Ready Mixed Concrete Key Terms

Find out more on ready-mixed concrete by learning key terms

Ready-mixed concrete is manufactured in a plant according to a specific recipe and delivered to a construction site in a cement mixer. The main advantages of ready-mixed concrete over on-site concrete are the greater precision of the mixture and reduced chances of miscommunication at the work site. The primary disadvantage of ready-mix concrete is the reduction in flexibility in the concrete components. The variety of possible mixtures allows ready-mixed concrete to be used for many different applications.

 

Jointing

Jointing is the practice of pouring concrete in sections according to its thickness. The purpose of jointing is to allow for the expansion of concrete after it hardens.
Try: The Ready Mixed Concrete Company provides a detailed definition of jointing, including examples of ideal jointing.

Curing

Curing is the process of maintaining concrete at a desired moisture content and temperature until the concrete has stabilized. This allows the concrete to achieve its maximum strength and durability.
Try: The Wisconsin Ready Mixed Concrete Association provides general guidance on creating quality exterior concrete, including proper curing techniques.

Transit mixed concrete

Transit mixed concrete is mixed in a cement mixing truck as it is driven from the mixing plant to the job site. This allows the cement to remain in a semi-liquid state until it can be poured.
Try: Portland Cement Association provides a more detailed description of the different types of concrete, including transit mixed concrete.

Hot weather concreting

Hot weather concreting is the process of pouring concrete when the temperature is higher than the desired temperature range for that particular mixture. Hot weather can greatly increase the chances of cracks in the concrete.
Try: L&L Redi Mix describes the problems of hot weather concreting, as well as detailed instructions for pouring concrete in hot weather.

Fiber reinforcement

Fiber reinforcement is the process of distributing fibers throughout the concrete while its is still wet. The fibers lock together to increase the tensile strength of the concrete.
Try: S&G Ready Mixed Concrete provides a detailed explanation of fiber reinforcement for concrete and a do-it-yourself guide for concrete.

Portland cement

Portland cement is a finely ground powder that is primarily composed of limestone. It is the active ingredient in concrete, which also contains water, sand and stone among other ingredients.
Try: Ready Mixed Concrete provides a detailed description of the differences between portland cement and concrete.

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