FAQs

No, there are many concretes available that can be tailored to suit most early strength requirements, such as Hanson’s Fastrack concrete.

Although standard mixes are suitable for a wide range of applications, choosing a specialist mix can give added benefits and peace of mind. Hanson have a number of specialist mixes all have been developed in accordance with British and European Standards. 

Concrete will not achieve its full strength for 28 days but, by the use of special admixtures and/or alternative cement types, it is possible to produce a concrete which may be usable within two or three days. Ambient temperature will have an effect on the time required before the concrete can be trafficked; ambient temperatures below 20°C will require longer curing time and would benefit from the use of insulating coverings (such as frost blankets or straw) to maintain the rate of strength gain. All concrete should be cured for at least seven days before it will achieve full durability, best achieved by using curing agents or covering with polythene sheets, which are applied to the surface of slabs. 

Wet concrete can cause severe chemical burns to skin and eyes. This is because water mixed with cement becomes a strong alkali (caustic) liquid. In addition to being caustic this liquid also acts as a local anaesthetic which means burns can occur without feeling any pain at the time.

Severe concrete burns are likely to require skin graft reconstruction. If there is a risk of contact with wet concrete (or any other mixture of cement and water) then waterproof clothing should be used to protect the parts of the body that are at risk – waterproof gloves if there is a risk of hand contact; waterproof boots if there is a risk of foot contact; waterproof trousers if there is a risk of leg contact, etc.

When working with wet concrete you should always be alert to the risk of accidental contact. As soon as you are aware of skin or eye contact, stop what you are doing and thoroughly wash the affected area. In the case of contact with the eye, medical advice should then be sought to ensure that all traces of the concrete have been removed.

The risk of chemical burns is only present when concrete is wet. Once it has set the alkaline liquid is no longer present and it is safe to touch.

If used incorrectly, all equipment can present a risk. People may be under increased pressure to finish quickly before the ready-mixed concrete sets so it is worth ensuring everyone understands the operating instructions before the job starts.

If the mixer truck is fitted with a conveyor or a pump is used, you should provide an adequate ‘exclusion zone’ to prevent accidental injury.

Concrete pumps operate under high pressure so extra care should be taken at the joints in the line. Also, the area by the fill hopper should be avoided as this presents a risk of ‘blow back’.

Yes. Hanson has developed its EcoCrete® range of low carbon concretes to make it easier to access low carbon concretes. EcoCrete® reduces the CO₂ emissions associated with standard CEM I concrete by up to 85 per cent, helping contractors and clients meet their carbon reduction targets. The range contains Regen, a cement replacement product. Regen is a ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), which is classed as a by-product and can reduce the CO₂ associated with the manufacture of concrete. Read more about EcoCrete®.

We understand that our 6m³ and 8m³ trucks aren’t always suitable for deliveries requiring small volume orders or with restricted access. Which is why Hanson Concrete offers a mini mix operation under the brand Supamix. This is a dedicated small contract delivery service for Hanson Premix customers available from Supamix plants based across the North East,Yorkshire and Cumbria.

• Supamix customers benefit from:
• Quick and friendly service 
• A single point of contact 
• Handy small trucks 
• Quality assured products (QSRMC accreditation) 
• Easy, flexible payment options 

Supamix purpose built Mini Mix trucks are available in loads ranging from 0.5m³ up to 3m³. For more information on arranging local, small load deliveries please call 0800 028 3543.

Why should I use Hanson’s Farm Range instead of other standard mixes?

• Hanson’s Farm Range is specifically designed for farms and farm buildings. These easy to use products are highly durable, crack resistant and hygienic. They comply with all relevant agricultural standards and when laid correctly, are highly resistant to abrasion, erosion and chemical attack.

How soon can I use a vehicle after placing my concrete?

• The concrete should not be subjected to vehicle usage for 7 days without protecting the surface. Early usage by heavy vehicles can cause cracking. If early use is required, Hanson will be able to design a concrete to suit your needs. For further advice contact your local technical team.

Does Hanson’s Farm Range comply with DEFRA guidelines on manure storage?

• Yes, Hanson’s Farm Range of ready mix concrete is specially designed for farms and farm buildings, from livestock flooring and crop storage to waste containment and slurry tanks.

Is Hanson’s Farm Range available from my local plant?

• Yes, it can be supplied from all Hanson depots without special notice.

How thick should I lay the slab?

• The usual recommendation is 150mm, but this should be increased if there are significant loadings or poor ground conditions.

Do I need to reinforce the ready mix concrete?

• Often ground supported slabs do not need structural reinforcement and crack control mesh is not required when using any of the Hanson’s Farm Range. Structural steel fabric mesh can also be replaced. Please contact your local technical team for a bespoke design.

Why should I use Hanson’s Home Range instead of other standard mixes?

• Our Home Range concrete products have been developed specifically for DIY and domestic use, in accordance with British Standards. These easy to use products produce a hardwearing and durable finish, ideal for the domestic environment.

How long will my product last?

• We have nearly 50 years’ experience of providing high quality, reliable products and are a member of the Quality Scheme for Ready Mix Concrete (QSRMC). Our Home Range products will outperform standard concrete products and, if placed and finished properly, will provide years of good service.

How long do I have before the concrete will go off?

• As a guide, allow 2 hours. This can be affected, however, by any of the following: Weather conditions, e.g. if it’s hot, the time can be shorter Retarders can prolong the time by between 4 and 8 hours.

How long can the truck be on site?

• This can be negotiated on order but generally we don’t charge for up to 30 minutes once the truck has arrived on site. After this time, a charge will then be applied.

Does the concrete meet NHBC and Local Authority standards?

• Hanson’s Home Range concrete has been designed to meet all relevant Building Regulation requirements.

What does the term slump mean?

• Slump is a value associated with concrete consistence. It is a measurement of how workable the concrete is and is measured in mm. Consistence comes in two main categories called classes, Slump or Flow. Hanson offers a default slump class S3 (130mm) which is suitably workable for all types of normal concrete placement including placement by concrete pump. For concrete placed on a slope, dependant on the gradient a lower class is recommended, S2 (70mm). Fence posts and kerb backing require even lower values S1 (30mm). Self placing concretes and self compacting concretes are usually supplied at a value where the concrete actually flows under a head of its own pressure F5 (580mm). If you are unsure about the level of consistence you need, our professional sales team are on hand to help and advise.

If you have any further questions or would like more information on any of the above queries, please contact us.