We often have people ask us advice on our ready mix concrete products. Here are some of the more frequently asked questions answered for you.
When it comes to ready mix concrete, you may have some questions. Check out our FAQs - Hanson

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Home Ready Mix
Concrete Delivery

Home Range Concrete Our home range of ready mix concrete - Hanson

Farm Ready Mix
Concrete Delivery

Farm Range Concrete Our farm range of ready mix concrete - Hanson

FAQs
answers to your ready mix concrete questions

Home Concrete FAQs

Why should I use Hanson's Home Range instead of other standard mixes?
Our Home Range concrete products have been developed specifically for DIY and domestic use, in accordance with British Standards. These easy to use products produce a hard-wearing and durable finish, ideal for the domestic environment.

How long will my product last?
We have nearly 50 years' experience of providing high quality, reliable products and are a member of the Quality Scheme for Ready Mix Concrete (QSRMC). Our Home Range products will outperform standard concrete products and, if placed and finished properly, will provide years of good service.

How long do I have before the concrete will go off?
As a guide, allow 2 hours. This can be affected, however, by any of the following:

  • Weather conditions, e.g. if it's hot, the time can be shorter
  • Retarders can prolong the time by between 4 and 8 hours.

How long can the truck be on site?
This can be negotiated on order but generally we don't charge for up to 30 minutes once the truck has arrived on site. After this time, a charge will then be applied.

Does the concrete meet NHBC and Local Authority standards?
Hanson's Home Range concrete has been designed to meet all relevant Building Regulation requirements.

What does the term slump mean?
Slump is a value associated with concrete consistence. It is a measurement of how workable the concrete is and is measured in mm. Consistence comes in two main categories called classes, Slump or Flow. Hanson offers a default slump class S3 (130mm) which is suitably workable for all types of normal concrete placement including placement by concrete pump. For concrete placed on a slope, dependant on the gradient a lower class is recommended, S2 (70mm). Fence posts and kerb backing require even lower values S1 (30mm). Self placing concretes and self compacting concretes are usually supplied at a value where the concrete actually flows under a head of its own pressure F5 (580mm). If you are unsure about the level of consistence you need, our professional sales team are on hand to help and advise.

EasyWay ®

Will it take the weight of a domestic vehicle?
Yes, however it's important that the concrete is laid to the correct depth on a suitable well compacted base.

How long before I can use it?
Ideally, the concrete should not be used by vehicles for 7 days.

EasyFound ®

Will the concrete be resistant to chemicals in the ground?
The concrete mix can be modified to cater for more aggressive ground conditions.

Is the concrete easy to place in foundations?
Yes, EasyFound has been formulated for ease of placement and workability.

EasyGround ® & EasyGround Plus ®

How soon after placing can I lay screed?
As soon as the concrete is hard enough to be worked on. This is normally a 24 hour period.

How do I finish the surface?
This depends on the application. Please contact us for finishing options.

If you have any further questions or would like more information on any of the above queries, please contact your local office who can help you further.

Farm Concrete FAQs

Why should I use Hanson's Farm Range instead of other standard mixes?
Hanson's Farm Range is specifically designed for farms and farm buildings. These easy to use products are highly durable, crack resistant and hygienic. They comply with all relevant agricultural standards and when laid correctly, are highly resistant to abrasion, erosion and chemical attack.

How soon can I use a vehicle after placing my concrete?
The concrete should not be subjected to vehicle usage for 7 days without protecting the surface. Early usage by heavy vehicles can cause cracking. If early use is required, Hanson will be able to design a concrete to suit your needs. For further advice contact your local technical team.

Does Hanson's Farm Range comply with DEFRA guidelines on manure storage?
Yes, Hanson's Farm Range of ready mix concrete is specially designed for farms and farm buildings, from livestock flooring and crop storage to waste containment and slurry tanks.

Is Hanson's Farm Range available from my local plant?
Yes, it can be supplied from all Hanson depots without special notice.

How thick should I lay the slab?
The usual recommendation is 150mm, but this should be increased if there are significant loadings or poor ground conditions.

Do I need to reinforce the ready mix concrete?
Often ground supported slabs do not need structural reinforcement and crack control mesh is not required when using any of the Hanson's Farm Range. Structural steel fabric mesh can also be replaced. Please contact your local technical team for a bespoke design.

If you have any further questions or would like more information on any of the above queries, please contact your local office who can help you further.