Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear, straightforward answers to common questions regarding ordering ready mixed concrete, pump hire, volume calculations, and delivery scheduling in Luton.
Whether you are planning a DIY garden slab or managing a large commercial groundworks contract, here are answers to the most frequent inquiries our Luton team receives:
How does volumetric concrete mixing work?
Unlike barrel drum mixers that carry pre-mixed concrete from a batching plant, volumetric trucks carry separate bins of cement, sand, stone, and water. When the truck arrives at your site, the ingredients are mixed continuously in a high-speed mixing auger at the rear. This produces 100% fresh concrete, allows real-time slump and mix adjustments, and stops mixing the exact second your pour is filled, ensuring you only pay for what you lay.
What is the minimum order quantity for concrete delivery in Luton?
Our minimum delivery quantity is just 1 cubic metre (1m³). Because we use volumetric mixers, you do not need to worry about ordering too much; you will only be charged for the exact quantity mixed and placed on site.
How much notice is needed to book a delivery?
We recommend booking 24 to 48 hours in advance to secure your preferred morning or afternoon delivery window. However, depending on daily fleet dispatch, we can often accommodate same-day or next-day deliveries across Luton and Dunstable. Call our dispatch desk on 07454 230152 for live availability.
How long do I have to unload the concrete truck?
We provide 10 minutes of free offload time per cubic metre of concrete ordered (e.g., 3m³ includes 30 minutes free offload). This is ample time for direct pouring or wheelbarrowing. If offloading takes longer due to site delays, a demurrage charge of £2.00 per minute applies.
Can I pour concrete in the rain?
Light rain is generally not an issue, but heavy rain can wash cement out of the top surface layer, weakening the slab and creating a dusty finish. If heavy downpours are forecast, it is best to cover the prepared trench with polythene sheeting or reschedule the pour.
What is the difference between a ground line pump and a boom pump?
A ground line pump uses flexible steel and rubber pipes coupled along the ground, making it ideal for residential properties with narrow side gates, paths, or indoor pipe runs (reaching over 150m). A boom pump uses a hydraulic overhead arm to lift concrete pipes over obstacles such as house roofs, garages, walls, or fences up to 47m high.
How do I calculate how much concrete I need?
Multiply Length × Width × Depth (in metres) to find the volume in cubic metres (m³). For example, a slab 6m long, 3m wide, and 100mm (0.1m) deep requires 6 × 3 × 0.1 = 1.80m³. We recommend adding 10% for uneven ground excavation.
How long does concrete take to cure and set?
Concrete begins initial setting within 1 to 2 hours of batching. It is typically firm enough for light foot traffic after 24 to 48 hours. However, full design compressive strength is achieved after 28 days of curing. Heavy vehicles should not be parked on new driveways for at least 7 days.