At Mix-N-Lay, we know that concrete isn’t just about mixing stone, sand and cement; it’s about laying the foundation for success, whether you’re building a driveway, a patio, a shed base or something even bigger. Based in the U.K., we’re proud to provide top-quality ready-mix concrete and concrete pumping services to domestic and commercial clients alike.
Preparing a site properly before your concrete arrives is crucial to achieving a flawless finish, and that’s exactly what this guide is all about. In this post, we’ll walk you through the concrete pouring process, explain how to get your site in tip-top shape, and share why working with professionals (like us!) can make all the difference. Get in touch with us today for more information!
What is Ready-Mix Concrete Pouring?
Concrete pouring may sound straightforward, but a lot is going on beneath the surface. At the heart of it all is ready-mix concrete—a high-quality, custom-blended material delivered straight to your site, mixed to exact specifications.
Key Features of Ready-Mix Concrete Pouring
Pre-mixed to your specification
Ready-mix concrete is created off-site using precise ratios of cement, aggregates, and water, ensuring consistency, strength, and performance. This careful batching guarantees that every delivery meets exact standards, eliminating the risk of uneven mixtures that could weaken your project. By having the mix prepared beforehand, you also save valuable time on-site since there’s no need for manual measuring or mixing.
Delivered in specialised truck
The concrete is transported to your location in mixing trucks, which keep it agitated to prevent premature setting. These trucks are designed to maintain the perfect consistency throughout the journey, no matter how far the site is from the batching plant. Skilled drivers ensure timely and efficient delivery, helping to keep your project running on schedule without unnecessary delays.
Poured directly where needed
Using chutes, wheelbarrows or concrete pumps, the concrete is placed precisely where it’s required—no mess, no waste. This targeted placement reduces the amount of manual handling needed and speeds up the pouring process, especially on larger or more complex jobs. Additionally, it improves site safety by limiting the movement of heavy loads, which helps prevent accidents.
Faster turnaround times
Compared to mixing on-site, ready-mix concrete speeds up construction schedules by eliminating delays caused by batch mixing errors. With the concrete arriving ready to pour, your team can focus immediately on placement and finishing without waiting or re-mixing. This efficiency is invaluable on projects where time is tight, such as commercial developments or weather-sensitive works.
Customisable blends
You can order different types of mixes for different applications—high-strength, rapid-setting, or even fibre-reinforced options. This flexibility ensures that the concrete’s performance matches the specific demands of your project, providing durability where it’s most needed. Whether you’re laying a driveway, a structural foundation, or a floor slab, there’s a mix tailored to meet your needs.
Reduced labour costs
Because the concrete arrives ready to go, you’ll need fewer hands on-site to get the job done. This reduction in manual labour not only saves money but also minimises the chance of errors during mixing that could compromise the pour. Moreover, it means a safer working environment with less strenuous physical effort required from your team.
Environmentally conscious
Using a batching plant helps minimise waste, and the accurate proportions reduce overuse of materials. By mixing concrete in a controlled environment, water usage is optimised and emissions are kept lower compared to on-site mixing. This approach supports more sustainable building practices and reduces the environmental impact of your project.
Whether you’re working on a domestic project like a garden path or a large-scale commercial job, ready-mix concrete offers efficiency, reliability and superior results. It’s one of the many reasons our clients across the U.K. trust Mix-N-Lay to deliver the goods—literally and figuratively. Contact us!
How to Prepare Your Site for a Concrete Pour
Preparation is everything. A perfectly mixed batch of concrete can still be let down by a poorly prepared site. Whether you’re a DIYer or a contractor, taking the time to get the groundwork right can save money, time and future repairs.
1. Conduct a Site Survey
Before anything else, assess the area where the concrete will be poured:
• Check for existing drainage issues
• Remove any debris or vegetation
• Identify utilities and underground hazards
2. Mark Out the Area Clearly
Use stakes, string lines or marking spray to outline the exact shape and size of the pour area. Accurate marking prevents overpouring and ensures consistent depth.
3. Excavation
Depending on your project, you’ll likely need to excavate the area:
• For driveways or patios, excavate at least 100–150mm deep.
• Ensure the base is flat and compacted.
• Remove all soft soil and replace it with a sub-base if needed.
4. Install a Sub-Base
A well-prepared sub-base is essential:
• Use MOT Type 1 crushed stone or hardcore
• Spread and compact in layers
• This helps to prevent cracking and settling over time
5. Formwork (Shuttering)
You’ll need to create a mould for the concrete:
• Use timber boards or metal forms secured in place
• Ensure the formwork is level, straight and firmly braced
• The height of the form should match your desired concrete thickness
6. Install Reinforcement (if required)
Depending on your project’s load requirements:
• Lay steel mesh or rebar within the formwork
• Ensure it’s raised off the ground using spacers
• This strengthens the slab and prevents cracking
7. Add a Damp-Proof Membrane
Especially for domestic flooring or indoor slabs:
• Use a plastic sheet or specialist membrane
• Lay it flat over the sub-base
• This stops moisture from rising through the slab
8. Ensure Access for Trucks or Pumps
If you’re using ready-mix concrete or a pump:
• Make sure there’s clear access for delivery trucks
• If access is limited, a concrete pump can help reach the pour zone
9. Prepare for Weather Conditions
Rain or heat can affect your pour:
• In hot weather, pre-wet the sub-base and work quickly
• In cold or wet conditions, have tarps and curing blankets ready
10. Get Your Team and Tools Ready
Have everything and everyone on standby:
• Rakes, tampers, screeds and floats
• Labour ready to place and finish the concrete
• A clear plan for pouring, levelling, and finishing
Proper site preparation doesn’t just help the pour go smoothly—it’s the foundation for long-lasting, crack-free concrete. If you’re unsure about anything, the best course of action is always to speak with professionals. That’s where Mix-N-Lay comes in. Contact us today for more information!
The Benefits of Using Professional Concrete Pouring Services
While DIY concrete projects can be rewarding, there are some distinct advantages to hiring professional help. The results speak for themselves.
Precision and Consistency
Professionals ensure that mix ratios are accurate, placement is even, and finishes are smooth and durable. This meticulous attention to detail guarantees that your concrete will meet the required strength and quality standards, preventing weak spots and uneven surfaces. Consistency in mixing and pouring means your structure will be more reliable and long-lasting.
Time-Saving
You won’t waste hours mixing by hand or correcting errors. Professional teams work efficiently, often completing concrete pours in just a few hours. Their experience and coordination speed up the entire process, helping you stick to your project timeline and avoid costly delays. This time-saving aspect is especially valuable for larger or more complex jobs.
Better Equipment
From line pumps to boom pumps, professionals have access to specialised equipment designed to handle tight spaces, large volumes, and tricky pours. These machines enable precise placement of concrete even in challenging locations, improving both the quality of the pour and the speed of completion. Using the right tools also reduces the physical strain on workers and minimises the risk of errors.
Problem-Solving on the Spot
Experienced crews are adept at handling unexpected challenges such as uneven terrain or sudden weather changes. Their ability to adapt and find practical solutions ensures the project keeps moving forward smoothly without compromising quality. This flexibility can save you time, money, and frustration by avoiding delays and rework.
Regulatory Compliance
Professionals understand the British Standards for Concrete Work and ensure your job meets all relevant building regulations and structural codes. This expertise protects you from legal issues and guarantees that your construction is safe and up to code. Compliance is essential for passing inspections and securing any necessary approvals.
Reduced Risk of Cracks and Defects
A poorly done concrete job can fail within months due to premature cracking, spalling, or discolouration. Professionals know how to avoid these common problems by using the correct mix designs, proper curing methods, and suitable reinforcement techniques. Their expertise helps extend the lifespan of your concrete and maintains its appearance.
Clean and Safe Working
Hiring professionals means less mess and fewer mistakes on-site, resulting in a safer and more organised working environment. Trained crews follow best practices to keep the site tidy and reduce the risk of accidents. This focus on safety not only protects workers but also ensures a smoother project from start to finish.
When you work with a company like Mix-N-Lay, you’re not just getting concrete—you’re getting the peace of mind that comes with years of industry experience and customer care.
How Can Mix-N-Lay Help?
Whether you’re planning a home renovation or managing a construction site, Mix-N-Lay has the services and expertise to keep your project moving forward with confidence.
Our Concrete Supply Service
We provide high-quality ready-mix concrete that’s:
• Custom-mixed to your exact needs
• Delivered on time, every time
• Suitable for domestic, commercial and industrial applications
• Available in multiple strengths and curing times
Need fast-setting concrete for a garage base? Or fibre-reinforced mix for heavy loads? We’ve got it.
Our Concrete Pumping Service
Access issues? Steep inclines? Long distances from the road? Our pumping service ensures your concrete is delivered exactly where it’s needed, quickly and efficiently.
We offer:
• Boom pumps for high or large areas
• Line pumps for narrow or tricky access
• Full support from our experienced operators
A Strong Foundation: Your Project Starts Here
Preparation is power when it comes to concrete pouring. From knowing your mix to fine-tuning the site layout, every step matters, and getting it right means a smoother build, fewer problems down the line, and a result you can be proud of. Careful planning reduces costly mistakes and ensures that your concrete sets perfectly, providing the reliable base your project needs.
If you’re unsure where to start, don’t go it alone. Let Mix-N-Lay guide you through the process with our concrete supply and pumping expertise. Our team is ready to offer tailored advice and support every step of the way, making sure your project begins on the strongest footing possible. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!
FAQs
1. How deep should I dig before pouring concrete?
Generally, 100–150mm is sufficient for patios or driveways, but this can vary based on use.
2. What equipment will I need on pour day?
Basic tools include rakes, tampers, screeds and floats. If using a pump, you’ll also need access for the boom or line.
3. Can concrete be poured in winter?
Yes, but you must take precautions like using warm water in the mix and covering the slab post-pour.
4. How long does concrete take to cure?
It starts to set within a few hours but takes 28 days to fully cure and reach its final strength.
5. Do I need a sub-base under concrete?
Yes, especially for driveways or heavy-load areas. A compacted MOT Type 1 layer is ideal.
6. How do I stop concrete from cracking?
Use proper reinforcement, control joints, and don’t let the surface dry too quickly.
7. Can you pour concrete over existing concrete?
Yes, but only if the base is stable and properly prepared to allow bonding.
8. What mix do I need for a shed base?
A standard C25 mix is often ideal for domestic shed bases.
9. What’s the minimum order for ready-mix concrete?
This varies, but Mix-N-Lay offers flexible load sizes for smaller jobs.
10. How do I book a delivery with Mix-N-Lay?
Simply call our friendly team to arrange a quote and schedule.
Ready to Pour? Let’s Talk Concrete
There’s no need to stress over your next concrete pour—Mix-N-Lay has everything you need to plan, prepare, and pour with confidence. Whether you need quality ready-mix concrete, reliable pumping services, or expert advice, our team is ready to help. Contact us today!