Small Batch Concrete Delivery in Jefferson County, Missouri

 Ready Mix Concrete Delivery vs Mix-on-Site Concrete

When it comes to getting a small amount of concrete to where it is needed, contractors and homeowners have two primary options: ready mix concrete delivery or on-site concrete mixing.

Each approach has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on the specific requirements of the project. To better understand the advantages of small batch or short load concrete delivery, let’s delve into a few things to consider when deciding between ready mix concrete delivery and mix-on-site concrete.

Understanding Ready-Mix Concrete

Ready mix concrete is a pre-made concrete mixture that is produced in a centralized mixing plant and then transported to the construction site. This type of concrete is manufactured under controlled conditions, ensuring consistent quality and composition. The ready mix concrete is then delivered to the job site in large, barrel mixer trucks, ready to be poured.

Advantages of Ready Mix Concrete

• Consistent Quality: Ready mix concrete is produced in a controlled environment, allowing for precise control over the mix design, ingredient proportions, and curing process. This results in a more consistent and predictable final product.
• Reduced Labor Costs: With ready mix concrete, the mixing and transportation tasks are handled by the supplier, reducing the need for on-site labor and equipment.
• Efficient Delivery: Ready mix concrete trucks can deliver large volumes of material quickly, allowing for faster project completion times.
• Specialized Admixtures: Ready mix suppliers can incorporate specialized admixtures, such as plasticizers or retarders, to enhance the concrete’s performance and workability.

Disadvantages of Ready Mix Concrete

• Higher Cost: Ready mix concrete typically has a higher per-unit cost compared to on-site mixing, due to the added expenses of transportation and the supplier’s overhead.
• Minimum Order Quantities: Many ready mix suppliers have minimum order quantities, which can be a challenge for smaller projects.

Understanding Mix-on-Site Concrete

Mix-on-site concrete, also known as volumetric or on-site mixing, involves the preparation of concrete directly at the construction site using a specialized concrete mixer. This approach allows for greater control over the concrete mix design and the ability to tailor the material to the specific project requirements.

Advantages of Mix-on-Site Concrete

1. Cost Savings: By mixing the concrete on-site, you can potentially save on the transportation and delivery costs associated with ready mix concrete.
2. Customized Mixes: On-site mixing allows for greater flexibility in the concrete mix design, enabling you to adjust the proportions of cement, aggregates, and water to meet the project’s needs.
3. Reduced Waste: With on-site mixing, you can produce only the exact amount of concrete required, minimizing waste and leftover material.

Disadvantages of Mix-on-Site Concrete

1. Quality Control Challenges: Maintaining consistent quality and proper proportions of the concrete mix can be more challenging when mixing on-site, especially for larger projects.
2. Labor-Intensive Process: Mixing concrete on-site requires additional labor and equipment, such as a concrete mixer and the necessary materials handling.
3. Slower Pace: The on-site mixing process can be more time-consuming, potentially leading to longer project timelines compared to ready mix concrete delivery.
4. Limited Admixture Options: The range of specialized admixtures available for on-site mixing may be more limited than what is offered by ready mix suppliers.

Ready Mix Concrete Delivery vs Mix Your Own from Bags

Deciding between ready mix concrete delivery and mixing your own concrete from bags can be a challenging choice, especially for smaller concrete projects. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice will depend on factors such as project size, budget, and the resources available.

Advantages of Ready Mix Concrete Delivery

• Consistent Quality: Ready mix concrete from a professional supplier is engineered to meet specific strength and durability standards, ensuring a high-quality final product.
• Time-Saving: With ready mix delivery, the concrete is mixed and delivered to the job site, eliminating the need for on-site mixing and saving you valuable time.
• Reduced Labor: Ready mix concrete delivery eliminates the need for manual mixing, which can be physically demanding, especially for larger projects.
• Expertise and Guidance: Concrete suppliers often have experienced professionals who can provide advice on the appropriate mix design, placement, and finishing techniques for your project.

Potential Drawbacks of Ready Mix Concrete Delivery

• Minimum Order Requirements: Many ready mix suppliers have minimum order quantities, which can be a concern for smaller projects.  Arnold Ready Mix offers small batch concrete delivery starting at a minimum of 2 yards. 
• Delivery Fees: In addition to the cost of the concrete itself, you need to factor in delivery fees, which can add to the overall project expense.

Advantages of Mixing Your Own Concrete

• Cost Savings: Purchasing pre-mixed concrete in bags can be more cost-effective than ready mix delivery, especially for smaller projects.
• Availability: Concrete mix in bags is widely available at most home improvement stores and construction supply retailers, making it a convenient option for DIY projects.

Potential Drawbacks of Mixing Your Own Concrete

• Increased Labor: Mixing concrete by hand or with a rental mixer can be a physically demanding and time-consuming task, particularly for larger projects.
• Inconsistent Quality: The quality of the final concrete can vary depending on the mixing process, the consistency of the bag mixes, and the expertise of the person doing the mixing.
• Potential for Cold Joints: When pouring concrete in multiple batches, there is a risk of creating cold joints, which can compromise the structural integrity of the slab.
• Lack of Expertise: Without experience in concrete placement and finishing, you may face challenges in achieving a smooth, level, and visually appealing final surface.