Introduction
When it comes to concrete supply in London, contractors face a key decision: ready mixed concrete or on-site concrete mix. Each method has its own advantages, limitations, and ideal use cases. Choosing the wrong type can lead to project delays, structural issues, or unnecessary expenses.
With London being one of the busiest construction hubs in Europe, this choice becomes even more critical. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), London construction output exceeded £28 billion in 2024, much of which relied on concrete as the primary building material.
This blog compares ready mixed and on-site concrete, highlighting which option is best suited for different London builds.
What Is Ready Mixed Concrete?
Ready mixed concrete (RMC) is manufactured in a batching plant under controlled conditions and then delivered to site in specialised trucks. It’s known for its consistency, quality, and speed of delivery.
Advantages of Ready Mixed Concrete:
- High quality & consistent strength (BS 8500 compliance).
- Time-efficient, ideal for large projects.
- Minimal wastage with precise batching.
- Eco-friendly due to reduced dust and emissions.
Disadvantages of Ready Mixed Concrete:
- Limited workability window (typically 90 minutes).
- Requires good site access for trucks.
- Not cost-effective for very small projects.
What Is On-Site Concrete Mix?
On-site concrete is mixed directly at the construction site using raw materials like cement, sand, aggregate, and water.
Advantages of On-Site Concrete:
- Flexible mix adjustments based on site conditions.
- Ideal for small-scale or remote projects.
- Can be produced in smaller batches, reducing upfront costs.
Disadvantages of On-Site Concrete:
- Quality depends on labour skills and supervision.
- Slower process, increasing project timelines.
- Higher material wastage compared to ready mixed concrete.
Comparison: Ready Mixed vs. On-Site Concrete in London
| Feature | Ready Mixed Concrete | On-Site Concrete Mix |
| Quality Control | High, consistent, tested | Varies by labour skill |
| Delivery Speed | Fast, premade batches | Slow, mixed on-site |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Better for medium to large projects | Better for very small projects |
| Environmental Impact | Lower carbon footprint | Higher wastage |
| Flexibility | Pre-set mix ratios | Adjustable on site |
| Best Use | Housing, infrastructure, commercial builds | Small bases, repairs, remote locations |
Which Is Best for London Builds?
London construction projects range from small residential extensions to mega infrastructure projects like Crossrail. The choice depends on the project’s scale, budget, and timeline.
When to Choose Ready Mixed Concrete:
- Large commercial projects (offices, retail centres).
- Residential housing developments.
- Infrastructure projects (roads, bridges, railways).
- Projects requiring strict quality control and durability.
When to Choose On-Site Concrete Mix:
- Small-scale works like garden walls, shed bases, or pathways.
- Projects in restricted-access areas where RMC trucks can’t reach.
- Remote builds far from batching plants.
- Jobs where last-minute mix adjustments are needed.
Facts & Figures: London Concrete Industry
- London uses over 8 million cubic metres of concrete annually.
- 80% of large-scale projects prefer ready mixed concrete for consistency.
- On-site mixing is still common in small domestic builds, but demand for RMC is growing by 6% annually.
- Concrete contributes to nearly 90% of construction materials used in the capital.
Why Pro Mix Concrete Is the Right Choice
Whether you choose ready mixed or on-site mixed concrete, Pro Mix Concrete delivers tailored solutions across London. Benefits include:
- Volumetric concrete trucks for flexible, on-demand batching.
- Concrete pump hire for restricted-access sites.
- Customised mix designs for every application.
- 24/7 availability with same-day delivery options.
- Affordable pricing with zero waste policy.
For expert guidance, call 020 7458 4747 and let Pro Mix Concrete help you select the right mix for your project.
FAQs
Q1: Is ready mixed concrete always better than on-site mixing?
Not always. Ready mixed is ideal for larger projects, while on-site mixing can be more practical for small-scale builds.
Q2: Can I get small quantities of ready mixed concrete in London?
Yes, Pro Mix Concrete offers small load deliveries tailored to domestic projects.
Q3: What if my site has limited access for RMC trucks?
You can hire a concrete pump, or choose on-site mixing depending on the project.
Q4: Is on-site mixing cheaper?
For very small jobs, yes. But for medium to large projects, ready mixed concrete is more cost-effective in the long run.
Q5: Which is more eco-friendly: ready mixed or on-site concrete?
Ready mixed concrete has a lower environmental impact due to reduced dust, waste, and emissions.
