Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Ready Mix Concrete
Ordering ready mix concrete may seem simple, but there’s a lot riding on getting it right. Whether you're pouring a residential foundation, a commercial slab, or a DIY patio, accuracy, timing, and communication are key. Even small mistakes can lead to costly delays, product waste, or structural issues.
At Orgain Ready Mix, we help contractors, builders, and homeowners get the right mix delivered at the right time, every time. To make your next project go as smoothly as possible, here are the most common mistakes to avoid when ordering ready mix concrete.
1. Underestimating or Overestimating the Amount of Concrete Needed
This is one of the most frequent issues we see. Ordering too little concrete causes delays and weak cold joints. Ordering too much means wasted material and money.
Tip: Use a concrete volume calculator and double-check your measurements. Provide accurate dimensions (length x width x depth) and always round up slightly to account for spillage and over-excavation.
2. Not Considering Site Access and Delivery Logistics
Even the best concrete mix won’t help if we can’t reach your site or unload safely.
Mistakes include:
- Narrow driveways or low-hanging branches
- No clear path for the chute
- Unstable ground near the pour site
Tip: Walk the site in advance. Make sure the truck can access your location and that ground conditions can support heavy equipment. Let us know if a pump truck is required.
3. Choosing the Wrong Concrete Mix for the Job
Not all concrete is created equal. The mix you need for a driveway isn’t the same as one for a vertical wall or slab on grade.
Tip: When ordering, tell us:
- What you're building
- Load requirements
- Desired finish (e.g., broom, stamped, smooth)
- Curing conditions (hot, cold, wet, etc.)
Our experts will recommend the right mix for strength, set time, and durability.
4. Failing to Plan Around the Weather
Weather plays a big role in concrete performance. Pouring during rain, extreme heat, or freezing temperatures can weaken your results or ruin your pour entirely.
Tip: Check the forecast and be flexible. If conditions aren’t ideal, it's better to reschedule than risk a failed project. Orgain Ready Mix can advise on additives and timing strategies to help with temperature-sensitive pours.
5. Not Having Enough Help on Site
Concrete waits for no one. If your crew isn’t ready when the truck arrives, you risk delays, poor finishing, or wasted material.
Tip: Have all your forms, tools, and crew ready before the truck shows up. Concrete begins setting immediately, so every minute counts.
6. Forgetting to Ask About Additives or Special Requirements
Sometimes a basic mix isn’t enough. You might need:
- Fiber reinforcement for crack resistance
- Retarders or accelerators depending on temperature
- Color additives for decorative concrete
Tip: Talk to our team about your goals. We’ll help you select the right additives or admixtures to match your design and performance needs.
7. Last-Minute Orders or No Scheduling Buffer
Concrete delivery isn’t something you want to leave to the last minute—especially during peak construction season.
Tip: Schedule your delivery at least a few days in advance. If you're coordinating multiple trades or steps, build in buffer time in case something runs behind.
Get It Right With Orgain Ready Mix
We’ve been helping Tennessee builders and contractors get the job done since 1952. Our team is here to support you from estimate to delivery with dependable service and high-quality mixes.
Need help placing an order or not sure what mix you need?
Contact Orgain Ready Mix today. Let’s make sure your next pour is smooth, strong, and stress-free.
