At National Mini Mixers, we’ve been supplying quality ready mix concrete to customers across Sheffield and South Yorkshire since 1985. A common question we hear is: “What’s the strongest type of ready mix concrete?” Whether you’re planning a commercial project or a home improvement job, understanding concrete strength is crucial for long-term durability.
Understanding Concrete Strength
Concrete strength is measured in newtons per square millimetre (N/mm²). This measurement shows the compressive strength of concrete – how much pressure it can handle before breaking. The strength is typically tested after the concrete has cured for 28 days, which is the industry standard for measuring full strength.
In the UK, different grades of concrete are marked with “C” followed by a number indicating the strength. For example, C40 concrete has a compressive strength of 40 N/mm².
Common Grades of Concrete
Different projects need different types of concrete with varying strengths:
| Grade | Strength (N/mm²) | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| C10 | 10 | Non-structural uses |
| C20 | 20 | Domestic floors, foundations |
| C25 | 25 | Footings, reinforced bases |
| C30 | 30 | Pavements, driveways |
| C40 | 40 | Heavy-duty, structural work |
| C50+ | 50+ | Specialised, high-load areas |
The Strongest Ready Mix Concrete
C40/50 and Above
The strongest commonly available ready mix concrete is C40/50, with a compressive strength of 40-50 N/mm² after 28 days of curing. This high-strength concrete mix is perfect for projects that need to support heavy loads or withstand harsh conditions over the long term.
For specialised projects, even stronger concrete mixes like C45, C50, and up to C70 are available. These are typically custom-designed for specific projects with demanding requirements.
High-strength concrete is commonly used for:
- Structural beams and columns
- Industrial floors for heavy machinery
- Bridges and high-rise buildings
- Environments exposed to severe weather
Reinforced Concrete Options
For projects needing extra strength, reinforced concrete grades offer superior performance. These combine high-strength concrete with steel reinforcement for demanding conditions.
At National Mini Mixers, we provide a wide range of concrete options for all types of projects.
What Makes High-Strength Ready Mix Concrete Better?
Consistent Quality
Our ready mix concrete is produced in controlled environments, ensuring precise measurements and consistent strength across every batch. As an experienced concrete supplier, we ensure that your concrete meets the exact British Standard specifications needed.
Advanced Mix Design
High-strength concrete mixes often include special additives that improve workability, setting time, or durability. These carefully designed mix proportions ensure optimal performance.
Specialised Delivery
We can tailor our concrete to your project’s needs. Our concrete pumping service makes it easy to place concrete precisely where you need it, even in hard-to-reach areas.
When Do You Need the Strongest Concrete?
Most domestic projects don’t require the absolute strongest concrete available. For home projects, grades like C20 or C25 are usually sufficient.
However, you might need high-strength concrete (C40 or higher) for:
Structural Foundations
Large buildings and bridges need concrete that can support massive weights over the long term.
Industrial Floors
Warehouses and factories need floors that can withstand heavy machinery and constant traffic.
Exposed Environments
Structures facing harsh weather conditions or chemicals benefit from higher-strength concrete.
FAQs About Concrete Strength
What factors affect concrete strength?
The water-to-cement ratio, quality of materials, curing conditions, and additives all affect concrete strength. Professional ready mix suppliers carefully control these factors.
How long does concrete take to reach full strength?
While concrete continues to strengthen over time, it typically reaches about 70% of its strength after 7 days and its specified strength after 28 days of proper curing.
Can weather conditions affect concrete strength?
Yes, extreme temperatures during pouring and curing can affect concrete strength. Professional concrete suppliers account for weather conditions when creating their mixes
Is the strongest concrete always the best choice?
Not necessarily. The right concrete strength depends on your specific project requirements. Using concrete that’s stronger than needed might increase costs unnecessarily.
For more information about concrete strength grades and requirements, you can refer to the UK Government Building Regulations.
As a reliable concrete supplier, National Mini Mixers provides high-quality ready mix concrete that meets British Standard specifications. We deliver throughout South Yorkshire, with same-day service available to ensure your concrete arrives exactly when you need it.
