With the main ingredient for many modern buildings being concrete, the quality of the mix is crucial to creating quality buildings. Concrete of different varieties has been used in construction since the days of Ancient Rome, but it’s since the nineteenth century that modern techniques have allowed for concrete constructions to take truly take off. Our cityscapes and skylines are as they are thanks to this most flexible of building materials. Traditionally, the ready mix type of concrete has been the most common, but today a range of technologies have allowed for some flexible solutions to the old problems of getting enough concrete to the right place and at the right time. Modern concrete mixers and trucks now include the volumetric concrete mixer, which offers a great solution for construction firms and concrete suppliers.
Prepared for Demand?
The recession has proved particularly challenging for the construction industry as the housing market has slumped and government and public bodies have cut back on their major building projects. Even where projects are still available, the need to offer the cheapest most flexible service is essential for those looking to win contracts. Concrete suppliers, in particular, need to be able to respond quickly to orders and changes in demand if they are to win those all-important contracts, and the volumetric concrete mixers can prove a useful addition to your fleet if you are to be able to offer the most flexible services.
The Key to Survival
Volumetric mixers offer a simple, flexible way to get exactly what the client wants to site. With the raw materials stored in separate compartments on the truck concrete is mixed to order when and where it’s needed. This means that one truck can visit a number of clients – cutting down on trips back to base and the additional fuel costs that this involves. One of the simplest ways to survive any recession is well known to be able to work smarter, and this is what the volumetric mixer allows firms to do. Not only can orders be mixed to exact quantities on site, but different grades can be mixed for different jobs. While one build may need mortar and the next screed this is not an obstacle for this type of concrete mixer. Ultimately, this flexibility is what can make the difference between survival or otherwise in the difficult business climate of today.
Buying or Hiring
For construction firms and concrete suppliers struggling to survive in a depleted market, this type of mixer can offer the simplest and best solution to help you stay ahead of the competition. Adding one to your fleet will certainly allow you to offer the most flexible service to your clients and one that can respond quickly to orders and be adaptable if quantities change. The eternal problem of under or over ordering is eliminated. Buying this type of equipment is, of course, a big investment and there are a number of options. Hire purchase is a favoured method although, for short term needs, leasing can be a great solution. Outright purchase is also an option and the investment is certainly worthwhile. Used concrete mixing equipment is certainly worth a look, for firms hoping to increase their flexibility and productivity at an affordable price. For used equipment it’s worth dealing with a hire firm who have used plant for sale. This is most likely to have a known service history and established firms will offer guarantees and post-sales support to ensure that you get the most out of your new plant.
Whatever the economy has planned for us next, for construction firms, offering flexible solutions and being able to meet changing demands quickly is essential. Concrete mixers, especially volumetric mixers, can leave you streets ahead of the competition.
