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Concrete Pumping

Concrete Pumps for Hire

 

Does your project require a concrete pump? We can help! We have a wide range of concrete pumps for hire, including the largest concrete pump in the UK at 62 metres and the boomless minipump, for concrete delivery to those especially difficult to access lay sites.

Whatever your project requirements, we have a concrete pump that can effectively supply you with ready mix concrete and screed, so don’t hesitate to contact us on 0117 958 2090.

Wright MiniMix - Concrete Pumping Services

Wright MiniMix - Concrete Pumping Services

What is a Concrete Pump?

 

A concrete pump is a machine used for transferring wet ready mix concrete or liquid screed to the lay site. There are two types of concrete pump:
 

Boom Pumps for Hire

Boom concrete pumps use a robotic arm to deliver ready mix concrete and screed accurately and are popularly used on large construction sites due to their ability to pump large volumes of concrete quickly.
 

concrete boom pump installing concrete at home

concrete boom pump installing concrete

Ground Line Pumps for Hire 

Ground line concrete pumps such as our boomless minipump, lack this robotic arm and instead rely on laying pipes from the vehicle to the lay site. Our minipump is developed specifically so that it can deliver liquid concrete over 100m vertically as well as 200m horizontally.

wright minimix minipump

ground line concrete pump with underfloor heating

Unsure which kind of concrete pump you’ll require for your project? We’re happy to help! Contact us on 0117 958 2090 with any enquiries. You can also read our complete guide to concrete pumping.

Our Concrete Pumps

 
  • The Mini Pump
  • Sermac Zenith 4ZR21 – 4 sections / 21m vertical reach, Sermac Extreme 3Z22 – 3 sections / 22m vertical reach
  • Sermac Extreme 4Z26 – 4 sections / 26m vertical reach, Sermac Extreme 5Z32 – 5 sections / 32m vertical reach X2
  • Sermac Extreme 5Z37 – 5 sections / 37m vertical reach, Sermac Scorpio 5R47 – 5 sections / 47m vertical reach
  • Mecbo AUT P6/24.4 – 4 sections / 26m vertical reach
  • CIFA K41L XRZ – 5 sections / 41m vertical reach
  • M60/62 - 6 section / 60-62 metre vertical reach x 2

concrete boom pump installing concrete on multi storey

Concrete Pumps FAQs

 

If you have any questions about a concrete pump or the concrete mixes we supply, contact us. Or you can check out some of the frequently asked questions below. Hopefully they can help you and if not, our concrete specialists will be more than happy to help.

The type of pump that is best for concrete delivery will depend on the specific needs of your construction project.

Boom pumps are better for high-volume or vertical pumping and are typically used for larger construction projects, such as high-rise buildings, bridges, and large slabs. 

Ground line pumps use flexible hoses to pump concrete to hard-to-reach areas, including underground. These pumps are ideal for smaller construction projects, such as residential homes, patios, and paths.

When you hire a concrete pump from Wright Readymix, you also get a fully trained, CPCS qualified concrete pump operator. 

This is a nationally recognised qualification, and all our pump operators are highly experienced and can provide you with information and advice on how and where to place the concrete pump machine.

We deliver concrete pumping services to a number of areas throughout The South, Wales, and Midlands. If you are outside of one of our areas, we can cross hire pumps on our behalf in order to meet your requirements.

Our innovative minipump is a ground line pump, where 40m of piping (unless you require more) is laid along the ground to where the concrete needs to be pumped. When affixed to scaffolding, this pump is also capable of pumping concrete over 100m vertically and 200m horizontally.

Here are the basic steps of how a concrete pump works: 

  1. The concrete pump is set up on the construction site, and the operator connects the hoses to the pump and the placement area. 
  2. The concrete mixer truck or batch plant mixes the concrete, and the mixture is poured into the hopper of the pump. 
  3. The pump's hydraulic system creates pressure, which forces the concrete through the delivery system, which consists of a series of pipes and hoses. 
  4. The operator controls the flow rate of the concrete and directs the placement of the concrete by manipulating the boom arm or hose. 
  5. Once the concrete has been placed, the operator shuts off the pump and hoses, and the pump is cleaned and prepared for the next job. 

You will need to let us know the volume of concrete you need to pour, as well as timescales and layout of the project, plus any access issues. This will allow us to determine the best concrete pump to meet your needs. 

If you are concerned about anything, our team will be more than happy to answer any enquiries, or check out our concrete pump terms and conditions of supply and hire page for more information.

Please note that it is the customers responsibility to provide a suitable area or washout receptacle for our pump hopper (which contains product leftovers) on site. Waste disposal is not a part of the service that we provide. The pipe line will also require cement for grouting before pumping can begin.

For more information, refer to our terms and conditions.

Some things are simply environmental factors outside of your control. There must be suitable ground conditions for our pumping vehicles and wind speeds must be within safe limits.

You can ensure our concrete pumping process is safe and efficient by clearing obstructions over the placing area and around the site. Check out our page on health and safety guidance for more details.

We have a broad range of concrete pumps available, from 20m boom pumps to the largest concrete pump in the UK, with a 62m reach. We have ground line minipumps which come with a 40m standard kit, or, for additional charges, extra line can be organised if needed.

When affixed to scaffolding, this can also pump over 100m vertically and 200m horizontally.

Yes. Thanks to its remote controlled, extendable arm, a boom pump can be used to pump concrete in areas a ground pump can't reach, such as up and over fences and houses.

Yes. A ground line pump has a lengthy pipeline that can easily snake through the front door, through your house, and out into the garden if required.

The average output of a concrete pump is anywhere between 50 - 180 m3 per hour, depending on the size and power of the pump. 

In general, the larger the pump, the faster it works - for example, our 6-section M60 & M62 boom pumps can pump an outstanding 180 m3 per hour, meaning it has the highest output of any pump in the UK!

Yes, but you’ll need to take some precautions ahead of time. Fresh concrete can freeze at -4°C, so take steps to keep it warm if you’ll be working in sub-zero temperatures. You can do this by insulating the pipes and drums of the pump system via foam tubing and using very hot water in the mixing stage.

If the mixture does freeze whilst pumping, switch off all equipment and give it enough time to defrost before cleaning out any remaining mix. Trying to pump with frozen concrete in the boom may permanently damage the machinery.

Helpful Documents

 

Wright Readymix concrete pump brochure 

Health & safety guidance for concrete pumping 

Concrete pump t&c of supply & hire 

Ready mix concrete t&c of supply & sale 

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.


We are proud to offer our concrete pumping services across a number of locations, including: Bristol, Newport, Cheddar, Avonmouth, Bath, Frome, Weston-super-mare, Birmingham, Gloucester, Swindon, Plymouth, Dorset, Poole, Bournemouth, Southampton, Milton Keynes, Oxfordshire, South Wales, Swansea, Northamptonshire, Chippenham, Reading, Cheltenham, Glastonbury, Taunton, Exeter, Plymouth, Cardiff, Penzance, Falmouth, Truro, St Austell, Newquay, Yeovil, Torquay, Exmouth, Bude, Barnstaple, Bideford, Weymouth and Minehead. 

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How to Use Aggregates in Hardscaping Projects
31st October 2024

Like any project, the quality of your hardscaping depends a lot on the materials you choose. The right materials will bring your vision to life with lasting beauty and durability, while the wrong ones can lead to disappointing results.

Aggregates - like sands, gravels, and stones - play a major role in hardscaping. They form the foundation of many outdoor designs and can make a huge difference in both appearance and longevity, so it's important to get the choice right.

At Wright Readymix, we've spent years helping people choose the right aggregates for all kinds of projects, and we know what works best. Read on for our guide to making the most of aggregates in hardscaping, plus some tips for picking the perfect type for your project!

1. Pathways and Walkways

Pathways are one of the first things people notice in a garden, so why not make them a standout feature? For a smooth, colourful look, consider using smaller stones like pea gravel - its mix of natural hues and soft texture creates a charming effect. If your path will see a lot of foot traffic, crushed stone is a sturdy option that compacts well, giving you a durable, stable surface that stays put.

Don't forget to add an edging material before laying down your chosen stones; this will keep everything in place and save you from having to rake it back into shape.

Recommended aggregates:

  • Gravel provides a stable, well-draining surface that's easy to walk on. Pea gravel gives pathways a natural look and is durable for foot traffic.
  • Crushed stone is a tough and reliable choice for high-traffic paths, providing a stable and attractive surface.

2. Patio Bases

If you want your patio to last, starting with a solid base is key! Aggregates are perfect for creating a stable foundation as they provide excellent drainage and prevent your patio from shifting or sinking over time.

A 4-6 inch layer of compacted aggregate works well to keep pavers or concrete level and steady. This method is especially helpful in areas with freeze-thaw cycles, as the aggregate helps reduce movement and keeps everything in place.

Recommended aggregates:

  • Limestone compacts well, creating a solid base that won't shift, which is essential for supporting pavers and patios.
  • MOT Type 1 is a mix of crushed stone and aggregate fines that forms a dense, level surface ideal for patio foundations.

3. Retaining Walls

Angular gravel and limestone make great backfill choices since the irregular shapes lock together, preventing movement and shifting. Using aggregate also helps with water drainage - an important factor to avoid water buildup and protect your wall from damage. For even more stability, consider adding a layer of fabric between the soil and aggregate.

Recommended aggregates:

  • Gravel is ideal as a backfill for retaining walls, as its angular shape helps lock it in place, supporting the wall while allowing water drainage to reduce pressure from soil.
  • Limestone also works well for backfill due to its compatibility and stability, helping prevent soil erosion around the wall.

4. Driveways and Parking Areas

Tough, rough aggregates like crushed granite or larger crushed stone are excellent choices for high-traffic areas like driveways and parking pads. They hold up well under heavy loads and compact tightly, making them resilient against weathering and regular vehicle use. To make sure your driveway stays smooth and free from ruts, start with a well-compacted sub-base layer of aggregate, followed by a top layer of smaller stones or gravel for a stable, long-lasting surface.

Recommended aggregates:

  • Crushed granite is durable and attractive - perfect for driveways that need to handle heavy loads.
  • Crushed stone adds solid structural support and helps prevent ruts and potholes.

5. Water Features and Drainage Solutions

Aggregates are a great choice for creating beautiful water features and managing landscape drainage. Stones like slate and pea gravel work wonderfully in ponds, fountains, and dry creek beds, adding a natural look while helping water flow smoothly to prevent stagnation. These stones are also excellent for French drains, guiding rainwater away to keep pathways dry and prevent soil erosion.

Recommended aggregates:

  • Slate brings a natural, decorative touch to water features.
  • Pea gravel is perfect for drainage solutions and helps prevent soil erosion.

Tips for Choosing the Right Aggregate

Not quite sure which aggregate is right for your project, or tackling something we haven't mentioned yet? Here are a few tips to help you decide:

  • Functionality: Each aggregate offers different benefits, so look into which would best suit your requirements. For example, crushed rock provides stability for load-bearing surfaces, while pea gravel adds a decorative touch.
  • Drainage Needs: Good drainage is essential in many hardscaping projects, so if needed, choose aggregates that help manage water flow and prevent pooling.
  • Aesthetic Preferences: Aggregates come in various colours and textures - pick the ones that match your design vision for a cohesive look.
  • Maintenance: For high-traffic areas, go for durable aggregates that require minimal upkeep, as this will save you time in the long run.

With these factors in mind, you'll find the perfect fit for your project!

Transform Your Outdoor Space with Wright Readymix

The right aggregate can turn any hardscape project into a stunning outdoor space. If you're looking for the high-quality gravels, sands, and aggregates you need to bring your design to life, Wright Readymix is here to help!

We have a huge range of premium, durable materials perfect for any project. Here's what we provide:

  • Sand
  • Gravel
  • Slate
  • Limestone
  • Ballast
  • MOT Type 1

We'll deliver exactly what you need, right to your site - securely packed in waterproof bags and unloaded exactly where and when you need them. Whatever project you have in mind, you can count on us to help make it a success.

Get a free quote online or give us a call at 0117 958 2090, and let's start creating your beautiful, lasting outdoor space today!

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5 Money-Saving Reasons to Buy Gravel and Aggregates in Bulk
24th October 2024

Gravel, sand, crushed stone, and other aggregates are the foundation of countless construction projects - literally! With so many uses, you'll probably go through several tonnes before you're ready to cut the ribbon on your new structure. The only problem? If you're not careful, those costs can really add up.

Luckily, there's an easy way to save on aggregates without cutting corners: buying in bulk. And it comes with more benefits than you might think!

Read on to learn the top five reasons why bulk buying can save you money, plus some tips on what to do next.

1. Lower Delivery Fees

The biggest savings often come from cutting down on transportation costs. Many suppliers charge a flat fee for each delivery, no matter how much material you're ordering. By ordering in bulk, you can reduce the number of deliveries and avoid paying the same fee multiple times.

As a bonus, fewer trips mean you're using less fuel, which reduces your carbon footprint considerably - a great way to help your business meet its sustainability goals!

2. Reduced Labour Costs

Smaller, more frequent deliveries can often mean extra work, both with handling the materials and coordinating the logistics. When you buy in bulk, you save time and effort by cutting down on the number of times you have to unload and manage smaller batches. It also simplifies your scheduling and tracking, letting you focus your attention elsewhere.

3. Project Time Efficiency

Buying in bulk helps keep your project on track by having all your materials ready to go from the start - no need to wait for the next delivery or deal with interruptions as your team handles each new order. This keeps things running smoothly, prevents delays, and helps your project finish faster, saving you time and money in the long run.

4. Lower Cost Per Unit

Suppliers often lower the price per tonne when you order gravel or aggregates in bulk because it helps them save on packaging, handling, and delivery. Bigger orders mean less hassle for them, so they're able to pass those savings onto you with a discount.

Many suppliers also offer special bulk discounts to encourage larger orders. For example, ordering 50 tonnes of gravel can end up costing much less per tonne than if you were to order just 5 tonnes.

5. Less Waste

Bulk orders typically cut down on the need for extra packaging, which means less waste compared to ordering several smaller loads. This is better for the environment and saves you from having to deal with and pay for extra waste disposal.

Save on Bulk Gravel and Aggregates with Wright Readymix

Now that you're up to speed on the benefits of buying in bulk, the next step is simple - find the right supplier. The good news? You won't have to look far.

At Wright Readymix, we supply high-quality, cost-effective aggregates throughout much of the South, including Bristol, Avonmouth, and Weston-super-Mare. We have a huge range to choose from, including:

  • Sands
  • Gravels
  • Slates
  • Limestones
  • Ballasts
  • MOT Type 1 Hardcore
  • Grano Dust

All of our aggregates strike the perfect balance of quality, affordability, and versatility, making them ideal for almost any project you have in mind. Not sure which one's the right fit for your needs? Just ask!

Once you've picked your aggregate and told us how much you need, we'll pack everything in sturdy, waterproof bags, deliver it right to your site, and even unload it exactly where you need it - hassle free.

Ready to get started? Get a free quote online or give us a call on 0117 958 2090 today!

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5 Key Benefits of Using Professional Screed Delivery Services
30th September 2024

Liquid screed is the perfect way to create a smooth, level surface, whether used on its own or as a base for tiles, carpet, or hardwood. However, the end result largely depends on the quality of the materials and how well it’s applied. While it might seem quicker or cheaper to handle screed preparation and delivery yourself, opting for professional services can offer huge benefits that directly contribute to your project's success.

Still on the fence about using professional screed delivery services? Here are five key reasons why going with the pros is the right choice for your next project!

1. Greater Efficiency

One of the biggest challenges for builders and contractors is keeping projects on schedule. Delays can come from many places, including how soon your screed is ready for use. Professional screed delivery services, like those from Wright Readymix, are designed to eliminate these delays and make this process as smooth as possible.

Thanks to our state-of-the-art mixing equipment, we at Wright Readymix can mix your liquid screed to your precise specifications and deliver it directly to your site, ready to use right away. This cuts out downtime from on-site mixing and takes the guesswork out of the equation - just perfectly mixed screed, exactly when you need it!

2. Consistent Quality

When mixing screed manually or on-site, there's always a chance of inconsistencies. Even minor differences in the water-to-cement ratio or aggregate quality can result in weaker screed, leading to cracks or uneven surfaces over time. Professional screed providers minimise this risk by using advanced equipment and expertise to make every batch perfectly consistent.

At Wright Readymix, we take pride in delivering a precise mix every time. Our liquid screed is carefully formulated to meet strict quality control standards, guaranteeing uniformity and durability for your project. This level of precision results in a flawless, long-lasting finish.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

While it might seem like mixing and delivering screed yourself could save money, it often ends up costing more in the long run. This is because mistakes in the mix or during application can lead to expensive rework, wasted materials, and delays. Professional screed delivery reduces these risks and cuts down on unnecessary costs.

At Wright Readymix, we don’t just supply the screed - we also offer full application services if needed. Our all-in-one approach saves you the hassle of hiring multiple contractors and helps prevent costly delays, saving you money overall.

4. Advanced Equipment and Expertise

Professional screed delivery services offer more than just the materials - they bring expertise. With the experience to handle a wide range of specifications and screed types, including both bonded and unbonded, they help you avoid costly trial-and-error and wasted materials.

At Wright Readymix, we’ve spent years working with contractors and developers across the South, so we understand the unique demands of different projects. Our specialised knowledge and equipment allows us to deliver the best possible results. We can also offer valuable advice, helping you sidestep common mistakes that come from inexperienced preparation and installation.

5. Improved Site Safety

Safety is always a top priority on any construction site. Mixing screed in-house can bring unnecessary risks, from heavy lifting during manual mixing to the dangers of handling raw materials. By partnering with a professional screed delivery service, you can avoid many of these hazards.

At Wright Readymix, we take care of the mixing off-site, and our delivery trucks are equipped with pumps to safely and efficiently transport the screed directly to where it's needed. This reduces site disruptions, cuts down on manual labour, and creates a safer working environment for your team.

Get a Free Quote on Professional Liquid Screed Services in the South West

Need a reliable screed solution for your project? Wright Readymix’s screed delivery and installation services can help you achieve the smooth, durable finish you’re looking for, on time and within budget. Get a free quote online or call us on 0117 958 2090 today!

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Which Aggregate Should You Use for Your Construction Project?
06th August 2024

Aggregates are the unsung heroes of construction. These sturdy, granular materials provide the bulk and strength that turn concrete and asphalt into durable building blocks. Without them, our roads, bridges, and buildings simply wouldn't stand the test of time.

Picking the right aggregate is key to a successful build, but with so many options, it can be tough to know where to start. Luckily, that's where we come in!

At Wright Readymix, we have years of experience working with aggregates of all kinds. Below, we'll look into some of the most common types and where they work best.

What Types of Aggregates Are There?

There are a huge variety of aggregates out there, but a few are used more often than others. Let's take a closer look:

Sand

Sand is a finely grained material with countless uses, especially in mortar, concrete, and plaster.

The type of sand makes a big difference. Sharp sand drains well, making it ideal for outdoor projects like patios and driveways, while softer sand is better suited for indoor jobs like plastering and bricklaying.

Used for: Concrete, mortar, plaster, grout, asphalt, playgrounds, and sandboxes.

Gravel

Gravel is made up of small, smooth stones. Its excellent drainage makes it a popular choice for driveways, paths, and drainage systems. It also forms a sturdy base for roads and buildings.

The size and shape of the gravel can matter. Larger, rough stones are best for supporting heavy loads, while smaller, rounder gravel looks better and is easier on the eye.

Used for: Road base, drainage systems, concrete, asphalt, driveways, walkways, and decorative gardens.

Slate

Slate is renowned for its toughness and timeless beauty. It's a popular choice for roofs, landscaping, and decorative accents. When crushed, slate can be mixed into concrete or used as a stylish topping for paths and patios. Its natural colours and varied textures bring a unique character to outdoor spaces.

Used for: Flooring, countertops, wall cladding, paving stones, garden paths, and patios.

Limestone

Limestone is a versatile natural material with a wide range of uses. Its strength and malleability make it a common ingredient in concrete and asphalt, while its durability allows it to be used for building walls and floors.

Different types of limestone have varying properties, with some particularly suited to withstand the rigours of coastal or riverbank environments.

Used for: Cement, concrete, asphalt, building blocks, building facades.

Ballast

Ballast is a mixture of sharp sand and small stones or gravel. This combination creates a rough, coarse material that is strong and durable. By adjusting the proportions of gravel and sand, builders can tailor ballast to suit various concrete needs.

Used for: Concrete, drainage layers, or sub-bases.

Which Aggregate Should You Choose For Your Project?

There are a few important things you need to consider when choosing the perfect material for your project:

  • Purpose: What's the primary function of the material? Will it form the bedrock of your structure, provide a practical surface, or boost the aesthetic appeal of your space? Clearly defining the material's role will guide your choices.
  • Load-bearing capacity: Assess the weight the material will support. Whether it's the weight of your home or the occasional vehicle, understanding the load is crucial for selecting a material with sufficient strength.
  • Drainage: Consider the material's ability to handle water. If your project needs effective drainage, opt for materials that allow water to flow through freely. For areas prone to moisture, choose materials resistant to water absorption and freezing.
  • Appearance: Visual appeal matters. Think about the desired look and feel of your project. Do you prefer a natural, rustic look, or a modern, sleek aesthetic? The material's colour, texture, and size will contribute to the overall ambiance.

By carefully considering these factors and seeking expert advice, you can create a project that's both practical and pleasing to the eye.

Premium-Quality Aggregates, Delivered to Your Site

You've nailed down the perfect aggregate. Now, let our team deliver it!

Wright Readymix offers a wide range of bulk-bag aggregates to suit any project. Here's why you should choose us: 

  • We offer a wide range of 17 high-quality aggregates, from fine sands to sturdy limestone chippings, to suit any project. Once you've selected your ideal aggregate, we'll handle the rest.
  • Our convenient bagging and delivery service makes sure your materials arrive protected and ready to use. We'll deliver right to your site and carefully unload them in your preferred spot.
  • Unsure which aggregate to choose? Our expert team are happy to help - just get in touch!

Ready to get started? Get a free quote online or call us on 0117 958 2090. We're committed to making your project a breeze!

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