What Are the Main Types of Concrete?

Concrete is a fundamental building material that is one of the most commonly used in the country. 

From domestic DIY projects to large-scale commercial jobs, you’d struggle to find a construction project that does not require a concrete mix. 

With so many different types of concrete on the market, it can sometimes be difficult to know what type is best for your project. At GP Concrete, we regularly supply quality-assured concrete to our customers across Kent, including in Sevenoaks, Bromley and Dartford. 

In this article, we’ll explain the main concrete types and outline which may be the best choice for you.  

Ready-mix concrete 

One of the most popular concrete types in the industry is ready-mix concrete. This product is favoured among domestic and commercial customers alike due to its ease of use, and it tends to be manufactured in large batches according to the specific requirements of a project. 

As it’s pre-mixed, once ready-mix concrete is delivered to a client’s site, it is always ready to go and can be immediately poured without any further labour or mixing required. 

At GP Concrete, we will tailor the strength and grade of our ready-mix concrete mixes to the exact specifications of your job, meaning you’ll always have something unique. 

Benefits of ready-mix concrete

The benefits of ready-mix concrete include:

• Consistency – It has a uniform quality that guarantees strength and durability.

• Saves time – Ready-mix concrete is delivered ready to use, reducing waiting times.

• Customisable – All our ready-mix concrete products are formulated to the exact needs of our customers so you always get a custom, bespoke product. 

• Reduces labour – As there is no need for on-site preparation or mixing, labour is reduced. 

Volumetric concrete 

Volumetric concrete is one of the most versatile products in the concrete industry. Unlike other types, volumetric concrete is determined by volume rather than weight. This allows for mixes to be more efficient and precise for the specific job it is being used for. 

This means customers always receive the exact quantity they need to minimise waste. 

Benefits of volumetric concrete

Our volumetric concrete offers several advantages including: 

• On-site mixing – Volumetric concrete is mixed on-site which means it is always fresh and of the highest quality. 

• No waste – Only the exact amount is produced so waste is minimised. 

• Cost-effective – As volumetric concrete is measured by volume, you’ll only ever pay for the exact quantity you need.

• Adjustable mix – Volumetric concrete can be easily changed and adapted to suit your project’s needs.

Mixed on-site concrete

Another popular concrete service we offer is mixed on-site concrete.

Similar to volumetric concrete, this involves our specialist team heading to your site where they will mix a bespoke product there and then. 

This allows you greater control and autonomy over the concrete which can be tailored specifically to the strength and grade you require.

Benefits of mixed on-site concrete 

Benefits of mixed on-site concrete include:

• Fresh concrete – Concrete that is mixed on-site ensures optimal freshness and workability. 
• No delivery delays – As concrete is directly mixed at your site, you won’t have to wait for delivery. 
• Precise quantities – Only the exact amount will be mixed, so you never need to worry about waste.
• Flexibility – The properties of the concrete can be changed and adapted directly depending on the needs of the project.

At GP Concrete, no matter what kind of concrete you need, we’re here to help. You can use our concrete calculator to find out the exact quantity you’ll require, and we also offer concrete pumping and plant hire for a comprehensive service. With same and next-day delivery available, contact our team today to find out more.