Ready Mix vs Volumetric Concrete: Which Is Better?

Whether you’re launching a large construction project or dabbling in DIY, you need the right concrete mixing service for you. Two of the most common are ready mix concrete and volumetric concrete. Both are suitable for different needs, but which is the best for your project? 

In this article, we explain the key differences between ready mix concrete and volumetric concrete to help you make the most appropriate choice. 

What is the difference between ready mix and volumetric concrete? 

The main difference between ready mix concrete and volumetric concrete is where and when it’s mixed. 

Ready mix concrete is mixed at the company’s mixing facility and delivered to your site. However, volumetric concrete is mixed on site using a mobile mixing truck. 

Both options have pros and cons that make them useful for different sorts of projects and occasions. Let’s take a closer look. 

What are the pros and cons of ready mix concrete? 

Pros

• Convenient: Once the concrete is delivered, you can get the job started right away without having to wait for the on-site mixing to be completed. 

• Affordable: An operator does not need to be on site to mix the concrete and make adjustments, reducing labour costs and making ready mix concrete the more affordable choice for your project. 

• Consistent: Because ready mix concrete is batch-made, the entire mix will be of a consistent quality for your project. All the ingredients are precisely measured at the mixing plant to ensure a top-quality product, including inclusion of requested admixtures too. 

Cons 

• Less flexibility: Ready mix concrete has been mixed off site, meaning that no on-site adjustments can be made. For many projects, this won’t be too much of an issue, providing you have discussed your project needs with a supplier beforehand to get the right mix. However, if you need on-site control and flexibility over the final product, then ready mix might not be for you. 

• Constrained by time: Because the concrete has been mixed off site, it needs to be used promptly upon arrival at the site as it will have already begun curing. 

What are the pros and cons of volumetric concrete? 

Pros

• Customisable and flexible: When concrete is mixed on location, you have greater control over real-time customisation. You can also tweak the mix there and then to achieve the optimum consistency and strength your project needs, while also adapting easily to any unforeseen circumstances, making it a more flexible choice. 

• Fresher: Concrete begins to cure once it has been mixed. Since volumetric concrete is mixed on site, it’s fresher than ready mix concrete which arrives from further away. 

• Less waste: Because the concrete is mixed on site, you have greater control over the quantity produced while you react to your project’s needs in real time. All of this serves to reduce overall waste. 

Cons

• Expense: More labour is required for volumetric concrete, as it’s not simply straightforward delivery. Instead, an operator will need to be on site to mix the concrete, which adds to the overall cost of this method. 

• Less time efficient: If you have a tight schedule, volumetric may not be suitable, as you will need to wait for it to be mixed at your site before being used. 

Take a look at the above pros and cons to decide which delivery method is right for your project. If you need any more advice, you can chat to our experts. 

Are you looking for affordable and high-quality concrete mixes in Sussex? Here at Sussex Ready Mix Concrete, we are a leading local supplier of ready mix and volumetric concrete on a schedule that suits your project. You’ll also only pay for what you use, so get in touch to book a delivery today.