Ready mixed concrete is not just for big building sites. Homeowners across London use it every day for garden projects, driveways, and home improvements. But is it the right choice for your small job? This guide covers everything you need to know, from minimum order quantities to cost comparisons and preparation tips.
What Is Ready Mixed Concrete?
Ready mixed concrete is made at a batching plant and delivered to your site by a mixer truck. The concrete arrives ready to pour, so there is no need to measure or mix anything yourself. Each batch is produced to a specific mix design, which means you get consistent strength and quality every time.
According to The Concrete Centre, ready mixed concrete is batched from a central plant and tailored to the contractor’s or homeowner’s exact requirements. This makes it a reliable choice for projects of all sizes, including domestic ones.
For a full overview of the products available, visit our ready mix concrete page.
Is Ready Mixed Concrete Suitable for Small Projects?
Yes, ready mixed concrete works very well for small residential projects. Here is why:
Consistent quality. Because the concrete is mixed at a controlled plant, every batch meets the same standard. There is no risk of an uneven mix or incorrect water-to-cement ratio, which can cause cracking or weak spots.
Time saving. The concrete arrives ready to use. You do not need to hire a mixer, buy separate materials, or spend hours mixing by hand.
Less waste. You order exactly what you need. There is no excess material to dispose of and no leftover bags of cement going hard in the shed.
No equipment hire. Skipping the mixer means no rental fees, no transport costs, and no maintenance hassle.
What Are the Minimum Order Requirements?
This is one of the most common questions from homeowners. Our standard minimum order is 1 cubic metre. For very small jobs that need less than 0.5 cubic metres, bagged concrete might be more practical. If you are unsure how much you need, use our concrete volume calculator to get an accurate figure before you order.
Metered Concrete: Pay Only for What You Use
Express Concrete offers a metered concrete service, which means you only pay for the exact volume used on site. This is a key advantage for smaller projects where it can be difficult to predict the exact amount needed. There is no guessing, no over-ordering, and no wasted spend.
Which DIY Projects Is Ready Mixed Concrete Best For?
Ready mixed concrete is ideal for a wide range of home and garden projects. Common uses include:
| Project | Typical Volume | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shed base | 0.5 – 1.5 m³ | Needs a flat, level sub-base first |
| Small patio | 1 – 3 m³ | Mix design can affect surface finish |
| Fence post footings | 0.2 – 0.5 m³ | Often suitable for metered delivery |
| Garden path | 0.5 – 2 m³ | Depth of 100 mm recommended |
| Driveway (small) | 3 – 6 m³ | Reinforcement may be needed |
| Small extension base | 2 – 5 m³ | Check load requirements with a builder |
For any of these projects, our team can advise on the right mix and volume. We supply domestic customers across London every day and are happy to help with smaller orders too.
How Does Cost Compare to Mixing Your Own Concrete?
Many homeowners assume that mixing their own concrete will save money. In most cases, it does not. Here is a rough comparison for a 2 cubic metre project in 2025:
DIY mixing costs:
- Cement, sand, and aggregate: around £300 – £400
- Mixer hire (per day): around £60 – £80
- Your time (estimated 8 – 12 hours of physical work): not counted in pounds, but very real
- Risk of mix errors, wasted materials, and potential remedial costs
Estimated DIY total: £360 – £480 (plus time and effort)
Ready mixed concrete costs:
- Delivered, professional quality ready mix for 2 m³: around £190 – £280
Estimated ready mix total: £190 – £280
For most projects over 1 cubic metre, ready mixed concrete is cheaper overall once you factor in labour, equipment, and the risk of getting the mix wrong.
For very small volumes of under 0.5 m³, pre-mixed bags may still be a better fit. See our guide on how much a 20 kg bag of ready mix concrete covers to decide whether bags or a delivery is the better option for your project.
Preparation Tips for Homeowners
Getting the site ready before delivery day will save you a lot of time and stress.
1. Clear the area. Remove any grass, loose soil, or debris. The ground needs to be firm and level.
2. Set up your formwork. Use timber boards to create a frame that shapes the pour. This keeps the concrete in place while it sets.
3. Check access. Our mixer trucks need clear access to the pour site. Measure any gates, alleyways, or narrow driveways before you book. If access is tight, ask us about pump options.
4. Have your team ready. Concrete needs to be placed and levelled quickly after it arrives. For most small pours, two or three people is enough. Have your tools ready: a rake, float, and straight edge at a minimum.
5. Think about the weather. Avoid pouring in very hot or very cold conditions if you can. Hot weather speeds up the setting time. Cold weather (below 5°C) slows curing and can cause frost damage if the concrete is not protected.
6. Wear protective gear. Fresh concrete can irritate skin. Always wear gloves, waterproof boots, and eye protection.
When Should You Hire a Professional Finisher?
For simple flat pours like shed bases and paths, many homeowners are happy to do the finishing themselves. However, there are situations where hiring a professional to finish the concrete is worth it:
- Pattern imprinted or decorative concrete. This requires specialist tools and experience to get the timing right.
- Large pours over 3 m³. Finishing a large area quickly takes practice and extra hands.
- Sloped or drainage-sensitive areas. Getting the fall right on a driveway or patio takes skill.
- Structural pours. Any concrete that forms part of a building foundation or load-bearing slab should involve a qualified builder or structural engineer.
If you are unsure, our team is always happy to advise. We work with domestic customers across London and can point you in the right direction. Learn more about what we offer on our ready mix concrete for domestic projects page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does ready mixed concrete take to set? You can usually walk on it after 24 to 48 hours. Full strength takes around 28 days. Avoid vehicle traffic for at least 7 days.
Can I order a small quantity? Our standard minimum order is 1 cubic metre. For smaller volumes, our metered service may help, or bagged concrete might suit your needs. Contact our team to discuss your project.
What mix do I need for a shed base or patio? A standard C20 or C25 mix is suitable for most domestic applications. Our team will recommend the right grade when you get in touch.
How do I work out how much concrete I need? Use our concrete volume calculator to get an accurate estimate. Just enter the length, width, and depth of your pour.
Ready to Get a Quote?
Whether you are planning a garden path, a shed base, or a small driveway, Express Concrete can help. We have been supplying London homeowners and builders since 1991, with plants in Barking, Erith, Wembley, and Chessington to cover all areas of the city.
Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation quote. Our friendly team is ready to help you plan your project and find the right concrete for the job.
