Keeping an eye on your costs is essential to most types of building work, whether it’s a domestic or commercial project. Therefore, it’s a good idea to know how much concrete you need for the job. Here’s our easy guide to calculating concrete volumes.
Measure the Pouring Space for Your Concrete Volume
Concrete is measured in cubic metres, so to work out the volume, you’ll need to calculate how much will be required to fill the space. It’s worked out by multiplying the width, length and height (or depth) of the area in metres. This is easier if it’s a neatly proportioned space such as a shed base, but it can be more difficult with unique shapes.
At Network Concrete, we provide you with a handy concrete volume calculator to help you decide on the amount you need. Even if you’re using concrete that’s mixed onsite, it’s a good idea to have a rough idea about volumes required, especially if you need a quote or to factor these costs into your budget.
Prevent Over or Under Ordering Concrete
One of the biggest concerns when it comes to ordering concrete is that you’ll buy the wrong amount. If you order too much, you’ll end up paying for concrete that’s not required, not to mention facing the hassle of getting rid of concrete you no longer need.
On the flip side, if you don’t order enough concrete, you may need an emergency supply if you realise too late, and you could pay over the odds for a smaller batch to be delivered. If you want to prevent this from happening, one of the best types of concrete you can choose is volumetric concrete.
Only Pay for What You Use
Volumetric concrete is the term used to describe concrete that’s mixed on-site rather than ready mixed concrete that’s prepared before it arrives. It’s one of the most popular types of concrete available because of the flexible way it’s produced.
The ballast, cement and water are all held in separate compartments in the volumetric truck, so nothing is mixed until it reaches your site. Once the lorry arrives, the operative can programme you a specific mix, producing the exact amounts required so that you’ll only pay for what you need.
This mixing method is also useful if you need different concrete strengths for various applications as a new batch can be created from the same truck while it’s on-site. While there’s usually a minimum order charge, most volumetric lorries can make as little as one cubic metre.
Ready to Order Concrete?
If you need more advice or would like to place a bespoke concrete order, contact the team at Network Concrete. We cover locations in and around Sussex, including Crowborough, Copthorne and Eastbourne. For a free, no-obligation quote, call now on 0800 222 9099.
