehouse, where strength (even though it doesn’t need to be as strong as regular concrete) will still be a high priority.

So, although the screed ratio will vary between projects here is a general guideline for standard floor screed mixes:

• For a standard screed mix – 5:1 sand/cement ratio
• For a stronger screed mix – 4:1 sand/cement ratio
• For a faster-drying screed mix – 3:1 sand/cement ratio

Other factors to take into consideration when determining your screed ratio include the thickness of the screed layer, and the type of screed that you are using.

If you have any questions about screed ratios, then consult a specialist concrete supplier, like the team here at iMix Concrete.

What are the different types of screed and their uses?

There are a variety of screed types available, which are designed for use for different purposes, including:

• Bonded screed – this is set on top of an existing layer of concrete or asphalt surface. It is then bonded to the layer below by using a bonding agent.
• Unbonded screed – this is set on top of a damp-proof membrane. But, it is not bonded to the underlying surface.
• Floating screed – this is set on top of an insulating layer, such as polystyrene foam. It is also not bonded to the underlying surface.
• Insulating screed – this is mixed with insulating materials (such as perlite or vermiculite) to help insulate the flooring.
• Structural screed – this type is designed to be set in a thicker layer, providing a structural base.
• Topping screed – this type is designed to be set in a thinner layer, to level and smooth an existing floor.

At iMix Concrete, we can expertly mix screed of any type, to meet the specific requirements of any project.

We even offer our own range of iFlow Liquid Screed, and are trusted suppliers of Cemfloor Level Plus liquid screed.

What are the applications of floor screed?

Screed is an incredibly versatile high performance material.

Generally speaking, screed is designed to be poured on top of a raw concrete subfloor as an efficient additional step, which achieves a much higher quality finish. Essentially, it bridges the gap between the raw concrete subfloor and the aesthetics of the final end result.

Common applications for floor screed include:

• Levelling uneven flooring surfaces – Liquid screed efficiently smooths out structural concrete slabs, achieving a much neater and flawless finish
• Preparing flooring for other materials – In many cases, the concrete used for the subfloor would be too uneven for other flooring materials to be laid on top (e.g. wood or tiles). But with floor screed, the surface can be prepared for the addition of the final surface material. What’s more, the screed also helps to protect these coverings from any moisture rising through the subfloor.
• Creating a concrete floor – Alternatively, if a concrete floor is being prepared, floor screed ensures the concrete has a neat, pristine finish, while still being suitably durable and resistant to traffic.
• Underfloor heating – As screed is an excellent thermal conductor, it is often set over heating pipes to ensure heat is evenly distributed across the room.

Our specialist team have extensive experience working with screed, and are the trusted screed suppliers of businesses, property owners and construction companies across London and the surrounding regions.

Preparation before laying screed

When laying screed, the quality of the end result depends on how well you prepare the site.

To prepare the subfloor, we recommend taking the following steps:

• Clean the subfloor – Ensuring all dust, grease or debris is removed. This is because, if any contaminants are present, this can prevent the screed from bonding correctly.
• For bonded screed, apply a bonding agent – By using a primer (e.g. SBR or PVA) you can ensure the new screed layer successfully adheres to the existing concrete.
• For unbonded screed, add a damp-proofing membrane – Adding a polythene membrane will ensure that the flooring is dependably damp-proof.
• Add edging foam around the perimeter – These strips allow the screed to expand and contract (as is natural) without risking cracking in the walls.

Curing and drying times

When applying floor screed, patience is imperative. To achieve the best result, you’ll need to ensure you’re following the recommended curing and drying times.

We recommend following the following general times:

• Drying time – Generally, the rule for estimating drying times for traditional screed is allowing one day per 1mm of thickness. So for example, a 10mm floor screed would require you to wait 10 days before adding the final finishes.
• Foot traffic – Usually, floor screed can allow foot traffic after 24-48 hours after it has been poured. However, this will vary depending on the mixture used and the surrounding environment.
• Full strength – In most cases, the screed will reach its full strength 28 days after it has been poured.

If you are unsure about drying times, always ask your suppliers – they will have the information on hand as to how long your specific mixture will take to cure and dry, based on your requirements.

Common mistakes to avoid

When pouring screed, common mistakes to be aware of – and to make sure you avoid! – include:

• Using incorrect water ratios – Although adding extra water will make the mixture easier to spread, too much water can result in massive shrinkage and cracking. However on the flipside, not adding enough water makes the mixture crumbly and weak.
• Not considering weather conditions – Attempting to pour screed in bad weather conditions can compromise the end result. For example, high temperatures when pouring can cause the screed to dry too quickly, resulting in curling or cracking.
• Adding the flooring too quickly – Not waiting for the full required drying time can lead to moisture being trapped in between the screed and the flooring finish. This can lead to debonding, or even mould growth. For this reason, we also recommend testing the moisture of the flooring, before fitting the final flooring.
• Insufficient compacting – Failing to correctly tamp down the screed can mean air pockets are left in the screed as it sets. This results in the floor being significantly weaker.

To find out more, or to arrange screed delivery for your upcoming project, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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Here at iMix Concrete, we don’t just supply a wide range of concrete, we also supply a range of screeds – from Gypsol to Cemfloor.

One of the new products in our screed range is Gypsol Flowing Screed, which can be used to create a level, flawless base with ease.

Our experts have shared a complete guide to Gypsol Flowing Screed. Keep reading to find out more about Gypsol Flowing Screed, its benefits and its full scope of use cases.

What is Gypsol Flowing Screed?

Gypsol Flowing Screed is a variety of high performance liquid floor screed.

It consists of a calcium sulphate binder, which is then combined with specific aggregates and water. This mixture makes it unique to traditional screed, which uses a combination of sand and cement.

Once pumped into the required area, Gypsol Flowing Screed is self-smoothing and self-compacting. It sets as a dense, level base, and it forms a smooth, flawless and even floor finish, without requiring manual levelling or any extensive finishing work. Plus, it’s suitable for use across a wide range of construction project types, including timber frame, modular and steel frame projects, amongst others.

Sand & Cement Screed vs Gypsol

Sand & Cement Screed features cement and sand as its binder types, whereas Gypsol Flowing Screed uses calcium sulphate (anhydrite) and aggregates. This gives it several distinctive properties.

While Sand & Cement Screed needs to be mixed on site, then manually laid and levelled, Gypsol Flowing Screed can be pumped into the required area, then its self-smoothing and self-compacting properties mean that minimal further manual work is required.

What’s more, while Sand & Cement Screed has a minimum thickness of around 75mm, Gypsol can achieve much thinner layers, often achieving 25–50 mm. This makes Gypsol much less labour intensive, with a faster finishing time, drying time and a rapid installation process. It is also much more suited for use in large bays (up to ~1000 m²), whereas Sand & Cement Screed is usually limited to small bays, in order to minimise the risk of cracking.

Plus, Gypsol has a lower risk of shrinkage and cracking, and offers significantly improved thermal conductivity.

What are the benefits of Gypsol Flowing Screed?

• Fast and efficient installation
• Rapid drying times
• Self-levelling
• Self-compacting
• Smooth and even finish
• Pumpable
• Reduced labour and time requirements for installation
• Flexibility with section thickness
• High durability and strength
• High resistance to shrinking and cracking
• Improved thermal performance and energy efficiency
• Great compatibility with underfloor heating
• Reduced environmental impact, as the levels of embodied carbon in the material are much lower (as the binder used is derived from a by-product of industry)

What are the different types of Gypsol Flowing Screed?

Depending on your project requirements, Gypsol Flowing Screed is available in a wide range of product types. This ensures the perfect fit for all use cases.

iMix Concrete supply all types of Gypsol – for projects across London, Kent, Essex and the surrounding regions.

Found the screed you need? Contact our team for a quote!

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Understanding a Layer and Carbon Comparison (Sand & Cement vs Gypsol)

Let’s go into a more detailed comparison of the layer and carbon footprint, between Sand & Cement vs Gypsol.

Thickness – Traditional Sand & Cement screed can only be installed at higher thicknesses (typically 70-75 mm is required at the minimum, to ensure sufficient stability). Gypsol Flowing Screed can be installed at far less thickness, at a minimum of 25 mm for bonded layers, 30 mm for unbonded, and 35-50 mm for floating screeds.

Weight and floor-load – As Gypsol Flowing Screed can be installed in thinner layers, this also reduces the overall weight and structural load. This is a very valuable benefit in projects that are using lightweight or mixed-frame structures, and can help to simplify structural requirements.

Carbon footprint – Gypsol Flowing Screed uses an anhydrite binder. This is derived from industrial by-products, as such, its manufacture requires minimal energy and its level of embodied carbon is significantly lower than cement. Plus, Gypsol Flowing Screed can be installed in much thinner layers, further reducing the environmental impact.

To find out more, or to arrange screed delivery for your upcoming project, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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Need Screed for your Project?

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0808 196 7812

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Concrete is one of the most popular construction materials, used in a huge range of projects, across the world.

It’s renowned for its durability, strength and versatility, and its ability to withstand a wide range of conditions. But, there are some circumstances where concrete can be vulnerable to degradation.

Even the strongest concrete types can be vulnerable to chemical attacks, if exposed to harsh chemical conditions. Key examples include sites where chlorides, sulphates, acids and carbon dioxide are present. If the right type of concrete isn’t used, these chemicals can quickly weaken the cement matrix.

So, if your project is due to take place in an environment where these chemicals are present, you must choose an appropriate Aggressive Chemical Environment for Concrete (ACEC) Class.

Below, our experts have shared a full guide to identifying the correct ACEC Class for your project.

Jump to:

• Where is ACEC testing required?
• Understanding ACEC classes
• Why is correct specification important?

At iMix Concrete, our team can mix all types of concrete, for any application – see our Strengths & Grades page for more information, or use our Concrete Calculator.

Where is ACEC testing required?

It’s important to note that certain sectors and environments are more likely to encounter aggressive chemical conditions.

These include industrial manufacturing, wastewater treatment, marine and coastal structures and agricultural facilities, among others.

As a result, for construction projects in these settings, testing for the presence of chemicals is absolutely critical. It is particularly important that project managers thoroughly test the area for the presence of chlorides, sulphates, acids and carbon dioxide.

These tests must take place in the surrounding soil, groundwater and air. Then once these tests have been completed, the appropriate ACEC Class of concrete can be selected.

Chlorides

Commonly found in marine environments and areas where de-icing salts are used. They commonly cause concrete cracking and spalling, and can also corrode steel reinforcements.

Sulphates

Naturally occurring in some soils and groundwater. They are also particularly present in industrial waste. They commonly cause concrete expansion and disintegration.

Acids

Commonly found in agricultural silage pits, chemical plants and wastewater systems. They can break down the cement matrix, and compromise the concrete’s structural strength.

Carbon Dioxide

Can reach aggressive levels in polluted or industrial areas. This lowers the concrete’s pH, causing steel reinforcements to corrode.

Understanding ACEC Classes

There are three main ACEC Classes. These are designed to be resistant to specific types of chemical exposure.

• Aggressive Chemical (AC) – AC concrete is designed for use in environments where there are high concentrations of aggressive chemicals (e.g. acids). As a result, it’s widely used in chemical plants and wastewater treatment facilities.
• Design Chemical (DC) – DC concrete is suitable for contexts with moderate or occasional chemical exposure. Common examples include sites where de-icing salts are used.
• Design Sulphate (DS) – DS concrete is designed to resist sulphate attacks from soil or groundwater. As a result, it’s widely used in sites with high sulphate levels.

Why is correct specification important?

By testing for these substances, the project managers can determine the correct ACEC Class to use. But why is this important?

Choosing the right class of concrete ensures long-term protection against chemical attack, structural integrity and stability.

If the wrong type of concrete is used, the structure will be at risk of early deterioration, regular and costly maintenance, and safety concerns.

At iMix Concrete, we supply premium quality concrete of all grades and types, including all ACEC Classes. We can fulfil orders of any volume, and we deliver to sites across the country, including London, Kent, Essex and beyond.

Our expert team of fully qualified and accredited concrete specialists can work with you, to advise on the best concrete class and mix design to meet all your specifications.

To find out more, or to arrange for your support for your upcoming project, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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Need Concrete for your Project?

Call for today’s best price:

0808 196 7812

• 800m³+ Daily Concrete Capacity
• Same / Next Day Delivery (by 2pm)
• 2-hour Delivery Windows
• Only Pay For What You Use
• Collections Available
• Out of Hours & Night Delivery

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