Ordering the right amount of ready-mix concrete is one of the most important parts of any building project. Order too little and you could be left waiting for another delivery. Order too much and you may end up paying for concrete you don’t need.
Whether you’re planning a driveway, patio, foundations, shed base or another construction project, knowing how much concrete you need can make the ordering process much easier.
At MBM ReadyMix, we supply ready-mix concrete for a wide range of domestic and commercial projects. In this guide, we’ll explain how to calculate the amount of concrete you need and what to consider before placing your order.
How Is Concrete Measured?
Ready-mix concrete is normally ordered by cubic metre (m³).
To work out the volume required, you need three measurements:
- Length of the area
- Width of the area
- Depth of the concrete
The basic calculation is:
Length × Width × Depth = Volume
If your measurements are in metres, the result will be in cubic metres.
Example
Imagine you’re creating a concrete base that is:
- 5 metres long
- 4 metres wide
- 100mm deep
First, convert the depth into metres:
100mm = 0.1m
Then:
5 × 4 × 0.1 = 2m³
You would therefore need approximately 2 cubic metres of concrete.
Don’t Forget the Concrete Depth
The required depth can vary depending on what you’re using the concrete for.
For example, a pedestrian patio may require a different depth from a driveway that will regularly carry vehicles.
The correct depth can also depend on the ground conditions, reinforcement, sub-base and the intended use of the concrete.
If you’re unsure about the specification for your project, it’s worth getting professional advice before ordering.
Use the MBM ReadyMix Concrete Calculator
If you don’t want to work out the calculation yourself, our online calculator makes it easy to estimate how much concrete you need.
Simply enter the dimensions of your project and the calculator will help you work out the required volume.
Use the MBM ReadyMix Concrete Calculator:
https://www.mbmreadymix.co.uk/calculator/
It is particularly useful when planning projects such as:
- Driveways
- Patios
- Foundations
- Garage bases
- Shed bases
- Paths
- Floors
- Extensions
- Concrete slabs
- Commercial and construction projects
Should I Order Exactly the Calculated Amount?
It’s important to remember that a calculator provides an estimate based on the measurements you enter.
In a real project, the actual amount required can be affected by uneven ground, variations in depth, excavation and other site conditions.
For this reason, you should consider whether an allowance is appropriate rather than ordering exactly the calculated volume.
However, you also don’t want to significantly over-order, as unused concrete can be difficult and costly to deal with.
Taking accurate measurements before ordering is therefore extremely important.
What Information Do I Need Before Ordering Ready-Mix Concrete?
Having a few details ready can make the ordering process much easier.
You should know:
1. The volume required
Work out the approximate cubic metres required for your project.
2. The type and strength of concrete required
Different projects can require different concrete specifications.
3. Your delivery address
This allows the supplier to establish whether delivery is available to your location.
4. Site access
Consider whether a concrete mixer lorry can safely access the area where the concrete is needed.
5. Where the concrete will be discharged
Think about how far the concrete needs to travel from the lorry to its final location.
Planning these details in advance can help prevent delays on delivery day.
What Happens If I Order Too Little Concrete?
Running short of concrete during a pour can be frustrating.
If the concrete runs out before the job is complete, you may need another delivery. Depending on availability and the circumstances, this could interrupt your project and potentially affect the finish of the concrete.
That’s why accurate measurements and proper planning are so important.
What Happens If I Order Too Much?
Ordering significantly more concrete than you need can also be a problem.
Ready-mix concrete is delivered to the site ready to use, so you need to have a suitable plan for the entire quantity being delivered.
Unused concrete can create additional waste and expense.
The aim is to order the right amount for your project, based on accurate measurements and the appropriate specification.
Ready-Mix Concrete for Your Next Project
Whether you’re a homeowner working on a garden project or a contractor working on a larger construction job, getting the concrete quantity right is an important first step.
MBM ReadyMix provides ready-mix concrete for domestic, commercial and construction projects, helping customers get the concrete they need delivered directly to their site.
If you’re unsure how much concrete your project requires, start with our online calculator:
Calculate How Much Concrete You Need
Once you’ve worked out the approximate volume, you can get in touch with MBM ReadyMix to discuss your concrete requirements and arrange delivery.
Ready to Order Your Concrete?
Don’t guess how much concrete you need.
Use the MBM ReadyMix calculator to work out your approximate requirements, then contact us to discuss your order and delivery.
MBM ReadyMix – Ready-Mix Concrete Delivered to Your Site.