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If you’re thinking about installing a heat pump, especially an air source heat pump, one thing you can’t overlook is the base it sits on. A strong and level foundation helps the system work properly and last longer. At Concrete in Cornwall, we help homeowners and installers across the region get their bases right before installation begins. Here's what you should know about concrete bases. 
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Ever scratched your head wondering, are concrete and cement the same thing? You’re not alone. These two terms get tossed around like they’re twins, especially by DIY newbies or folks eyeing a home renovation project. Spoiler: they’re not the same. Cement is a powdery player in the construction game, while concrete is the heavy-duty result you actually walk on. Let’s unpack what sets them apart, how they work together, and why it matters for your next build.  Pouring concrete is like crafting a masterpiece, everything hinges on timing and conditions lining up just so. You’ve likely heard that concrete needs time to set before rain can hit, but how long does that really take? Usually concrete will need 4-8 hours of setting time however, the answer isn’t set in stone, it varies greatly with factors like temperature, humidity, concrete thickness and the mix itself. Knowing how long for concrete to set before rain can save your project from a soggy mess. Let’s dive into the curing process, unpack what affects it, and share strategies to keep rain from ruining your hard work.  Ever pondered what keeps residential buildings standing tall and sturdy? The secret lies in the concrete beneath your feet. From foundations to flashy finishes, residential concrete for your home comes in many forms, each with its own strengths and quirks. Standard ready-mix might be the go-to for its versatility, but options like high-performance, lightweight, and architectural concrete open up a world of possibilities. Curious about what these mixes can do for your next home project? Let’s break it down and explore why the right residential concrete matters more than you might think.  Concrete flooring is a staple in homes, workshops, and businesses across the UK, from new builds, rugged farmsteads to sleek coastal cafés. Its popularity stems from a mix of practicality and versatility, making it a top pick for many. If you’re considering concrete for your next project, understanding its strengths and weaknesses is key to making a smart choice. At Concrete In Cornwall, we’ve poured and polished countless floors, so we’ve seen it all. This guide dives deep into the pros and cons, with extra tips to help you get the most out of your concrete floors.  Polishing concrete is more than a task, it’s an art that turns rough slabs into glossy, durable surfaces ideal for Cornish homes, barns, or coastal cafés. At Concrete In Cornwall, we’ve perfected this craft, delivering polished finishes that withstand the region’s damp air and rugged charm. If you’re a DIY enthusiast or a builder aiming for a sleek showroom floor, this guide takes you through the process with detailed steps, pro tips, and the right tools. Ready to shine up your concrete? Let’s dive in.  Whether you’re laying the groundwork for a large family home , a barn restoration, or a commercial space in the city, picking the right concrete mix is the most important part when starting a new building project. Curious about what those concrete grades mean or just need the perfect blend for your next job? This guide breaks down the essentials of concrete grades and their practical uses for different construction projects. For expert advice or a bespoke mix, reach out to Concrete In Cornwall today  When it comes to building a sturdy, reliable floor, concrete floors, also known as block and beam flooring, stands out as a go-to solution. This system blends strength, adaptability, and efficiency, making it a favourite for everything from cozy homes to commercial spaces. Let’s dive into what makes block and beam flooring work so well, its upsides and downsides, and how it comes together to support your next project.  When embarking on a construction project, ensuring your foundations meet UK building regulations is essential for a safe, stable, and long-lasting structure. Cold weather construction is particularly important as it ensures foundations are placed below 450mm in depth to prevent damage from frost action. Foundations are the unsung heroes of any build, and here at Concrete In Cornwall, we understand that getting the depth right is key to success. UK regulations set a baseline of 450mm below finished ground level to guard against frost, but in practice, depths can vary from 0.6m to 2.5m depending on local conditions like soil, weather, and building weight. In this article, we’ll unpack these standards and share practical tips, rooted in our experience pouring ready-mix concrete and laying foundations across Cornwall to help you build with confidence.  Pumping concrete is like catching the perfect wave—it takes skill, the right equipment, and a little bit of local knowledge to make sure it goes smoothly. In Cornwall, where you’ve got everything from coastal cliffs to narrow village lanes, pumping concrete is often the best way to get it to hard-to-reach places. Whether you’re working on a stunning coastal property, tackling steep hills, or trying to navigate tight streets in small towns, concrete pumps offer a huge advantage. As a Cornwall-based concrete company with over 25 years of experience, we’ve had to adapt to the unpredictable landscapes here. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about pumping concrete—from the process itself to the risks and rewards. And don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some local advice that’ll make sure your project goes off without a hitch.  |
AuthorWith 25 years experience in pouring concrete our blog gives tips and advice on all things concrete! Archives
May 2025
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