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Types of Concrete Mix and Their Uses

 

Concrete comes in many different forms, but can broadly be sorted into four categories: standard concrete, designated concrete, designed concrete, and proprietary concrete. There are a number of different grades within these categories.

The ‘best’ concrete to buy depends on the application you plan to use it for. Choosing the correct type is important because it ensures that your new build will be hard-wearing and stand the test of time.

Wright Readymix are one of the UK’s leading concrete specialists. We supply high-quality concrete solutions to the South West of England and South Wales, including ready-mixed concrete, liquid screed, and concrete pumps. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about the different types of concrete, including their various strengths and applications.

Standardised Concrete

 

Standardised Prescribed Concretes (SPCs) are made with a prescribed quantity of materials issued by the British Standards body.

Relatively simple mixes, they are typically used for small scale jobs and mixed on site or obtained from a supplier. They have no strength guarantee or defined quality standards. There are five types:

Also known as wet lean mix concrete, this versatile mix is commonly used for a wide variety of non-structural applications.

Strength: Estimated at 7.5N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Drainage works
  • Backing
  • Haunching
  • Kerb bedding
  • Blinding
  • Cavity filling

A multipurpose mix used for unreinforced building and housing applications. When combined with a liquid screed finish, it is an excellent choice for house foundations and bases.

Strength: Estimated at 10N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Foundations for houses and extensions
  • Non-structural mass concrete
  • Unreinforced strip footings
  • Footings for fence posts
  • Small bases for patios
  • Drainage works
  • Blinding

Although ST3 is unsuitable as a wearing surface, it is frequently used for light domestic applications and bases. It can be used for internal floor slabs and house floors with no permanent finish flooring.

Strength: Estimated at 15N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Foundations for sheds, garages, greenhouses, and walls
  • Paving for patios
  • Trench filling
  • Blinding house floors

ST4 can be used as a wearing surface for light foot traffic. It is used for a range of domestic, industrial, and agricultural applications.

Strength: Estimated at 20N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Drain bedding
  • Benching to chambers
  • Unreinforced garage floors
  • Workshop and shed bases
  • Internal floor slabs

ST5 can be used in domestic, commercial, and agricultural projects, but only for light foot traffic applications.

Strength: Estimated at 25N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Foundations for columns and posts
  • Equipment storage spaces
  • Building ground floor slabs

Designated Concrete

 

Designated concretes are identified by their application, whether agricultural, industrial, or structural. They provide peace of mind that the chosen concrete will perform as needed, letting you skip the long process of specifying a designed concrete.

Providers of designated concrete must hold the appropriate level of product conformity certification, as approved by the BSI Standards Policy and Strategy Committee.

Designated concretes are sorted into General (GEN), Reinforced (RC), Foundation (FND), and Pavement (PAV) categories, each designed for a variety of applications.

General

 

GEN concrete is used for domestic and non-structural applications. It has a relatively low strength and durability level. The requirements specify a minimum quantity of cement to be included, but no water cement ratio.

Unless fully encased or covered,GEN concretes should only ever be used for internal applications.

GEN0 is a wet lean mix concrete often used in both commercial and housing projects.

Strength: Estimated at 7.5N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Domestic foundations
  • Cavity filling
  • Mass filling
  • Kerb bedding
  • Benching
  • Haunching

GEN1 is multifunctional concrete used for general building and housing applications.

Strength: Estimated at 10N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Foundations for conservatories, sheds, walls, and steps
  • Trench filling
  • Cavity filling
  • Mass filling
  • Blinding house floors
  • Kerbing
  • Drainage works
  • Haunching

GEN2 is perfect for domestic floors where no permanent finish will be installed, but carpeting or tiling will be.

Strength: Estimated at 15N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Trench fill foundations
  • Foundations for conservatories, sheds, and walls
  • Unreinforced strip footings
  • Unreinforced mass concrete fill
  • Paving for paths
  • Blinding

GEN3 can be used for light duty domestic foundations and applications. It can be used for domestic garage floors and to build unembedded internal floor slabs that will be covered by tiles, carpet, or laminate flooring.

Strength: Estimated at 20N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Foundations for houses, garages, and walls
  • Bases for driveways and sheds
  • Unreinforced bases and oversites for conservatories and greenhouses
  • Domestic garage floors (with no embedded metal)
  • Under paving for patios
  • Mass concrete fill
  • Trench fill foundations
  • Blinding

Designated Reinforced Concretes

 

Reinforced concretes are composites pre-stressed or embedded with steel. They are strengthened with added components to prevent cracking or corrosion.

Reinforced concretes have specified requirements for minimum cementitious content .and maximum water-concrete ratios. They are ideal for builds that will be exposed to highly demanding conditions.

RC25 concrete mixes can be used in parts of a building that require steel reinforcement.

Strength: Estimated at 25N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Lightly reinforced house or garage floors
  • Foundations, footings, and basement floors
  • Bases for sheds or outbuildings
  • Infill to insulated concrete formwork located above ground

This mix is suitable for mild exposure conditions, like pavements and driveways.

Strength: Estimated at 30N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Driveways, walkways, paths, stables, and patios
  • Internal areas for light foot and trolley traffic
  • Slabbing
  • Some reinforced foundations

RC28/35 is a strengthened concrete ideal for moderate exposure conditions.

Strength: Estimated at 35N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • External slabbing, column bases, walls, and beams
  • Garages and workshops
  • Livestock and crop storage floors
  • Piling
  • Tank fill

RC32/40 is suitable for moderate to high exposure conditions.

Strength: Estimated at 40N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Agricultural tracks and roads
  • Floors and walls for slurry and manure storage
  • Cavity infill to reinforced masonry
  • Farmyards
  • Factory floors

RC35/45 is appropriate for high demanding exposure conditions.

Strength: Estimated at 45N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Toppings for floors in parlours and dairies
  • Floors and walls for silage or grain stores
  • Stable floors

RC40/50 is the hardiest of reinforced concretes, making it suitable for severe exposure conditions.

Strength: Estimated 50N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • External yards
  • Heavy traffic areas
  • Stable floors
  • Toppings for floors in parlours and dairies
  • Floors and walls for silage or grain stores

Designated Paving Concrete

 

PAV1 and PAV2 concretes include freeze-thaw resistance and are intended for heavy-duty parking and drives. They are not suitable for power float finishes.

PAV1 mixes are frequently used for domestic pavement construction. They contain an additive that creates micro-sized air bubbles in the concrete, helping protect the surface from freeze-thaw cycles.

Strength: Estimated at 35N/mm2 on 28 days

Uses:

  • Domestic pavements, parking, and carports (where no de-icing salts are used)
  • Reinforced and unreinforced bases for workshops and houses
  • Reinforced and unreinforced hard standings
  • Paved areas such as walkways and patios
  • External paving
  • House driveways

PAV2 is a heavy-duty concrete suitable for commercial and industrial use. It is resistant to frost and can be used with de-icing salts.

Strength: Estimated at 40N/mm2 after 28 days

Uses:

  • Reinforced bases for commercial buildings and agricultural storage
  • Slabbing and paving with heavy vehicle and machinery traffic
  • External yards and roads subject to occasional de-icing salts
  • Heavy-duty outdoor driveways, pavements, and forecourts
  • Industrial external car parks
  • Mass concrete fills

Designated Foundation Concretes

 

As the name suggests, foundation concrete is used in foundations, specifically in those where the ground soil contains sulphates. Sulphates can cause normal concrete to soften, decay, or crack; foundation concrete is designed to withstand this deterioration.

FND2, FND3, and FND4 can be used in all types of un-reinforced foundations. Each is designed for a different soil type.

Strength: Estimated at 30N/mm2 after 28 days

Designed Concretes

 

As directed by European Standards, designed concretes are mixed to achieve a specific strength required for an application. Unlike standardised and designated concretes, they don’t specify the cement to water mix ratios.

Proprietary Concretes

 

Proprietary concretes are custom mixed by the producer for a specific application. They are used where high-performance or specific qualities are required. The producer will provide you with a performance guarantee.

 

Get a Quote From our Concrete Specialists 

 

Wright Readymix have been supplying premium concrete mixes to the South and Wales for over two decades. We can supply your project with ready-mix concrete of all types, as well as heavy-duty concrete pumps and equipment. No matter the size or scope of your project, you can rely on us for quality materials and a top-notch service.

Get a quote online or by calling us on 0117 958 2090. We’re happy to talk through your requirements and offer our recommendations on the best concrete type for your project.

Concrete Mixes FAQs

 

We suggest concrete mixes depending on application requirements and ground conditions. Contact a member of our expert team to discuss the details of your project and we will be able to suggest the best concrete mix to suit your needs.

This will depend totally on the size of your lay site. Use our useful concrete volume calculator to find out how much concrete mix you’ll require for your project.

If you do not have a credit account with us, then our preferred method of payment is by credit or debit card.

Cure time will depend on a number of factors, such as the type of concrete mix being used and external weather conditions, however, you should have at least between 1-2 hours in which to lay the mix. We will be able to advise you more accurately once we have more details, so don’t hesitate to contact us. 

All of our concrete delivery vehicles come with chutes that can deliver ready mix concrete up to approximately 2.4m away from the rear of the vehicle and 1.2m from the side. If your lay site has restricted access that would make delivery by normal means impossible, then one of our concrete pumps for hire would be able to transport the concrete to your lay site with ease.

The minimum width required for our vehicles is 2.7m or 8ft 10 inches. If you believe that entry to your site would be particularly tricky for one of our delivery vehicles, then we would be happy to arrange for one of our team to inspect your site beforehand. You can also request delivery through our mini pump, which is perfect for accessing lay sites that are too hard to navigate for larger vehicles.

If you wish to move the concrete mix yourself i.e. with a wheelbarrow or dump truck, then you should request your ready mix concrete at a lower slump. This will mean that it is drier and therefore easier to transport manually. Please let us know in advance if you wish for our concrete mixers to offload directly into your wheelbarrow, so that we can schedule appropriately.

Our delivery trucks remain on site for an allotted time of 30 minutes. If you require the delivery truck for longer than this time, then this may incur you a waiting time charge.

Yes – without tamping, vibrating, or compacting, air pockets would remain trapped inside the wet concrete mix. These air pockets could seriously weaken the overall structure of the concrete, making it weaker and less durable than it would be if the concrete was made denser. When reinforcing metal is used, this method also ensures that the concrete best bonds to the metal.

Concrete mixes can be harmful if not handled correctly. That is why we always suggest wearing the appropriate safety gear and following these guidelines when handling our ready mix concrete or liquid screed:

  • Fresh concrete or screed can cause burns to the skin and eyes, so wear protective clothing (impervious boots, goggles, gloves, long sleeves and trousers)
  • If concrete makes contact with your skin or eye, then wash it off thoroughly or rinse from your eye immediately.
  • Do not swallow. If any concrete mix is ingested, seek immediate medical advice.
  • Once finished, remove your clothing and wash it thoroughly before reuse.

     

We have a large fleet of delivery vehicles in a range of sizes and capacities (length + width + height = capacity):
6.5m + 2.5m + 4m = 4m3
7.5m + 2.5m + 4m = 6m3
8.7m + 2.5m + 4m = 7.5m3

We are the right people for you – let’s work together!
Contact us on 0117 958 2090 today to get a quote or to find out more.

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News
What is High-Performance Concrete & When is it Used?
05th January 2026

High-performance concrete is chosen for projects that need reliable strength, durability, and steady performance over time, especially in tough conditions. It is mainly used in commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects where regular concrete might not handle the demands.

In busy infrastructure, industrial, and large commercial projects, early cracks, surface problems, or unexpected repairs can disrupt work and raise costs long after construction ends. These issues often come from choices made during the planning stage, especially if exposure, traffic, or access needs are not fully considered.

When contractors and engineers plan for durability, load, and service life during mix design, they lower risks and make the structure’s long-term performance more predictable.

How High-Performance Concrete Is Defined in Practice

High-performance concrete is defined by the results it needs to achieve on site and in use. Its specification focuses on strength, durability, low permeability, resistance to the environment, and steady performance during placement and over its design life.

In real projects, the definition depends on how the concrete will be used. Factors like load, moisture, harsh environments, access, and expected lifespan all affect the mix design. This helps the concrete work well both during placement and in long-term use.

Focusing on performance also helps with planning, especially when supply can change. The Department for Business and Trade reported that ready-mixed concrete sales dropped by 4.3% in Quarter 2 2025 compared to Quarter 1, and were 4.7% lower than in Quarter 2 2024 [1]. These numbers show why it’s important to specify and order concrete early for commercial and infrastructure projects.

We work with The LGW Group to supply concrete for commercial and infrastructure projects where performance needs are clearly set out from the start.

When High-Performance Concrete Becomes the Right Specification Choice

High-performance concrete is usually chosen earlier in the design process than standard mixes, especially when performance goals are clear. Engineers and contractors use agreed exposure levels, load assumptions, and schedule limits to make sure the concrete meets both structural and construction needs.

Specifying the concrete early lets teams plan the mix, placement, and logistics before work begins. This helps avoid last-minute changes, keeps delivery consistent, and lowers the risk of problems that could cause extra work or delays.

Infrastructure Assets Built for Heavy Load & Long Design Life

High-performance concrete is often used in road and transport projects where heavy loads and long service life are needed. National Highways says about 400 miles, or 4%, of England’s motorways and main A-roads are made of concrete, much of it built in the 1960s and 1970s [2].

Even though traffic is much heavier now, these concrete roads have lasted longer and needed less maintenance than asphalt. Their strong, long-term performance is why performance-based concrete is still used on key transport routes.

Industrial Floors That Must Perform Under Constant Demand

In industrial and commercial settings, concrete floors need to handle heavy loads, vehicle traffic, and constant use. Warehouses, factories, and distribution centres often choose high-performance mixes to keep surfaces strong and avoid work interruptions.

Performance-based floor mixes are often chosen when:

  • Frequent forklift or HGV traffic is expected
  • High racking loads or fixed machinery place sustained pressure on slabs
  • Large pours require consistent behaviour to achieve uniform finishes

In these situations, reliable performance during placement and curing helps prevent early problems and keeps the project on schedule.

Projects Where Access Constraints Leave No Margin for Error

On crowded sites, phased projects, or places with limited access, being able to place concrete predictably is essential. Good control over workability and setting helps avoid delays, cold joints, and finish problems, especially when pours need to be done quickly.

Where access or placement requires additional control, our team supports performance-led pours through our concrete pumping service.

What High-Performance Concrete Delivers Over the Life of a Structure

High-performance concrete helps plan for the full life of a project by making future repairs less likely. While it may take more planning at first, the real value is in fewer repairs, less downtime, and more reliable performance over time.

For developers and owners, this approach matches material choices to the risks of running the asset, especially when access is hard or disruptions could be costly or affect the public.

Durability That Protects Asset Life & Reliability

High-performance concrete is chosen to resist water, freeze-thaw cycles, heavy traffic, and tough conditions. Focusing on durability in the mix helps the structure last longer and lowers the chance of early problems.

This focus matches concerns in the industry. In 2025, the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) said engineers worry about the safety and reliability of UK infrastructure, especially road bridges [3]. They point out that poor durability and reactive repairs shorten asset life and cause more disruptions.

More Predictable Results During Placement & Finishing

Good control over workability and setting leads to reliable results during placement and finishing. This matters most for large pours, structural parts, or tight schedules, where changes can cause problems or delays.

For contractors, this supports greater on-site control, more consistent finishes, and fewer remedial works that can disrupt follow-on trades.

Reduced Intervention & Fewer Unplanned Disruptions

High-performance concrete aligns with modern procurement and performance-based contracts that prioritise defined outcomes over minimum compliance. Design and build arrangements, performance specifications, and long-term operation agreements increasingly require materials to meet clear service expectations.

When mix design is tied directly to performance goals, project teams face less confusion during delivery and handover. This leads to clearer responsibility, easier approvals, and fewer arguments about material performance later on.

Plan High-Performance Concrete into Your Project

When planning to use high-performance concrete, set your requirements early so the mix matches the job. Think about exposure, loads, access limits, and how much room there is for fixes if needed.

Some practical planning steps include:

  • Confirm performance requirements at the specification stage
  • Estimate volumes accurately to support scheduling and delivery
  • Confirm placement method early on constrained or complex sites

Wright Ready Mix offers helpful tools for planning, like a concrete volume calculator to estimate how much you need before ordering. If you have questions about delivery, placement, or other services, check our FAQs or read customer feedback on our testimonials page. For updates and news, visit our news page.

Call 0117 958 2090 or contact us to talk about your project needs.

External Sources

[1] GOV.UK, “The Department for Business and Trade”: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/building-materials-and-components-statistics-july-2025/construction-building-materials-commentary-july-2025

[2] National Highways: https://nationalhighways.co.uk/our-roads/concrete-roads/

[3] Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE): https://www.ice.org.uk/news-views-insights/inside-infrastructure/does-asset-maintenance-need-a-fairy-godmother

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Troubleshooting Concrete Cracking: Common Causes & Fixes
10th December 2025

Better concrete begins with understanding how it behaves. Anyone who has poured a slab recognises the moment a fine line appears across fresh concrete. Understanding concrete cracking causes and fixes gives you the confidence to pour with fewer surprises and fewer repeat repairs. Most cracks happen when concrete dries out too fast, the base shifts, or the slab reacts to quick temperature changes before it’s strong enough.

Good curing is about stopping premature moisture loss while keeping the concrete at a steady temperature. Industry experts suggest starting curing immediately after compaction. This protects fresh concrete from drying out and helps avoid early strength loss. For consistent, ready mix with less guesswork, use our ready mix concrete.

This guide explains why cracks occur, how to spot early warning signs, and the practical steps to protect your next pour.

How to Spot the Most Common Concrete Cracking Causes on Site

Most cracks come down to three things:

  • Moisture loss
  • Ground movement
  • A mix that does not suit the job

When the surface dries faster than the concrete below, the slab shrinks unevenly. That shrinkage creates tension and shows up as fine shrinkage cracks, often within the first day. A warm, breezy day speeds this up, especially on exposed slabs.

If you’ve been outside recently, you would have noticed that the UK is experiencing warmer, drier summers more often. This makes early-age cracking more likely if curing is an afterthought. The Met Office’s analysis confirms that summer 2025 was the warmest on record for the UK, with heat now far more likely than in past decades [1]. For concrete, that increased heat means faster evaporation, greater shrinkage, and a greater risk of hairline cracking if the surface is left unprotected.

Ground conditions play a big part. A slab poured on soft or poorly compacted ground will settle into weak spots over time. That movement often shows up as wider, more defined cracks that run across driveways, patios and garden slabs. Choosing an appropriate mix of strengths helps the slab cope with its base and the loads on top. We explain different mix strengths and where they work best on our types of concrete mix and their uses page.

When you look at a cracked slab, helpful clues include:

  • Fine, shallow lines that form a random pattern across the surface.
  • Straight or diagonal cracks that follow weak spots in the base.
  • Cracks from corners or around openings where stress is concentrated.

These signs help you judge whether the issue is mainly surface shrinkage or ongoing ground movement.

Practical Ways to Prevent Concrete Cracks Before They Start

Most concrete cracking causes and fixes can be addressed by proper planning. Good prevention starts with the base, the mix and a simple curing plan that suits the weather on the day.

A stable, well-compacted sub-base gives the slab a solid seat. Soft spots or poorly compacted areas are the usual reason wider cracks appear later. Joints also help. Saw cuts or formed joints give the slab a controlled line to move along, rather than allowing random cracks through the surface.

Mix selection matters just as much. Each mix has a strength and use case, and using the wrong one can lead to extra shrinkage or premature wear. For DIY projects, match the mix to the job and load at the same time so you can pour with more confidence.

Curing is the next key step. Concrete gains strength when it retains moisture and stays at a steady temperature. The Concrete Society notes that typical curing periods are several days, and BS EN 13670 provides guidance on protecting against rapid drying and extreme temperatures [2]. On hot days, this may mean using sheeting, light spraying or curing compounds to slow evaporation. GOV.UK says heat episodes are getting more intense, longer, and more frequent [3]. This makes it more critical to plan for shade, water, and rest for both workers and concrete.

Follow These 3 Practical On-Site Checks

Before the pour:

  • Compact the base properly and plan the joint layout.
  • Choose a mix strength suited to the load and exposure.

During the pour:

  • Avoid adding excess water for workability.
  • Place and compact evenly to reduce voids and cold joints.

After the pour:

  • Start curing as soon as finishing allows.
  • Protect from direct sun, wind and heavy rain during early strength gain.

These steps will not stop concrete from moving, but they reduce the likelihood that movement will become a visible crack.

How to Fix Concrete Cracks & When to Start Again

Once a crack appears, the first step is to judge its depth, width and movement. Typically, hairline surface cracks are cosmetic. However, wider or uneven cracks can indicate movement in the base or ongoing shrinkage. Understanding what you are looking at helps you choose the right approach and avoid unnecessary work.

  • Fine hairline cracks that stay level often respond well to cleaning and sealing.
  • Wider cracks benefit from being cut, cleaned and refilled with a stronger repair mortar.
  • Cracks that keep growing usually point to issues in the base beneath the slab.
  • Frost-damaged surfaces may need sealing to prevent further freeze-thaw deterioration.
  • Hard-to-reach areas are easier to treat using our concrete pumping service.

If a crack is wide enough to catch a boot, shows vertical movement or runs in several directions, replacement is often the safer option. In those cases, speaking with a structural engineer or an experienced contractor helps you decide whether repair is worth the effort or if a new slab will yield a better long-term result.

Why Wright Ready Mix Helps Reduce Cracking Problems

A durable slab relies on the base, the mix and the curing, and the mix is the easiest part to control. Starting with consistent ready mix concrete removes much of the guesswork that leads to shrinkage, weak spots and joints that are more likely to crack.

Wright Ready Mix is the leading manufacturer and supplier of ready mix concrete, liquid screed and concrete pumps for the South West. Commercial concrete options give dependable strength and controlled water content. Meanwhile, our concrete volume calculator helps you order accurately. For supporting products such as concrete blocks, our network of local concrete plants helps projects stay stable from edge to centre. This reduces common causes of concrete cracking and the need for on-site fixes.

Call 0117 958 2090, or get in touch to plan your next pour, choose the right mix and keep cracking problems to a minimum.

External Sources

[1] Met Office, "summer 2025 was the warmest on record for the UK”: http://metoffice.gov.uk/about-us/news-and-media/media-centre/weather-and-climate-news/2025/summer-2025-is-the-warmest-on-record-for-the-uk

[2] The Concrete Society: https://www.concrete.org.uk/fingertips/curing-concrete/

[3] GOV.UK, “heat episodes are getting more intense, longer, and more frequent.”: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/heat-mortality-monitoring-reports/heat-mortality-monitoring-report-2023

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How to Level Concrete Floors for Flawless Results Every Time
03rd December 2025

Level concrete floors rely on preparation, good timing, and a mix you can trust. When those foundations are in place, the slab settles evenly and performs well under load.

That means fewer problems with:

  • Cracking
  • Floor coverings
  • Structural movement

Building Regulations Approved Document A stresses that proper ground preparation and stable bases are essential for structural integrity and preventing ground movement issues [1]. Uneven floors create issues for anything that sits on them. Tiles shift, equipment becomes unstable, and interior finishes show faults more quickly.

This guide sets out clear, concrete floor installation tips, from ground prep to levelling tools. Keep reading to learn how to DIY level concrete floors so the slab remains flat, smooth, and ready for use.

Prepare The Perfect Base for Level Concrete Floors

A level floor begins with the ground beneath it. The subfloor needs to be firm, compact, and free from anything that could move while the concrete cures. Even a few millimetres of movement can show up as dips once the slab sets. Proper ground preparation is critical for achieving flat concrete floors and avoiding costly remedial work.

  • Ensure the subfloor is well compacted, stable, and clear of loose material.
  • Plan slab thickness, falls, and expansion joints to manage drainage and movement from the start.
  • Set out strong, straight formwork to contain the pour and guide the screed.
  • Check levels with a spirit level or laser line to create reliable reference points.
  • Use our types of concrete mix guide to select a suitable ready mix with the right strength and consistency.

When the subfloor, formwork, levels, and mix choice are all in place, every stage of the pour has a clear guide to follow. This makes ready mix concrete flooring easier to place accurately.

Tools & Techniques That Make Concrete Floors Level

Once the concrete arrives, speed and control matter. Start by placing the mix evenly and using a screed board to remove excess material. This creates a flat base for later finishing. Keeping the board tight against the formwork avoids ridges and dips.

Floating refines the height and smooths the surface. A bull float or hand float pushes aggregate down and brings finer material to the surface. Slow passes give better results than fast, heavy movements. For builders working on polished concrete or interior floors, this stage sets the quality of the final finish.

For larger slabs or high-spec projects, laser levelling concrete helps you maintain consistent heights over long runs, where hand checks are slower and less reliable. They also physically highlight low or high spots before the slab cures, giving you time to correct them. For projects that need a self-levelling finish, liquid screed offers reliable depth control and strong flow characteristics.

Treat this stage as one of your core concrete floor installation tips. Even with an advanced kit on site, consistent passes and frequent checks are what turn a good mix into a level, professional slab.

Concrete Floor Finishing Tips for A Perfect Final Surface

How you pour will decide how level the concrete floor ends up. Working in sections keeps the job under control, especially on larger slabs. To keep the area manageable, screed it, then move on. This prevents one end from curing while you are still levelling the other, reducing the risk of high and low spots.

  • Pour in controlled sections so you can screed and level each area before moving on.
  • Compact the concrete to drive out air pockets and help the mix settle evenly.
  • Use simple concrete floor finishing techniques such as hand trowelling, power floating, or light brushing.
  • Keep your trowel strokes steady and consistent to avoid ridges, lines, and shadow marks.
  • Watch the surface sheen so you start final finishing when the slab has lost its wet shine but still takes a light thumbprint.

Timing is the final piece of the process. Start finishing too early, and you drag water to the surface. Leave it too late, and the slab fights every pass of the trowel. Let the concrete cure properly under controlled drying conditions to reduce the risk of cracking, keeping the floor flat and durable.

Levelling Mistakes That Ruin Concrete Floors

Even good plans can produce uneven concrete floors if a few key mistakes creep in. The first is adding extra water on-site. It makes the mix easier to push around, but it weakens the slab and encourages cracking and surface dusting. No matter if it’s a commercial or DIY project, ordering ready mix from us keeps water content under control, so the concrete arrives at the right consistency.

As we’ve already covered, ignoring the subfloor is another common issue. A soft or uneven base moves under load, leading to dips and cracks as the slab settles. Checking levels and compacting the ground takes time, but cutting corners here often leads to rework. GOV.UK Building Regulations [2] recommend adequate ground preparation and compaction to prevent structural defects in concrete slabs.

Another mistake is ignoring site conditions. Pouring in very hot, cold, or windy weather without adjusting your approach can cause:

  • Rapid drying
  • Plastic shrinkage
  • Cracking or surface crazing

Simple steps, like shading, using windbreaks, or planning pours for cooler times of day, can help you get flat concrete floors more easily.

Build Stronger, Flatter Floors with the Right Partner

For reliable, ready-mix concrete flooring, start with clear planning on site. Choose a supplier who delivers consistent quality, batch after batch. When each stage is handled carefully, the slab cures to a consistent level, carries loads as designed, and provides a base you can trust for the long term.

Wright Readymix are here to help you get there. Our ready mix concrete meets strict British Standards, with consistent, workable, and predictable deliveries. As a result, it takes away much of the guesswork from levelling. Our team can advise on the right mix for your project. No matter whether you are pouring a garage slab, a commercial floor, or a space with specific strength requirements.

Call 0117 958 2090 or contact our concrete specialists today to discuss your project and choose the right mix for level concrete floors.

External Sources

[1] GOV.UK, “Building Regulations Approved Document A”: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/structure-approved-document-a

[2] GOV.UK, “Building Regulations”: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a8192a0e5274a2e8ab54b5f/BR_PDF_AD_C_2013.pdf

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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] GOV.UK: https://www.gov.uk/planning-permission-england-wales

[2] GOV.UK, “Building Regulations”: https://www.gov.uk/building-regulations-approval

[3] GOV.UK, “managing surface water”: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/flood-risk-and-coastal-change

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