Question 1

What concrete mix do you use?

Accepted Answer

We use C30 or C35 concrete for all our poured bases. These are high-strength, frost-resistant mixes that far exceed the minimum requirements for garden structures. C30 is perfect for most garden applications including sheds, garden rooms, and greenhouses. C35 is the stronger option, recommended for vehicle-bearing garages and areas subject to heavy point loads. Both provide excellent durability and a lifespan measured in decades.

Question 2

How long does concrete need to cure?

Accepted Answer

Concrete sets hard within 24 hours of pouring. For light structures such as standard garden sheds, you can typically place the building after 2-3 days. For heavier structures like garden rooms, workshops, or garages, we recommend waiting 3-7 days for the concrete to reach its full working strength. We'll advise you on the exact timing based on your specific structure, the concrete mix used, and current weather conditions.

Question 3

Do I need steel reinforcement?

Accepted Answer

Steel reinforcement (mesh or rebar) is recommended for garages, hot tub bases, heavy workshops, and any base that will support significant point loads or vehicle traffic. For standard garden sheds and smaller structures, a well-prepared sub-base with C30 concrete is usually more than sufficient. We'll assess your specific requirements during the quoting process and recommend reinforcement where it will genuinely benefit the installation.

Question 4

What is DPM and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

DPM stands for Damp Proof Membrane — a heavy-duty plastic sheet laid beneath or within the concrete slab to prevent moisture rising through the base. It is essential for habitable rooms such as garden offices, home gyms, and garden rooms where you need a dry, comfortable environment. For standard garden sheds used for storage, DPM is optional but can be added if you want extra protection against damp.

Question 5

How deep do you dig for a concrete base?

Accepted Answer

We excavate down to stable, undisturbed ground, then lay a compacted MOT Type 1 sub-base before pouring the concrete slab on top. The exact depth varies by soil type and site conditions — clay soils typically require deeper excavation than sandy or gravel soils. On average, the total depth including sub-base and concrete slab is around 150-200mm, but we adjust this based on what we find on site to ensure a solid, long-lasting foundation.

Question 6

Can you pour concrete on sloping ground?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we regularly pour concrete bases on sloping sites. We use formwork (timber shuttering) to create a contained, perfectly level area, then pour the concrete within this framework. On steeper slopes, the base may be thicker at the lower end to maintain a level surface. This is one of the advantages of poured concrete — it can be formed to any shape and levelled precisely regardless of the existing ground profile.

Question 7

How do you ensure the base is perfectly level?

Accepted Answer

We use professional laser levelling equipment throughout the installation process. From setting out the formwork to screeding the finished concrete surface, laser levels ensure accuracy to within ±3mm across the entire base. This precision is critical — an unlevel base causes doors to jam, panels to warp, and can void your structure's warranty. Our ±3mm tolerance meets or exceeds manufacturer requirements.

Question 8

What size concrete base can you install?

Accepted Answer

We install concrete bases from small 6x4 feet pads up to large 20x10+ feet slabs, and everything in between. We also build bespoke sizes to match custom structures — just provide the manufacturer's recommended base dimensions. For very large bases such as double garages or park home foundations, we can pour in sections or arrange a concrete pump for efficient delivery.

Question 9

Is waste removal included?

Accepted Answer

Yes, waste removal is always included in your fixed-price quote. We remove all excavated soil, old concrete, rubble, and any other waste from your site. We are fully licensed waste carriers and aim to recycle over 90% of all excavated material at licensed recycling centres. You won't have piles of soil or rubble left in your garden — we leave the site clean and ready for your new structure.

Question 10

What's the difference between C30 and C35 concrete?

Accepted Answer

The numbers refer to the compressive strength of the concrete in megapascals (MPa) after 28 days of curing. C35 is approximately 17% stronger than C30. In practical terms, C30 is more than adequate for most garden applications including sheds, garden rooms, greenhouses, and hot tubs. C35 is the recommended choice for vehicle-bearing surfaces such as garage floors, or where exceptionally heavy point loads are expected. We'll recommend the appropriate mix for your specific application.

Size	Concrete Base Price
8' x 6'	£595
10' x 6'	£695
10' x 8'	£845
12' x 8'	£945
12' x 10'	£1,095
14' x 10'	£1,195
16' x 10'	£1,295
18' x 10'	£1,445
20' x 10'	£1,545

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