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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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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.

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What is Architectural Concrete & How is it Used in Design?
24th September 2025

Architectural concrete is a versatile material that’s bringing a whole new dimension to construction. It mixes the toughness of traditional concrete with the design freedom that architects and builders prefer. Architectural concrete adds character to any space, whether for a polished floor or an eye-catching exterior. Plus, it stands the test of time.

In this guide, we’ll show you how architectural concrete can bring your next project to life. You’ll find out what makes it special, how it's used in design, and why it’s become a favourite for both residential and commercial projects.

What Makes Architectural Concrete Unique?

Architectural concrete stands out because it’s not just used for structure; it’s crafted to make a statement. Standard concrete stays hidden in walls and foundations. In contrast, architectural concrete is made to be visible and admired.

Architects and builders love it because this material offers design flexibility with:

  • Sleek polished floors
  • Textured facades
  • And decorative features

Best of all, it can be customised in a whole range of ways, from colours and textures to finishes like exposed aggregate or polished concrete. Want something modern and clean? Done. Looking for a more rustic, industrial feel? You’ve got it. It’s that versatility that makes architectural concrete so special. It can be tailored to suit just about any style and project.

The UK construction industry is seeing more demand for flexible building materials. The government reports that concrete and cement production have risen by 2.5% month-on-month recently. This shows how the industry is shifting to materials that are strong and visually appealing. In 2022, Great Britain had around 674,000 self-employed construction workers. These workers are seeking more design flexibility in their jobs.

How is Architectural Concrete Used in Design?

Architectural concrete appears in various projects. It can be found in residential buildings, commercial spaces, and public infrastructure. It’s a material that’s as functional as it is beautiful, making it the perfect choice when you want your designs to look great and stand the test of time.

Residential Applications

For residential projects, architectural concrete provides durability and low maintenance. This is what every homeowner wants. It's often used for driveways, walkways, and facades. The material not only works well but also boosts the property’s overall appearance.

Examples include:

  • Polished concrete floors for that sleek, modern vibe.
  • Exposed aggregate driveways offer both texture and style.
  • Textured facades that make your home’s exterior pop and stay protected for years.

Architectural concrete plays a significant role in achieving the UK’s net zero targets by 2050. It brings essential sustainability benefits to residential projects. The government’s new building rules, introduced in April 2024, focus on better energy efficiency. Concrete’s thermal mass reduces heating and cooling needs in homes. This results in lower carbon emissions for residential buildings.

Commercial Applications

In commercial settings, architectural concrete takes on a much bigger role. It’s used in everything from floors to facades and public spaces. It provides durability for high-traffic areas and design flexibility to fit any commercial style.

For instance:

  • Decorative concrete flooring that can mimic the look of expensive materials like marble without the hefty price tag.
  • Exposed aggregate facades that can make a building stand out and increase curb appeal.
  • Custom concrete furniture or architectural features that leave a lasting impression.

The UK’s architectural, engineering, and construction services market is expected to reach £11 billion by 2030. This growth comes with a compound annual growth rate of 15.5% throughout the decade. This growth is leading to more use of architectural concrete in commercial projects. Developers seek materials that are visually striking and can withstand heavy use in high-traffic areas.

Infrastructure Projects

Architectural concrete isn’t just for buildings. It’s used in infrastructure projects like bridges, highways, and street furniture. It provides the necessary strength for busy areas and offers design options that public spaces should have. Architectural concrete features in urban areas and is used for benches and light posts, as it combines style with utility.

The UK government has outlined a 10-year strategy for infrastructure investment. This significant investment is creating chances for architectural concrete in key projects. It’s suited for places like transport hubs and public buildings. Its durability and design flexibility make it ideal for high-traffic public areas.

For more on residential applications, check out our DIY concrete solutions. Alternatively, if you’re after the right concrete mix for your project, use our concrete volume calculator to help you get started.

How is Architectural Concrete Made?

Architectural concrete is created by blending specific materials. This ensures it meets the project’s structural requirements and design aims. The key difference from standard concrete is the focus on appearance, making sure it looks as good as it performs.

  • Cement: The base component that holds the mix together. White Portland cement is commonly used for its clean colour, ideal for decorative projects.
  • Aggregates: These include sand, gravel, or crushed stone. The type and size of aggregates determine the texture and finish of the concrete.
  • Colour Pigments: Added to the mix to create the desired colour for the finished product.
  • Admixtures: Special ingredients that change the properties of concrete. They make it easier to work with or help it cure faster.

The UK cement industry is putting more emphasis on sustainability. From 2024, companies must collect and report environmental data every three months. Sustainability rules are sparking new ideas in concrete admixtures and production. This shift is making lower-carbon options – like recycled steel reinforcement and sustainably sourced aggregates – the norm in architectural concrete.

Surface Finishing Techniques

Once the mix is ready, the concrete is poured into formwork (the mould used to shape it). Custom form liners can be used to create specific textures or patterns on the concrete surface, giving it its signature look.

  • Exposed Aggregate: A technique where the top layer of the concrete is removed, revealing the natural texture beneath.
  • Polished Concrete: For smooth, high-gloss finishes that are perfect for both floors and surfaces.
  • Formed Concrete: Concrete poured into custom moulds to create unique patterns and textures.

The finishing process significantly affects how the concrete looks. It’s essential to pay attention to detail to achieve the desired result. Check out our range of commercial concrete options or contact us for a bespoke mix tailored to your needs. For further information on our concrete options, check out our DIY concrete solutions. You can also learn about Wrightflow liquid screed preparation for your next project.

Embrace the Strength & Beauty of Architectural Concrete

Architectural concrete is a versatile material that combines strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. It’s great for both homes and businesses. It provides endless design options and durable results. Architectural concrete adds a unique and lasting character to interiors, facades, and landscaping.

At Wright Readymix, we offer bespoke concrete solutions tailored to your project’s specific needs. If you’re renovating your home or managing a significant development, architectural concrete is a great choice. It offers an excellent mix of style and practicality.

Call 0117 958 2090 or get in touch for a free quote and expert advice on how architectural concrete can bring your vision to life.

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What Are the Types of Concrete Finishes & Applications?
18th August 2025

People often see concrete as just a practical material. Yet, with the right finish, it can turn into something beautiful and lasting. Whether you’re building a driveway, office reception, or patio, selecting the right concrete finish is key to the success of your project. Cracked, worn-out, or uneven surfaces not only detract from the overall aesthetic but can also pose serious safety risks. The right concrete finish improves the look and function of your surfaces. It helps them resist heavy traffic, weather, and the test of time.

From polished floors to textured outdoor surfaces, the types of concrete finishes offer a wide range of options. Let’s explore how each type can elevate your space and deliver lasting performance.

Why Concrete Finishes Matter

When it comes to concrete, the finish is what gives it character. The right finish can make a space feel sleek and modern, or rugged and industrial. Concrete finishes also play a vital role in durability, offering protection from the elements and reducing wear over time.

Finishes can also enhance safety. For example, they can provide slip resistance on outdoor surfaces or in damp areas. Therefore, choosing the correct finish isn’t just about aesthetics, as it impacts the long-term performance of the surface. To make a driveway durable for heavy foot traffic or to improve its look, it’s essential to know how each finish works with its surroundings.

If you’re uncertain about the right finish, try our concrete volume calculator. It can help you determine how much concrete you need for your project.

Types of Concrete Finishes

There are various concrete finishes, each with its unique characteristics and ideal use cases. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common finishes and where they shine.

Brushed Concrete Finish

A brushed concrete finish is made by pulling a broom over freshly poured concrete. This leaves a textured surface behind and is particularly valued for its practicality. It provides slip resistance while still offering a clean and simple look. This makes it ideal for outdoor walkways, patios, and driveways where safety and low maintenance are paramount.

Applications:

  • Driveways
  • Pathways
  • Ramps

Benefits:

  • Slip resistance
  • Simple and inexpensive application
  • Excellent for wet areas

Verdict: The brushed finish is a versatile option for both functional and aesthetic purposes. It enhances traction and is perfect for outdoor surfaces exposed to weather and moisture.

Polished Concrete Finish

Polished concrete is a sleek, glossy finish achieved by grinding the surface with diamond abrasives. This type of finish is most commonly seen in modern interiors like showrooms, office floors, and retail spaces. It offers a clean, sophisticated look with minimal maintenance, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.

Applications:

  • Interior floors
  • Showrooms
  • Commercial spaces

Benefits:

  • Low maintenance
  • Glossy appearance
  • Highly durable

Verdict: A polished concrete finish delivers a refined, modern aesthetic with minimal upkeep. It’s perfect for high-traffic interior spaces that require a durable, attractive surface.

Exposed Aggregate Concrete Finish

Exposed aggregate is a decorative concrete finish. It shows off the natural beauty of the aggregates, like stones, pebbles, or sand, in the mix. This finish is ideal for creating textured, visually interesting surfaces.

Applications:

  • Patios
  • Driveways
  • Garden paths

Benefits:

  • Textured
  • Durable
  • Aesthetically unique

Verdict: Exposed aggregate concrete provides a rugged, unique texture. It not only looks great but also offers superior durability, making it ideal for outdoor applications.

Troweled Concrete Finish

A troweled concrete finish is known for its smooth, polished look. This finish is created by using a trowel to smooth and level the surface. It's often found in industrial and commercial spaces that need a neat and clean appearance. While it provides a professional appearance, it can be slippery, so it’s better suited for indoor environments.

Applications:

  • Industrial floors
  • Basements
  • Garages

Benefits:

  • Sleek and smooth
  • Easy to maintain
  • Professional look

Verdict: Troweled concrete creates a sleek and smooth surface. It’s great for industrial and commercial floors, but while visually appealing, it’s best suited for dry indoor areas.

Stamped Concrete Finish

Stamped concrete imitates costly paving materials like brick, slate, and stone. It gives you the same look but without the high price and extra maintenance. This finish involves pressing patterns into freshly poured concrete to create decorative surfaces. Often used in patios, walkways, and driveways, stamped concrete offers both style and strength.

Applications:

  • Patios
  • Driveways
  • Walkways

Benefits:

  • Customisable designs
  • Aesthetic appeal
  • Cost-effective

Verdict: Stamped concrete is an affordable way to imitate costly materials like brick or slate. It’s perfect for outdoor spaces and adds a touch of elegance to driveways or patios.

Choosing the Right Concrete Finish for Your Project

When deciding on the best concrete finish for your project, several factors need to be considered. First, think about the location and usage of the surface. Outdoor areas, such as driveways and patios, need finishes that resist weather and offer traction. On the other hand, interior floors, such as those in showrooms or offices, may benefit from a polished finish for both style and ease of maintenance.

Weather exposure is another important factor. If your concrete surface will be in wet conditions, choose finishes like brushed or exposed aggregate. These options offer good slip resistance and durability when it’s wet. Traffic levels are also crucial. Areas with heavy traffic, like stores, need finishes that resist wear and keep their appearance.

At Wright Readymix, we offer high-quality concrete mixes tailored to suit any finish. Our expert team is here to help you choose the best option based on your needs, location, and design preferences. For more specific information on the right concrete mix, check out our detailed guide on types of concrete mix.

Get Lasting Results with the Right Concrete Finish

A thoughtfully selected concrete finish can improve any area. It offers durability for busy spaces and a stylish look for your outside. The right finish can also improve safety, protect from weather damage, and create lasting curb appeal.

At Wright Readymix, we provide concrete mixes for every finish. This way, your surfaces will look great and last for years. Whether you’re updating your driveway or installing a polished interior floor, we have the perfect concrete mix to suit your needs.

Call 0117 958 2090 or get in touch and get the right concrete mix for your project today.

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What Makes Sustainable Concrete Environmentally Friendly?
11th August 2025

As a member of The LGW Group, we’re invested in providing sustainable concrete solutions for your project. This includes small DIY jobs and large commercial developments. You can learn more about the different types of concrete we provide on our types of concrete mixes page.

The reason our coalition of leading concreting and construction experts in Wales and the South of England is looking to transition to more sustainable concrete solutions is simple:

Portland cement production is already responsible for over 8% of global carbon emissions. This is mainly due to the energy-intensive production process.

However, sustainable concrete offers an effective solution to this challenge. Using recycled materials like fly ash, slag, and silica fume can replace part of the cement. According to the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), this partial replacement of clinker or cement with fly ash and granulated blast furnace slag lowers CO2 emissions.

Our team aim to provide green concrete options for all types of projects, whether residential or commercial. In this post, we’ll explore how sustainable concrete works, its benefits, and why it’s the ideal choice for any modern construction project.

1. Carbon Footprint Reduction

Sustainable concrete significantly reduces CO2 emissions, a critical issue in the construction industry. Traditional cement production is one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions globally. In 2018, UK carbon dioxide emissions from concrete and cement were 7.3 million tonnes, approximately 1.5% of UK greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable concrete includes materials like fly ash, slag, and silica fume to replace part of the cement. This approach helps reduce carbon emissions in concrete production.

Yet, when you pick sustainable concrete, you help lessen the environmental impact of your project. Recycled materials reduce emissions and also preserve valuable natural resources. This supports a cleaner, greener world.

2. Waste Reduction & Recycling

Sustainable concrete uses recycled materials, like fly ash, slag, and crushed concrete. This helps keep waste out of landfills and also reduces the need for new materials. Recycled and secondary aggregates account for around 29 per cent of the total aggregate use in the UK. This plays an important role in the UK’s current circular economy, where resources are reused rather than discarded. The UK Concrete Circular Economy Framework promotes keeping concrete’s value during its entire life cycle.

Recycling concrete and using by-products lowers the environmental impact of construction. It reduces the need for raw materials and lessens landfill waste. Our team are already prioritising these sustainable practices in every batch of concrete we produce. We do this because we want to ensure that our work benefits both your project and the planet.

3. Durability & Long-Term Benefits

Using recycled aggregates and industrial by-products makes concrete stronger and more durable. MPA trials of low-carbon multi-component cements met BS 8500 standards and showed outstanding durability. This means structures last longer and require fewer repairs over time. In fact, Earth Friendly Concrete say they can reduce embodied CO2 by up to 70% while delivering superior durability. This means savings over time and less need for new materials. It also offers even more benefits for the environment.

The increased durability of sustainable concrete means:

  • Fewer maintenance cycles
  • Reduced resource consumption
  • And far less waste

For projects like foundations, driveways, and commercial buildings, the answer is clear. Choosing sustainable concrete ensures your investment is eco-friendly and built to last.

Applications of Sustainable Concrete

Sustainable concrete is highly adaptable and works well for various construction projects. From homes to big commercial projects, its environmental benefits are apparent in many uses.

Residential Foundations & Driveways

Sustainable concrete gives homeowners a strong, lasting base for homes and driveways. It also helps lower environmental impact. Sustainable concrete is a wise choice for your project. It keeps things eco-friendly and lasts long, whether you’re building your dream home or paving a new driveway.

Commercial Buildings

Sustainable concrete is ideal for large-scale construction. It offers the strength and durability needed for offices, retail spaces, and industrial facilities. This material can withstand heavy traffic and daily wear. Also, its long-term benefits — like less maintenance and fewer repairs — mean lower costs and a smaller carbon footprint over time.

Pavements & Infrastructure

Sustainable concrete is also ideal for public infrastructure, including roads, pavements, and sidewalks. Its strength against wear and harsh weather makes it suitable for these uses. It offers a green solution for urban areas that need durable, eco-friendly materials.

Build a Greener Future with Sustainable Concrete

As eco-friendly construction grows, sustainable concrete is at the forefront. Using recycled materials and industrial by-products, like fly ash and slag, cuts carbon emissions. It also saves resources and helps a circular economy. It’s tough, long-lasting, and good for the planet. This makes it the best choice for both home use and large projects.

At Wright Readymix, we supply quality, sustainable concrete solutions. These help you build in a smarter, greener way. You can trust that our products offer both strength and longevity. Contact us today to see how our eco-friendly concrete can help your project. Whether it’s for a home or a business, we have the perfect solution for you.

Call 0117 958 2090 or contact us today for a free quote and a sustainable solution for your concrete needs.

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