Author: gbconcrete

When it comes to concrete supply, not all solutions are created equal. At GB Concrete & Pump, we specialise in volumetric concrete and for good reason. While traditional ready mix concrete has been the go-to option for decades, volumetric concrete offers a smarter, more efficient, and cost-effective alternative.

What’s the Difference?

• Ready Mix Concrete is batched at a central plant and delivered in rotating drum trucks. Once it’s on the road, the clock starts ticking – any delay can result in wasted product and extra costs.
• Volumetric Concrete, on the other hand, is mixed on-site using specialised trucks. Each ingredient is stored separately and combined only when and as needed.

Why Volumetric Concrete Wins

1. No Waste – You Only Pay for What You Use

One of the biggest advantages of volumetric concrete is zero waste. With ready mix, if you over-order, you’ll likely have excess concrete that can’t be used and you’ll pay to dispose of it. Under-order, and you’re stuck waiting for another batch to arrive, causing project delays.

With GB Concrete & Pump’s volumetric service, we mix exactly what you need on-site. No guesswork. No surplus. No paying for concrete that gets sent back.

2. Flexibility on the Job

Conditions on-site can change fast. Whether you suddenly need more or less material, volumetric trucks adapt in real time. This flexibility simply isn’t possible with ready mix, where once it’s batched, the ratio is fixed.

3. Fresh Mix, Every Time

Because volumetric concrete is mixed on-site, it’s always fresh. This means better quality and performance for your pour, compared to ready mix which may sit in a drum for hours before it arrives.

4. Environmentally Friendly

Less waste means a smaller environmental footprint. With volumetric concrete, you’re only producing what’s required, reducing the amount of raw material used and minimising unnecessary transportation.

Why GB Concrete & Pump?

At GB Concrete & Pump, we’re committed to delivering the most efficient and cost-effective concrete solution for your project. Our volumetric fleet ensures you receive the highest quality mix, with total flexibility and no hidden costs.

Want to learn more? Get in touch with us to find out more about how we can help with your project.

Let’s be honest, summer is a great time to get concrete work done, but it also comes with a few quirks. Hot weather, fast drying times and surprise rainstorms can all mess with a good pour if you’re not prepared.

As one of the leading concrete suppliers in the West Midlands, providing everything from volumetric concrete solutions to on-site concrete pumping, we’ve seen what happens when summer concrete goes wrong and we’ve built our entire process to make sure that doesn’t happen to you.

Whether you’re planning a new driveway, patio, or foundation, here’s what you need to know about the most common summer concrete problems and how we keep things running smoothly.

1. Concrete Cracking Too Soon (aka the “spiderweb surprise”)

The problem:

In hot, dry weather, concrete can dry too fast. That quick surface drying leads to shrinkage cracks and while some cracking is normal, too much of it (especially too early) is a red flag.

How we prevent it:

We adjust the mix, schedule precise deliveries, and, when needed, use on-site pumping to ensure the concrete is placed quickly and evenly – all to prevent those dreaded early cracks. Our team keeps an eye on weather conditions and uses water-reducing agents, curing compounds, or even shade if needed. It’s not just about pouring, it’s about managing that concrete every step of the way.

2. Curing Too Fast in the Heat

The problem:

Concrete needs time to cure slowly so it can reach its full strength. If it dries out too fast, it gets weaker and no one wants a flimsy slab.

How we prevent it:

With our volumetric concrete systems, we can tailor the mix on-site, giving us more flexibility to adjust water content and additives for optimal curing, even under scorching sun. We also use proper curing techniques like keeping the surface moist, covering it with blankets or plastic, or applying a curing compound. It’s like sunscreen for your concrete, a little protection goes a long way.

3. Surface Scaling or Dusting

The problem:

When concrete sets too fast or isn’t finished correctly in hot weather, the surface can flake or powder. That means your driveway or patio might look fine at first… until it starts wearing down.

How we prevent it:

Whether we’re delivering with our fleet or pumping directly into hard-to-reach areas, careful placement and timing help us avoid surface scaling and dusting. Timing is everything with concrete, and our crew knows exactly when to trowel, broom, or float for a strong surface that lasts.

4. Surprise Summer Showers (a classic)

The problem:

You’d think it’d be easy to avoid rain in the summer – but we’ve all seen the forecast change five minutes after a pour starts. Rain on fresh concrete can cause pitting, uneven textures, and even weaken the top layer.

How we prevent it:

We always check and double-check the forecast. And if there’s any chance of rain, we’re ready with tarps, covers, and quick communication to pause or protect the pour. Our concrete pumping service means we can cover large areas quickly if the weather suddenly changes – less exposure, less risk. If it’s not the right time to pour, we wait – simple as that.

5. Concrete “Burns” (Overworking in the Heat)

The problem:

Finishing concrete too soon or overworking the surface in hot conditions can trap water and ruin the finish especially if the top dries before the rest of it settles.

How we prevent it:

This comes down to experience. Using volumetric mixing and on-site pumping, we control exactly when and how the concrete hits the slab, reducing the risk of overworked surfaces in hot conditions. Our team knows how to read the slab, not just the clock. We pace the job to the conditions not the other way around.

You Deserve Concrete That Lasts, Even in Summer

Here’s the bottom line: concrete is a long-term investment. Whether it’s holding up your house, your driveway, or your new patio, you want it done right, especially when the sun is blazing and time is tight.

At GB Concrete & Pump, we’ve spent years learning how to work with the summer, not against it. We know what to watch for, what to adjust, and how to make sure your project looks great and holds strong for years to come.

Let’s build something solid this summer. No cracks, no surprises. Get in touch with GB Concrete to find out how we can make that happen for you.

Summer is fast approaching, the hard hats are on and for good reason. Summer is prime time for concrete projects, whether you’re laying the foundation for a dream home, pouring a new patio, or upgrading a commercial site. At GB Concrete & Pump, we’ve been around enough summers to know: if you want strong, lasting results, now’s the time to pour.

Here’s why summer and concrete go together like peanut butter and jelly (or, if you’re on-site with us — like coffee and early mornings).

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1. Perfect Weather for Pouring and Curing

Concrete loves consistency and summer delivers. Warm temperatures and steady dry days create ideal conditions for pouring and curing concrete properly. When the weather behaves, so does the concrete.

In colder seasons, you’re battling rain, frost, and every contractor’s favorite word: “delays.” But in summer? We can pour, set, and cure concrete efficiently, helping your project move forward without unnecessary hiccups.

Quick Tip: While a little heat is good, a concrete pour during a heatwave isn’t a walk in the park (for us or your slab). Our team carefully times pours and uses techniques to prevent premature drying, so your project stays on track and crack-free.

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2. Longer Days = Faster Progress

Summer’s extra daylight hours are more than just an excuse for a post-work barbecue. They allow our team to maximise work windows, keeping projects on schedule and clients smiling.

More daylight means:

• More flexible scheduling
• Fewer weather-related interruptions
• Quicker turnaround times

When we say we’ll show up and get it done, we mean it and summer makes that promise a lot easier to keep.

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3. Ideal Timing for Autumn Move-Ins and Business Openings

Thinking about hosting a big backyard bash in Summer/Autumn? Opening a new shop before the holiday rush? You’ll want your concrete work completed now — not when the first frost sneaks up and everyone’s scrambling to winterise.

Concrete isn’t just about pouring; it’s about giving it proper time to cure and strengthen. Starting your project in the sunshine ensures it’s ready for whatever life (or your in-laws) throws at it come Autumn.

Reality check: Good concrete work takes more than a weekend and a prayer. Let’s get started early so your project isn’t fighting the clock.

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4. Better Ground Conditions = Easier Site Prep

Summer doesn’t just help what’s above ground — it makes everything underfoot a whole lot easier too. Dry, stable soil means better excavation, faster form setting, and fewer surprise costs when heavy equipment hits the site.

Translation? Your project runs smoother, faster, and more affordably. And you can spend less time worrying about mud and more time planning your next big move.

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Ready to Build Something Solid This Summer?

At GB Concrete & Pump, we don’t just show up with a truck, we bring years of experience, an eye for detail, and a can-do attitude that turns plans into concrete reality (pun fully intended).

Whether it’s a garden upgrade, a new business foundation, or a commercial project, we’re ready to deliver high-quality results — and maybe a few laughs along the way.

Let’s pour something amazing together.

Get in touch today for a free consultation and let’s talk concrete!

Concrete may be rock-solid, but even the toughest surfaces can crack under pressure—literally. Whether it’s your driveway looking like a roadmap of tiny motorways or a patio that’s more crumble than concrete, you might be wondering: should I repair or replace damaged concrete?

Well, let’s cement the facts and break it down (not like your concrete did, though).

Crack Me Up… Or Not?

Small cracks? No big deal. Concrete’s got a tough life – weather, moisture, wear and tear. Minor surface cracks are usually nothing to lose sleep (or slabs) over. These can often be patched up quickly and affordably, like giving your concrete a little facelift.

If you’re using volumetric concrete or on-site concrete pumping, even small repairs can be done efficiently, ensuring the fix blends seamlessly with the rest of your slab.

But if those cracks are wide enough to fit a slice of pizza in (okay, maybe a breadstick), you may be dealing with structural issues that need more than a surface fix. When cracks go deep, it might be time to break up (pun very much intended) with your current concrete.

The Ugly Truth About Spalling and Scaling

If your concrete surface looks like it’s been attacked by a pack of concrete-eating squirrels (read: flaky, peeling, or chipping), that’s called spalling or scaling. While some surface-level damage can be resurfaced, too much of it is a sign your concrete’s past its prime.

Using volumetric concrete, we can tailor replacements on-site to match your existing slab, giving your driveway or patio a seamless finish even when extensive spalling means a full replacement is needed.

Sinking Feeling?

If your slab has settled like a sponge cake, you’ve got a sunken concrete problem. Minor sinking might be fixable with levelling, but major dips could mean bigger issues below the surface – like soil erosion or poor prep work.

In those cases, replacing might be the solid move. Concrete pumping can help us get new concrete into tricky spots, making even a sunken slab manageable. Better to lift your spirits and your slab.

So… Should I Repair or Replace Damaged Concrete?

Here’s a quick guide to help:

Problem	Repair	Replace
Small, surface cracks	✅	❌
Deep or wide cracks	❌	✅
Minor surface flaking	✅	❌
Extensive spalling/scaling	❌	✅
Slight unevenness	✅	❌
Major sinking or heaving	❌	✅

If you’re not sure whether you’re dealing with a crack-up or a full concrete catastrophe, don’t worry—we’re here to pave the way.

Still Not Sure? Let’s Talk.

At GB Concrete & Pump, we’ve seen it all. Cracks, chips, dips, and everything in between. Whether you need a quick patch or a full-on slab swap, we’ll give it to you straight (and level).

So if you’re asking yourself, “Should I repair or replace damaged concrete?”—don’t go it alone. Give us a call, and let’s lay the groundwork for a solid solution.

👉 Contact us today and let’s get cracking (in the good way)!

A new analysis of Companies House data reveals that nearly 39.9% of newly established building development and house building companies in the UK have closed within five years.

The study, conducted by GB Concrete & Pump, highlights the significant challenges facing the sector amid volatile market conditions and the risks for companies attempting to establish themselves in construction.

High Failure Rates in the Building Development Sector

The study, covering company data from January 2019 to December 2023, looked at incorporation records across key segments of the building development industry. By tracking companies that have entered administration, liquidation, or dissolution, the findings paint a clear picture of survival rates across several building sub-sectors.

Across all categories examined, a striking 41.1% of new companies have ceased operations. However, the closure rates vary significantly across different construction segments, indicating unique pressures faced within each sub-sector:

Demolition
Closure rates are highest in demolition, where 56.3% of new firms fail – making it the most volatile and capital-intensive segment.

Site Preparation
46.6% of site preparation firms have closed, reflecting high costs and operational complexity.

Construction of Commercial Buildings
45.7% of commercial construction companies have ceased trading, underlining the competitive nature of the sector.

Domestic Building Construction
43.8% of domestic building firms have closed, showing that even housing-focused businesses face significant risk.

Building Project Development
This segment shows greater resilience, with a lower closure rate of 33.9%.

The Takeaway

The recent Labour budget announcement has introduced a potential lifeline for small housebuilders, promising an additional £3bn in guarantees. However, industry experts caution that the measures may come too late for companies already struggling under economic pressures.

Commenting on the findings, our spokesperson for GB Concrete & Pump, Director Vinny Singh said: “Our analysis reveals the reality of operating within the building development and housebuilding sector. With nearly half of new companies struggling to stay open, it’s essential for newcomers to recognise the challenges and strategically plan to improve their odds of long-term success.

The high closure rate of new businesses could potentially impact the overall growth and innovation within the sector. Fewer new entrants could lead to a less dynamic and competitive market, potentially affecting the supply of new homes and commercial buildings.

Although Labour has confirmed an additional £3bn in guarantees to support small house builders, it may already be too late for firms already struggling to afloat. Not to mention, it is not yet clear how this support will be allocated.”

If you’re planning a project and want reliable concrete supply or expert advice, contact GB Concrete & Pump to discuss your requirements.

Transforming your garden doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the most effective ways to upgrade your outdoor space is by laying a patio – creating a practical area for relaxing, entertaining, or giving children a safe place to play.

While it might seem like a job best left to professionals, laying a patio is entirely achievable for beginners. The key is good preparation and, most importantly, ensuring your concrete base is properly level.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through each stage of the process so you can get it right first time with some expert tips from our team of concrete specialists.

How To Lay A Patio – Step By Step

Step 1: Plan Your Patio

A successful patio begins with careful planning.

Think about:

• The size and shape of your patio
• How you’ll use the space
• The type of slabs or paving you prefer

It’s also essential to plan for drainage. Your patio should have a slight slope (typically a fall of 1:60) running away from your house to prevent water pooling.

Step 2: Gather Tools and Materials

You’ll need the following tools and materials for the job:

• Patio slabs or pavers
• Sand or sub-base material (such as MOT Type 1)
• Concrete mix
• A spirit level
• A trowel and spade
• A plate compactor or tamper
• String and pegs for marking out
• A rubber mallet

Having everything on hand will make the job far smoother.

Step 3: Mark and Prepare the Area

• Use string and pegs to mark the area for your patio.
• Dig out the area to a depth of around 150-200mm (6-8 inches), allowing space for your sub-base, concrete, and slabs.
• Clear away debris and level the ground to create a stable foundation.

Step 4: Lay the Sub-Base

Spread around 100mm of MOT Type 1 or crushed stone across the area.

Compact it thoroughly using a plate compactor or tamper until it’s firm and level. This forms the foundation of your patio and prevents future movement or sinking.

Step 5: Mix and Pour the Concrete

The next step is preparing your concrete mix. For patios, a standard mix ratio of 1 part cement to 5 parts ballast (or sand and gravel) works well. Add water gradually until you achieve a smooth consistency.

Pour the concrete over the compacted sub-base, spreading it evenly using a trowel. Here’s where leveling becomes critical:

Why Leveling Concrete is Crucial

A perfectly level concrete base ensures:

• Even Surface: Prevents wobbling pavers or slabs, providing a stable surface for walking and furniture.
• Proper Drainage: Avoids water pooling, which can damage your patio over time.
• Long-Term Durability: Minimises the risk of cracks or uneven settling, which can lead to costly repairs.

To achieve proper leveling, use a straight-edge or screed board to smooth the concrete. Check the level frequently using a spirit level to maintain consistency and the correct slope for drainage.

Step 6: Lay the Patio Slabs

Once the concrete base is level and slightly firm, start laying your patio slabs. Begin in one corner, using a rubber mallet to tap each slab into place. Maintain even spacing between slabs, using spacers if necessary.

Step 7: Fill the Joints

After laying all the slabs, fill the gaps with jointing sand or a mortar mix. Sweep the sand into the joints and compact it to ensure a secure finish.

Step 8: Finishing Touches

Once everything is in place, clean the surface of the slabs and let the patio set for at least 24-48 hours before using it.

Top Tips For Successfully Laying A Patio

• Always wear protective gear when working with concrete
• Double-check levels at every stage
• Don’t rush the curing process
• Plan your work around mild weather conditions

Need Help with Your Concrete?

If you’re unsure about mixing or pouring concrete, getting the right support can make all the difference.

GB Concrete & Pump supplies high-quality concrete and pumping services across Birmingham and the Midlands. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or a larger job, having the right materials delivered and placed correctly helps ensure a strong, level base from the start.

If you need a helping hand, get in touch with us and see how we can help.