Skip to main content

What Concrete Do I Need?

What Concrete Do I Need?

Written on .

When you’re starting a building or DIY project, one of the first questions that comes up is: what kind of concrete do I actually need? At GB Concrete & Pump, we get it—there are a lot of options, and it can be confusing if you’re not in the industry. So, we’ve put together this simple guide to help you figure out the right mix for the job.

Let’s Talk Concrete Grades: C15 to C40

Concrete grades are basically a way to measure how strong the concrete is after it’s had time to set (28 days, to be exact). The higher the number, the stronger the mix. Here’s a quick breakdown:

C15 Concrete

  • Strength: 15 N/mm²
  • Best for: Light domestic work like pathways, patios, and those initial blinding layers.
  • Keep in mind: This one isn’t meant for anything structural.

C20 Concrete

  • Strength: 20 N/mm²
  • Best for: Home foundations, floors, and garage bases.
  • Why choose it: Strong enough for most everyday projects around the house.

C25 Concrete

  • Strength: 25 N/mm²
  • Best for: Reinforced bases, trench fill foundations, and light commercial jobs.
  • Versatility: It’s a solid choice for both homes and smaller commercial sites.

C30 Concrete

  • Strength: 30 N/mm²
  • Best for: Driveways, roadways, and medium-duty floors.
  • Bonus: Stands up well to the elements and harsh chemicals.

C35 Concrete

  • Strength: 35 N/mm²
  • Best for: Structural work like beams, columns, and reinforced slabs.
  • Tough stuff: Great for farms, factories, or anywhere that needs extra durability.

C40 Concrete

  • Strength: 40 N/mm²
  • Best for: Big commercial jobs—think highways, heavy-duty foundations, and large-scale infrastructure.
  • Heavy-duty: This is the go-to when strength really matters.

And What About Screed?

While concrete forms your foundation, screed gives you that final, smooth layer. It’s a mix of cement and sharp sand that’s applied on top of a concrete base.

Why Use Screed?

  • To level out floors before laying tiles, wood, carpet, or any other finish.
  • To create a smooth, even surface.
  • To cover underfloor heating pipes and help spread the warmth evenly.

There are a couple of types to choose from:

  • Traditional Screed: Mixed on-site and takes a bit longer to dry.
  • Liquid Screed: Flows easily, self-levels, and dries quicker.

Still Not Sure?

No worries—we’re here to help. At GB Concrete & Pump, we offer friendly advice, quality concrete mixes, and prompt delivery with pumping services to keep your project moving.

Get in touch today to chat with our team or book your concrete delivery. Whether it’s a simple garden path or a major commercial job, we’ve got the right mix for you.

Popular Articles