Clitheroe
Shap
Horwich, Bolton
Chorley
Horwich, Bolton
Clitheroe
Shap
Horwich, Bolton
Chorley
Horwich, Bolton
Concrete admixtures are specialist materials added to concrete during the mixing process to improve its performance, workability, and durability. They are used for all types of projects, from laying a small patio to constructing a large commercial foundation. Admixtures help tailor the concrete mix to suit the specific conditions of the job.
They allow contractors to overcome environmental challenges like extreme weather or tight construction timelines, and can significantly enhance the strength and lifespan of the final structure.
Three of the most commonly used types of admixtures are liquid retarders, accelerators, and air entraining agents.
Each one serves a different purpose, from slowing down the setting time to speed up the curing process, or protect concrete from harsh freeze-thaw conditions.In short, they allow greater control over how concrete behaves, making them a valuable tool in any construction project.
A concrete admixture is a material added to the concrete mix, either during batching or mixing, that changes the properties of the concrete in a specific, beneficial way. These changes can affect how the concrete sets, how easily it can be worked with, or how well it performs over time.
Admixtures are used alongside the basic concrete ingredients, cement, aggregates, and water, to give the mix enhanced qualities.
For example, in hot weather, a retarder can help slow down setting to prevent premature hardening, while in cold weather, an accelerator might be used to speed things up.
They play a crucial role in making sure concrete performs reliably under various conditions. If you're looking to improve durability, achieve a better finish, or meet strict construction timelines, using the right admixture makes all the difference.
By adjusting the properties of the mix of concrete, admixtures make it easier to work with and more reliable in the long term, especially when facing challenging site conditions or tight project timelines.
One of the main reasons contractors choose to use admixtures is to improve workability. This means the concrete is easier to mix, pour, and finish, which can save time on site and reduce labour costs. Admixtures can also be used to control setting time, which is particularly useful in hot or cold weather.
Some admixtures are designed to help the concrete resist damage from freeze-thaw cycles, water penetration, or chemical attack, making them ideal for outdoor or industrial applications.
Concrete admixtures can be tailored to suit a wide range of applications and environmental conditions. At Armstrongs, we understand that no two projects are the same, which is why we supply ready-mix concrete that works seamlessly with a variety of admixtures.
Below, we explore three of the most commonly used types: liquid retarders, accelerators, and air entraining agents and how they can improve the performance and reliability of your concrete.
Liquid retarders are a type of concrete admixture used to slow down the setting process of concrete. They work by delaying the chemical reaction between cement and water, giving the mix a longer working time.
This can be particularly beneficial on large-scale pours where concrete needs to remain workable for longer, or in hot weather where rapid setting can be a concern.
By extending the time before concrete begins to harden, retarders help prevent issues such as cold joints. These are gaps that form when one section of concrete sets before the next is poured. They also allow for more flexibility in placing and finishing the concrete, which leads to a better surface finish and fewer imperfections.
At Armstrongs, our ready-mix concrete can be customised to include retarders, giving you greater control over your project’s pace and quality.
Accelerators are the opposite of retarders. These admixtures are used to speed up the setting and early strength development of concrete.
They are especially useful in colder temperatures, where normal concrete mixes can take much longer to set. By accelerating the curing process, contractors can continue working without long delays.
Accelerators are also ideal for fast-track construction projects where time is limited. They allow for quicker removal of formwork and reduce the risk of early-age freezing in low temperatures.
Common accelerator compounds include calcium chloride, a cost-effective option, as well as non-chloride alternatives for projects where corrosion resistance is important.
When paired with Armstrongs’ consistent and high-quality ready-mix concrete, accelerators can help keep your schedule on track without compromising performance.
Air entraining agents are admixtures that introduce tiny, evenly distributed air bubbles into the concrete mix. While invisible to the naked eye, these microscopic pockets play a vital role in improving the durability of concrete exposed to freeze-thaw cycles.
In colder climates, water that enters the concrete can freeze and expand, leading to cracking and surface damage. The air bubbles act as pressure relief chambers, giving the frozen water space to expand without damaging the structure.
This type of admixture is commonly used in exterior paving, driveways, kerbs, and other surfaces that are exposed to wet and icy conditions. Air entrainment not only helps reduce surface scaling and cracking, but also improves overall workability.
If you're laying concrete in a cold-weather environment or want to improve the lifespan of your outdoor surfaces, air entraining agents are an essential part of the mix. Armstrongs’ concrete can be formulated with this in mind to help your project withstand even the toughest weather conditions.
At Armstrongs, we’re committed to supplying high-quality ready-mix concrete that delivers on strength, durability, and consistency. Our concrete is produced using premium materials sourced from our own five quarries across the North West, which gives us full control over the quality of the aggregates used in every batch.
By combining expert advice with reliable delivery, we make it easier for contractors and developers to access concrete that’s tailored to their job, right when they need it.
Admixtures can make a significant difference to the performance of concrete, but they must be used correctly to deliver the desired results.
One of the most important factors is timing. Admixtures should be added at the correct stage of mixing to ensure they are fully dispersed and interact effectively with the other components of the mix.
Equally important is dosage. Using too much or too little of a particular admixture can lead to performance issues, such as delayed setting, poor finish, or reduced strength.
That’s why it’s essential to follow manufacturer guidelines and adjust quantities based on temperature, humidity, and the specific needs of the job.
Another key consideration is compatibility. Not all admixtures work well together, and combining the wrong types can cause unexpected chemical reactions that compromise the mix. If you’re unsure, the safest approach is to consult a concrete specialist who can recommend the right admixture, or combination of admixtures, for your application.
At Armstrongs, we’re here to support you with expert advice and tailored mix designs. We’ll help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure that your concrete performs to the highest standards, no matter the conditions on site.
Concrete admixtures have become an essential part of modern construction, offering greater control and versatility in how concrete performs.
Whether you're adjusting setting time, improving workability, or increasing durability, the right admixture can make a significant difference to the success of a project.
Liquid retarders, accelerators, and air entraining agents each play a unique role in helping concrete adapt to environmental conditions and construction needs. When used correctly, they support stronger, longer-lasting structures and more efficient building processes.
If you're planning a project and want to ensure your concrete meets the highest standards, Armstrongs is here to help.
We supply high-quality ready-mix concrete across the North West and can advise on the most effective admixtures for your application. Our expert team will work with you to create a custom mix that gets the job done right.
Get in touch with Armstrongs today to learn more or to place an order tailored to your needs.
The most common types include retarders (to slow setting time), accelerators (to speed it up), air entraining agents (for freeze-thaw protection), plasticisers (to improve flow), and water reducers (to enhance strength).
Yes, when used correctly and in the right dosage, admixtures are safe and widely used in both residential and commercial structural applications.
It depends on your project requirements, such as setting time, weather conditions, or durability needs. It’s best to consult with your concrete supplier or a qualified expert to ensure the right choice.
Yes, multiple admixtures can be used together, but compatibility is crucial. Always seek expert advice to avoid unwanted interactions between products.
A plasticiser improves the workability of concrete without needing extra water, making it easier to pour and finish. A retarder, on the other hand, slows down the setting time, which is useful in hot weather or on large pours.
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