Concrete for Slabs & Flooring

At Wright Readymix, we batch and deliver ready-mix concrete specifically tailored to the requirements of your flooring. We’ll manufacture a concrete mix to your exact specification – whether you need a standardised, designated, designed, or proprietary mix, we’ve got you covered.

To streamline the concrete delivery process, we also have a fleet of concrete boom and line pumps available for hire. These efficient machines allow us to pour your concrete quickly and without hassle, saving you time, money, and effort.

For a quote on ready-mix concrete for your flooring project, don’t hesitate to contact our team today on 0117 958 2090.

Concrete for Internal Floor Slabs

When it comes to internal floor slabs, durability, strength, and a smooth finish are key. Our ready-mix concrete is carefully formulated to provide the ideal mix of strength and workability, allowing for supremely easy pouring and levelling.

With our concrete, you can achieve solid, long-lasting internal floor slabs that can withstand heavy foot traffic and the demands of everyday use. We understand that each project has unique requirements, and our team of experts will work closely with you to determine the optimal concrete mix design for your specific application.

Whilst domestic internal floors are usually Gen 3, it's essential to consider the unique requirements of your project and select the most suitable mix for your internal floor slabs’ environment.

Wright Minimix boom pump delivering concrete indoors

Wright Minimix boom pump pumping concrete floor inside

Concrete for External Floor Slabs

External floor slabs are subjected to various factors that internal slabs often aren’t, including temperature fluctuations, moisture, and heavy traffic. Our ready-mix concrete for external floor slabs is designed to offer exceptional strength, durability, and resistance to harsh weather conditions.

Whether it's for a driveway, car park, or outdoor walkway, our concrete will provide a solid foundation that can withstand the elements and heavy loads. With a range of mix designs available, we can tailor the concrete to meet your specific requirements and ensure optimal performance in outdoor environments.

Whilst 40N and above concrete mixes are most commonly used for external floor slabs, you should consider the intended use of your concrete floor and how durable it needs to be when choosing the mix for your project.

Wright Minimix boom pump delivering concrete

external concrete floor installation

Concrete Floor Slab FAQs

Can concrete floor slabs be reinforced?

Yes, concrete floor slabs can be reinforced with steel reinforcement, such as rebar or steel mesh. Reinforcement helps enhance the slab's strength, minimise cracking, and distribute loads more effectively. The need for reinforcement depends on the specific project requirements and anticipated loads.

How thick should a concrete floor slab be?

The thickness of a concrete floor slab depends on several factors, including the load it will bear, the soil conditions, and the intended use of the space. Generally, residential floor slabs are around 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) thick, while commercial or industrial slabs may require greater thickness.

How long does it take for a concrete floor slab to cure?

The curing time for a concrete floor slab can vary depending on factors like the concrete mix design, ambient conditions, and slab thickness. As a general guideline, it typically takes about 28 days for concrete to reach its maximum strength. However, it's essential to follow proper curing practices during this period to ensure optimal strength development.

Can you tell me which concrete mix I need for my floor slab?

While our team is highly knowledgeable and experienced in concrete applications, it’s ultimately your responsibility to select the most suitable concrete mix for your floor slab.

We can certainly provide guidance and recommendations based on our expertise, but the final decision should consider factors specific to your project, such as load requirements, environmental conditions, and any applicable regulations or standards.

We are the right people for you – let’s work together!

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How to Build Concrete Retaining Walls with Simple DIY Steps

26th November 2025

A good retaining wall keeps your garden steady and stops soil from creeping out of place after heavy rain. When you build concrete retaining walls, you get a stronger, longer-lasting structure that can handle pressure and weather with less hassle. GOV.UK [1] says you usually don’t need planning permission for garden walls under one metre high, or under two metres if they're not near a highway. That's why many homeowners build them to level a slope or tidy up a tricky corner.

Most problems start with shallow footings or poor drainage. Walls lean, crack, or shift because the ground and water around them were not adequately managed at the start. This guide keeps things simple. You will learn how to plan the wall, prepare a solid base, manage drainage, and pour ready mix concrete in clear, DIY-friendly steps.

Plan Your Retaining Wall Once & Build It with Confidence

Start with location. Pick a line where water can drain away, not one that sits behind the wall. Avoid building too close to sheds, fences or boundaries and check local guidance if you are unsure about height or placement.

Then decide how high the wall needs to be and what it is holding back. A short wall for a raised bed is a very different job from one keeping a whole bank in place. As height increases, the pressure behind the wall rises as well. So, keep DIY projects small, and call a pro for anything large or load-bearing. The Building Regulations [2] state that retaining walls over 1.2 metres high often need structural calculations. This is to ensure they can withstand lateral earth pressure safely.

Finally, look at the soil. Clay moves as it gets wet and dries. Sandy or loose soils can wash out if not well compacted. Knowing what you are standing on helps you choose footing depth and drainage that will keep the wall stable.

Get Your Concrete, Kit & Tools Ready Before You Dig

Ready mix concrete is the easiest way to get a strong, consistent wall. Proportions are controlled at the plant, so you can focus on the build rather than guessing ratios. If you want to see how different mixes are used for structural work, this guide is useful.

You will also need:

Steel bars or mesh to reinforce the wall
Type 1 or MOT base material for the footing
Clean gravel and a perforated drainpipe for water runoff
Landscape fabric to stop soil from working its way through

Keep tools simple and practical. A spade, tamper, level, wheelbarrow, formwork boards and basic PPE will handle most small walls. If you are new to this kind of project, our DIY concrete page has straightforward advice for first-timers.

Simple DIY Steps to Build a Concrete Retaining Wall

Step 1: Excavate a Level Base Trench that Will Not Move

Mark out the line of the wall and dig a trench wide enough for the footing and formwork. The trench should be deep enough to sit below the topsoil and give the wall a firm seat. Compact the bottom of the trench and add a layer of Type 1 base, keeping it level from end to end.

Check your levels as you go. Take your time here, and the rest of the build will be easier.

Step 2: Add Drainage & Gravel so Water Has Somewhere to Go

Lay landscape fabric along the back of the trench and place a perforated drain pipe at the lowest point. Cover it with clean gravel so water has a clear route away from the wall. This reduces the pressure that can build up behind concrete. Proper drainage is essential because saturated soil increases pressure on retaining structures. This follows principles outlined in the GOV.UK guidance on managing surface water [3].

Think of the pipe and gravel as the safety valve for your wall.

Step 3: Set Your Formwork & Steel to Shape a Strong Wall

Fix timber formwork along the trench to define the wall's shape and height. Brace it so it will not move once the concrete goes in. Place steel bars or mesh inside the form, raised slightly on small spacers so it sits within the wall, not on the soil.

Check that the steel runs where the greatest pressure will be, near the back of the wall.

Step 4: Pour Ready Mix Concrete for A Clean, Solid Wall

Book your concrete delivery for a time when the forms and reinforcement are ready. Pour the ready mix in stages and use a shovel or rod to work it into corners and around the steel.

Tap the formwork to bring air bubbles to the surface and level the top with a straight edge so the wall has a clean finish.

Step 5: Let the Wall Cure, Then Backfill & Finish the Ground

Let the concrete cure according to the guidance for your chosen mix. Keep it shaded from intense sun and protected from heavy rain in the early stages. When it is firm, remove the formwork and check for any apparent defects. Backfill with gravel behind the wall and compact soil above in layers so the ground supports rather than strains the concrete.

Give the wall time to gain strength before loading it with heavy features or deep beds.

Keep Your Wall Steady, Keep Your Garden Sorted

A well-built concrete retaining wall holds back soil, levels uneven ground, and stays firm through winter weather. Plan the line, footing and height carefully, and your retaining wall becomes a stable framework for terraces, lawns and beds that will work with your garden for seasons. Using ready mix concrete also means you can pour the wall in one organised run, rather than stopping to mix by hand, and a simple volume calculator helps you size the order so you avoid both waste and shortfalls.

Wright Readymix delivers ready mix concrete across the South West, with mixes suited to small DIY jobs and larger landscaping projects. Our team can guide you on the right strength, help you estimate volumes using our concrete volume calculator, and arrange delivery that works around your schedule.

Call 0117 958 2090, or get in touch to talk through your retaining wall project and book the concrete you need.

External Sources

[1] https://www.gov.uk/planning-permission-england-wales

[2] https://www.gov.uk/building-regulations-approval

[3] https://www.gov.uk/guidance/flood-risk-and-coastal-change

Concrete vs Steel: Which Material Is Better to Build With?

23rd October 2025

Every construction project begins with one key question: which material delivers the best results? Across the South West and South Wales, that choice often comes down to concrete vs steel. Both have played a key role in the UK’s built environment for decades. Each offers unique strengths that influence cost, performance, and sustainability.

Concrete provides high compressive strength and strong thermal efficiency, creating stable, energy-efficient buildings. Steel provides strong tensile strength and precise design. This makes it perfect for long-span and high-rise structures. The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) states that much of today’s infrastructure relies on reinforced concrete. This combination of both materials balances flexibility and durability. However, concrete’s affordability, local sourcing, and long lifespan make it the most practical option for most UK builds.

We offer ready-mix concrete that meets British Standards (BS 8500-2) and deliver it quickly throughout the region.

How Do Concrete & Steel Compare in Construction?

ICE identifies strength and behaviour under load as the main difference between concrete and steel. Concrete excels when compressed, so it’s perfect for footings, walls, and load-bearing slabs. Steel excels in tension, resisting bending or stretching. This is an excellent advantage for high-rise buildings and long-span structures such as bridges.

When used together in reinforced concrete, the materials complement one another. The steel absorbs tensile forces, while the concrete distributes compressive loads. This creates a strong and balanced structure that works well for many commercial and home projects in the UK.

Concrete provides substantial thermal performance benefits. It helps keep indoor temperatures stable and lowers heating demand. The Building Research Establishment (BRE) explains that concrete’s thermal mass can help lessen peak energy loads. It does this by absorbing heat and slowly releasing it. This process boosts comfort and efficiency in buildings. Steel can achieve similar results but often requires added insulation to match concrete’s performance.

To enhance supply and speed up delivery, we operate various regional plants. These plants are set up for fast batching and local delivery, and you can learn more via our concrete plants page.

What Costs More to Build With Concrete or Steel?

For most UK projects, concrete continues to offer greater cost stability than steel. Data from the House of Commons shows that steel prices are more volatile. Its price is influenced by energy costs and global supply chains, hence the need for the government’s steel strategy. Concrete, on the other hand, is primarily produced and sourced locally. This helps maintain predictable pricing and availability.

Steel structures help shorten construction time through prefabrication. However, the increased costs of fabrication and transport can eat into those savings. Concrete is affordable, available, and easy to place. This makes it the top choice for home and business projects in the South West.

Key advantages of concrete for cost control:

Concrete is sourced locally, reducing transport costs and environmental impact.
Each mix is precision-batched to minimise waste and improve efficiency.
LGW's regional plants support reliable delivery schedules.

As part of The LGW Group, we offer consistent pricing and dependable supply across the South West. Our team also provides concrete pumping services. These help streamline on-site delivery and reduce labour costs by enabling faster, cleaner pours.

Why Concrete Leads in Sustainability & Longevity

The key difference in sustainability between concrete and steel lies in how they perform throughout their lifecycles. Steel is fully recyclable, but its production is energy-intensive, requiring temperatures of over 1,500°C. Concrete can use recycled aggregates and low-carbon cement substitutes. This helps reduce embodied carbon while still maintaining strong performance.

The UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) says the construction sector needs to cut whole-life emissions. This can be achieved by improving material efficiency and reducing transport miles. We help achieve this goal by using local batching and delivery. This reduces haulage distances and lowers fuel use across the South West.

Sustainable advantages of concrete include:

Using locally sourced materials reduces transport emissions.
High thermal efficiency reduces operational energy use.
Long service life with minimal maintenance.

Concrete’s durability also supports sustainability by extending the lifespan of structures. The Building Research Establishment (BRE) says reinforced concrete can last over 100 years. That is, if it is mixed and properly looked after. In coastal or humid areas, steel parts usually need protective coatings or galvanising to avoid corrosion. Maintenance concrete often skips this step.

This long-term resilience plays a key role in the UK’s Net Zero Strategy. It focuses on using low-maintenance, low-emission building materials for sustainable construction.

Top 3 Reasons Concrete Is Still the Core of Modern Construction

Steel is key to structural engineering, yet concrete remains the foundation of most construction in the UK. Its performance, versatility, and local availability make it a reliable choice for all types of projects. This includes everything from small home extensions to large commercial developments.

1. Versatility for Every Project

Concrete can be poured, shaped, and finished to meet almost any specification. It supports decorative architectural work, large-scale structural elements, and even polished interiors. We supply liquid screed for smooth and efficient flooring. It meets current performance standards.

2. Long-Term Durability

Concrete resists fire, weather, and corrosion, maintaining its structural integrity for decades. High-density concrete is a preferred material for safety and longevity in UK building standards. For domestic use, we provide tailored mixes for driveways and shed bases to ensure reliable strength and finish.

3. Cost Stability & Efficiency

Concrete remains a stable option for costs. This is thanks to its local sourcing and efficient production methods. We provide accurate batching and flexible delivery from various regional plants. This helps contractors reduce waste and stay on track. Materials like bulk bag aggregates and gravels enhance on-site efficiency and aid in resource planning.

Concrete is versatile, resilient, and affordable. These qualities make it a top choice for builders, developers, and homeowners in the South West. This approach supports lasting value and sustainable growth in the region.

Your Project Deserves Concrete Confidence

In the concrete vs steel debate, both materials remain vital to construction. However, concrete offers the best balance of strength, cost stability, and sustainability. Its flexibility and local sourcing make it a reliable choice for both small foundations and large commercial builds.

Choosing Wright Readymix means working with a trusted regional supplier backed by The LGW Group. Every batch meets British Standards (BS 8500-2) and is delivered with precision to projects across the South West. Explore our testimonials and news pages for feedback and expert guides like the complete guide to concrete footings.

Call 0117 958 2090, or contact our concrete specialists today to ensure your mix meets specification, schedule, and budget.

How to Calculate Concrete Pump Capacity for Your Project

20th October 2025

Calculating the right concrete pump capacity is essential for staying on budget and on schedule. After all, choosing the right pump size is key for any project, big or small. It helps deliver materials efficiently, avoids delays, and reduces waste. Inaccurate pump capacity calculations can result in running out of concrete or over-ordering. Both situations are expensive and time-consuming.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to calculate the concrete pump capacity for your project. However, we also have our trusty concrete volume calculator, should you ever need it.

With the right approach, you can avoid complications, save on material costs, and ensure your concrete is delivered on time, every time.

Understanding Concrete Pump Capacity

Concrete pump capacity refers to the volume of concrete a pump can deliver per hour, typically measured in cubic meters per hour (m³/hr). The required capacity for your project depends on several factors, including:

Project size
Delivery distance
And height

For example, a small driveway pour uses much less pump capacity than a large commercial foundation. Grasping these factors helps you select the right pump. This way, you can avoid delays and inefficiencies. To give some context, England generated 63.0 million tonnes of non-hazardous construction and demolition waste in 2022. Inadequate project planning contributes significantly to material overruns and disposal costs.

To get the right concrete pump, understanding these variables and knowing how to calculate the required pump size is crucial.

How to Calculate Concrete Pump Capacity for Your Project

To determine the pump capacity you need, follow these steps:

Start by calculating the total concrete volume for your project. Use the formula:

Volume = Length × Width × Depth

For example, if you’re working on a driveway that is 6m long, 3m wide, and 0.15m deep, the calculation would be: Volume = 6m × 3m × 0.15m = 2.7m³. Concrete is sold in cubic meters (m³), so in this case, you will need 2.7m³ of concrete.

Estimate how long the pour will take. For a typical residential project, such as a driveway, it may take 2 hours. To calculate the required pump capacity, divide the total volume by the pour time:

Required Pump Capacity = Total Volume ÷ Duration

e.g. 2.7m³ ÷ 2 hours = 1.35 m³/hr pump capacity

Best practice suggests adding an extra 10% to your volume estimate. This helps cover spillage, slab depth differences, and site conditions. For a 2.7m³ pour, this brings your total to approximately 2.97m³, ensuring you don’t run short mid-pour.

Why This Matters

In the UK, ready-mix concrete is typically ordered and supplied by volume in cubic metres. Most suppliers offer quantities from 1m³ upwards in 0.5m³ increments. Calculating your pump capacity in advance ensures you select the right pump for your project’s specific needs. No matter whether it’s the volume of concrete, height of the pour, or distance the concrete needs to be transported.

Choosing the Right Concrete Pump for Your Project

Once you’ve determined the required pump capacity, the next step is selecting the appropriate concrete pump for your project. There are two primary types of concrete pumps: boom pumps and line pumps. Each has its advantages, depending on the project’s size, the site layout, and how far the concrete needs to travel.

Boom Pumps

These pumps work well for larger projects, including high-rise buildings and multi-storey foundations. They use a hydraulic arm called the “boom” to reach farther. This lets them deliver concrete both vertically and across long distances. Boom pumps can quickly supply large volumes of concrete. They work well for complex projects, especially where access is tight or the terrain is challenging. Modern boom pumps can reach heights of over 60 metres, making them vital for high-rise construction. In such circumstances, ground-level delivery isn’t always practical.

Commercial Example: For pouring concrete in multi-storey buildings or bridges, a boom pump is ideal. It offers excellent reach and high output capacity.

Line Pumps

Line pumps use flexible hoses to pump concrete, making them ideal for smaller projects or sites with restricted access. They are more compact and versatile, able to pump concrete into smaller spaces and difficult-to-reach areas. Line pumps are commonly used for driveways, foundations, and slabs.

Residential Example: For a driveway pour, a line pump works well. It moves concrete at about 1m³ per minute. This makes it a cost-effective and efficient choice.

Choosing the right pump depends on factors such as project size, accessibility, and the volume of concrete required. If you’re unsure which type suits your project, our professional team can help guide you towards the best choice based on your specific needs.

Saves Time & Money with Accurate Concrete Pump Capacity

Accurately calculating concrete pump capacity is crucial to keeping your project on track. Choose the right pump by considering factors such as concrete volume, pour time, and site access. This helps you avoid delays, wasted material, and extra costs.

No matter if it’s a small home pour or a big commercial project, getting the calculation right makes things easier and boosts efficiency. Wright Readymix offers a full range of concrete pumps suited for all projects. Our experienced team is here to help you select the ideal pump for your needs. Need help choosing the right concrete pump for your project?

Call 0117 958 2090, or get in touch for expert advice and efficient concrete delivery, every time.

How to Choose the Right Concrete Grades for Your Project

29th September 2025

Choosing the right concrete grade is key for any project, whether it’s driveways or commercial foundations. Concrete grades indicate how much pressure the mix can withstand. This makes them essential for ensuring your structure’s strength and durability. But with so many grades to choose from, how do you know which one is right for your specific project?

Using the wrong grade of concrete can lead to costly repairs, and either a weaker mix will crack, or an overly strong mix will cost more than necessary. This guide details the different concrete grades. It will help you find the best mix for your DIY patio, shed base, extension foundations, or any other project.

By the end, you’ll have the knowledge you need to make the right choice, saving time and money while ensuring your project stands the test of time.

What Are Concrete Grades & Why Do They Matter?

Concrete grades are a measure of the mix’s compressive strength and indicate how much weight the concrete can bear after curing. In the UK, concrete grades are standardised under BS 8500, which complements the European standard BS EN 206.

The grades are typically represented with a “C” followed by a number, such as C20. The number shows the compressive strength from standard cube tests in BS EN 12390-3. It indicates how much pressure the concrete can withstand after 28 days of curing and is measured in Newtons per square millimetre (N/mm²).

So, why does this matter for your project?

Concrete forms the base for many structures, such as driveways, foundations, and industrial floors. The grade you select ensures your structure remains stable and durable, performing as expected over time. Choosing the right grade is crucial. If the concrete isn’t strong enough, it could fail under load; if it’s too strong, you’re unnecessarily inflating your budget.

With our broad experience in South West England and South Wales, we’ll provide you with the right concrete solution every time.

How to Choose the Right Concrete Grade for Your Project

What Is the Purpose of The Concrete?

Start by considering the purpose of the concrete. Is it for a light garden path or a heavy-duty foundation? For decorative projects like patios or walkways, lower grades like C10 or C15 will do the job. For foundations or roads that bear significant loads, you’ll need C25, C30, or C40, which can handle higher pressure.

What’s the Weight the Concrete Needs to Support?

Think about the load the concrete will bear. A garage floor or driveway will need a more potent concrete mix like C25 or C30 to handle vehicle traffic. For light uses such as garden paths or patios, C10 concrete will suffice without overcomplicating the cost.

What Environmental or Ground Conditions Must Be Considered?

Concrete exposed to extreme weather or unstable ground needs more durability. If your project will deal with moisture, snow, or temperature changes, choose C30 or C35 concrete. They provide better freeze-thaw resistance. If you’re pouring on soft or unstable ground, a stronger concrete mix will offer stability and long-lasting results.

Common Concrete Grades & Their Applications

C10 Concrete

C10 concrete is great for non-load-bearing projects. It’s ideal for lightweight tasks like garden pathways, patio slabs, and decorative uses. It’s not suited for areas with heavy traffic or structural demands, but it works well for simple landscaping and DIY jobs.

C20 Concrete

C20 is often used for driveways, garage floors, and small foundations. It provides a strong yet affordable option. This grade is versatile and suitable for residential projects that won’t experience significant loads or wear and tear. It also works well for internal floor slabs.

C25 Concrete

A versatile grade, C25 is often used in foundations, footings, and reinforced bases. It’s well-suited for medium-sized residential and commercial projects. It can withstand moderate loads and is commonly used for driveways, patios, and industrial floors exposed to some weight.

C30 Concrete

The go-to grade for heavy-duty pavements, industrial floors, and foundations exposed to high traffic or large vehicles. It’s often used in road construction, in commercial buildings, and in areas that need strong durability and resistance to freeze-thaw cycles.

C40 Concrete

C40 is the most potent mix. It’s made for busy commercial and industrial use, like structural foundations and heavy-load areas. It’s perfect for projects that need high durability. This includes highways, heavy-duty pavements, and structural beams in industrial areas.

Key Considerations When Selecting Concrete Grades

Project Type & Load-Bearing Requirements

The type of project you’re working on plays a significant role in selecting the right concrete grade. C10 or C15 concrete might be sufficient for light DIY projects like pathways or garden patios. For heavier projects, like garage foundations or industrial floors, grades such as C25, C30, or C40 are crucial. They can handle the extra load and offer the needed durability.

Environmental Exposure

Concrete that faces harsh conditions, such as extreme weather, moisture, or freeze-thaw cycles, needs to be more durable. C30 and C35 grades are perfect for outdoor use, such as driveways, pavements, and roads. They resist freeze-thaw cycles and handle changing temperatures and moisture well.

Curing & Mixing Ratios

The mix ratio (cement, water, and aggregate) directly affects the final strength of the concrete. Higher-grade mixes typically require less water and more cement to ensure a denser, stronger product. For DIY projects and commercial builds, using the correct ratio is key. It helps achieve the concrete grade’s full strength and durability.

Get the Right Concrete Grade, Save Time, & Build Strong

Choosing the right concrete grade is essential for your project’s durability and strength. Whether you’re a DIY homeowner or a contractor, the right mix ensures your structure performs reliably for years. Selecting the correct grade prevents unnecessary repairs and delays while keeping costs in check.

For most residential projects, C20 or C25 concrete offers the right balance of strength and cost. For tough jobs, like roadways or factory floors, C30 or C40 is crucial for lasting strength and performance. At Wright Readymix, we’re here to guide you in selecting the perfect concrete grade, ensuring your project stands the test of time.

Call 0117 958 2090, get expert advice and a tailored quote, or use our concrete volume calculator to estimate your needs.