When embarking on decorative concrete endeavors, the acquisition of equipment, specialized tools, and various raw materials often takes precedence. However, it’s remarkably easy to overlook the fundamental component: the concrete itself. Yet, the procurement of concrete should never be an afterthought. This material forms the very foundation for your artistic vision, rendering its inherent quality and suitability for the specific application absolutely paramount. Failing to elevate this particular purchase to a primary concern dramatically increases the potential for project failure and the risk of compromising the entire undertaking.
Your initial crucial step involves identifying a trustworthy ready-mix provider capable of supplying the necessary material precisely when you require it, and at a competitive cost. Nevertheless, this is merely the commencement of the process. The actual placement of the concrete order is where complexities often arise, as concrete is by no means an off-the-shelf commodity that can simply be picked from a catalog.
Locate nearby concrete contractors.
Through years of experience, most concrete professionals have honed the ordering process into a precise science. They’ve cultivated relationships with dependable ready-mix suppliers who consistently provide the correct formulation, in the precise quantity, at the opportune moment. In fact, this particular phase of a project is frequently taken for granted. However, without meticulous ordering, a project can encounter significant difficulties from its outset.
Gain insights into the comprehensive concrete ordering procedure here, encompassing guidance on how to select a ready-mix supplier, the optimal timing and methods for placing your order, and what to expect upon the concrete’s arrival at the jobsite. You will also uncover the critical importance of specifying the appropriate concrete mix and the constituent materials that contribute to a superior concrete blend. Furthermore, practical advice will be offered for aligning your concrete mix with prevailing jobsite conditions and the specific nature of the decorative work you intend to perform.
SELECTING A READY-MIX PROVIDER
Your overarching objective when choosing a ready-mix supplier is to secure a product that performs as expected, is available when needed, and comes at a reasonable cost. Here’s a strategic approach to achieving that.
Firstly, consult local business directories under “concrete – ready mix.” Make a note of the contact numbers for three or four ready-mix enterprises. If plant locations are listed, record them; otherwise, call the companies directly to ascertain their addresses.
Secondly, refine your list to the two or three suppliers situated closest to your residence or project location. The American Concrete Institute advises that concrete must be discharged from the truck within 1.5 hours of being batched, or after 300 drum revolutions (whichever occurs first). Consequently, the greater the distance of the plant from your job site, the higher the probability of encountering issues. Additionally, extended delivery distances typically incur higher material transportation fees. Finally, the further the concrete travels, the increased likelihood of late arrival at the job. Thus, choosing a nearby supplier significantly aids in fulfilling all three of your primary goals when selecting a Ready Mix supplier: a product that performs, arrives punctually, and is offered at a fair price.
Thirdly, solicit recommendations from two to three acquaintances, such as neighbors, or from your local hardware store. Prioritize referrals from individuals who have recently completed projects of a similar scope to yours. This approach helps you gauge the ready-mix company’s service quality for clients like yourself, rather than simply how they cater to the largest contractors in the region.
If you are unable to secure personal referrals, simply contact the ready-mix suppliers directly and request references for two or three projects of a comparable size to yours that they supplied within the last week. Reach out to those references and inquire:
Did the concrete arrive on schedule?
Was the mix provided correct?
How would you rate their service?
Have any issues arisen with the concrete since delivery?
Would you recommend this Ready Mix Company?
Fourthly, once you are confident you have identified one or two suitable ready-mix firms, contact those companies to obtain a price quotation for the specific concrete you require. Also, inquire about the necessary lead time they require for an order and if you will be able to receive the concrete at your desired time of day.
Arranging a Site Visit from Your Ready-Mix Provider
Reputable ready-mix suppliers are generally amenable to having a representative visit your property to assess your project several days before the scheduled concrete pour. It is prudent to plan for and schedule this consultation well in advance – do not expect the representative to be available for a same-day visit.
During this discussion with the representative, ensure you cover the following:
Present your calculated concrete quantity and seek their professional opinion.
Discuss any necessary admixtures for the mix.
Clarify the accessibility of the site for ready-mix trucks.
If your project necessitates more than one truckload, discuss the desired spacing of deliveries.
Confirm your intended outcome for the project and solicit their advice on the optimal mix to achieve that result. The information provided concerning admixtures is designed to empower you with the right questions, not to transform you into an expert who no longer requires assistance from industry professionals.
As straightforward as this guidance may appear, most dispatchers often report that customers calling to place concrete orders frequently lack certainty regarding the precise volume of concrete needed, are unsure about the necessity of additives, have never considered if the concrete might require pumping, and often demand the concrete for the very next day!
Leverage a Local Supplier to Minimize Transportation Expenses
As one might anticipate, you will typically incur higher transportation costs the further the ready-mix plant is situated from your construction site. However, cost efficiency is not the sole rationale for opting for a local supplier whenever feasible. The greater the distance a truck must travel, the higher the probability of its delayed arrival at the job site.
If your project is located in a remote area or you prefer to utilize a supplier from across town, endeavor to avoid scheduling deliveries during peak traffic hours. Furthermore, consider suggesting alternative routes in anticipation of potential road construction or traffic congestion.