What's the difference between screed and concrete?

Screed is a thinner layer of cementitious material applied over concrete bases to create a smooth, level surface for floor finishes. It's typically 25-75mm thick and uses finer aggregates for a smoother finish. Concrete is a structural material used for foundations, driveways and load-bearing applications, typically much thicker (100mm+) with larger aggregates for strength. Screed is for finishing floors, concrete is for structural work. We supply both with flexible load sizes from small projects to commercial developments and ready mix options.

4:1 screed refers to the mix ratio - 4 parts sharp sand to 1 part cement. This is the standard screed mix for floor applications, providing the right balance of workability, strength and finish quality. We supply 4:1 Standard Screed ready-mixed for immediate use, as well as Fibre Screed (4:1 mix with added fibres for crack resistance) and custom mixes to your specifications. All screed is available with 24-48 hour turnaround and first load of day delivery for optimal working conditions.

How much screed do I need for my floor?

Screed quantity depends on your floor area and depth. As a guide: for 50mm depth, you need approximately 0.05m³ per square meter of floor area. For example, a 40m² floor at 50mm depth requires 2m³ of screed. We can supply flexible load sizes suitable for both small residential projects and large commercial developments. Call 01635 865679 with your floor measurements and required depth, and we'll calculate the exact quantity needed and provide a quote.

What's the difference between Lean Dry Mix and Ready Mix concrete?

Lean Dry Mix is a lower cement content concrete delivered on our own vehicles, ideal for foundations and applications where maximum strength isn't critical but workability is important. Ready Mix concrete comes through our supplier network with higher cement content, more precise mix designs, and larger delivery capacities. Ready Mix offers all listed designs including standard concrete, fibre reinforced options, and custom specifications. Lean Dry Mix is cost-effective for general use, Ready Mix is best for structural applications requiring specific strength grades.

Do you supply fibre reinforced screed and concrete?

Yes, we supply both Fibre Screed and fibre reinforced concrete. Fibre Screed contains polypropylene fibres mixed into the 4:1 standard screed, providing crack resistance and improved durability - ideal for high-traffic floors or areas prone to movement. Fibre reinforced concrete is available through our ready mix options, offering enhanced strength and reduced cracking. Fibres are particularly beneficial for industrial floors, driveways, paths and patios. Custom fibre specifications are available - contact us to discuss your requirements.

How quickly can you deliver screed or concrete?

We offer 24-48 hour availability for standard screed mixes with first load of day delivery. This means we deliver early morning when screed is freshest and working conditions are optimal. For concrete, lead times depend on mix type - our lean dry mix can be delivered quickly on own vehicles, while ready mix through supplier network typically requires 24-48 hours notice. For urgent requirements or specific delivery times, call 01635 865679 to discuss availability and scheduling for your project.

What applications are concrete and screed used for?

Screed applications include floor screeds over concrete bases, industrial floors requiring smooth finishes, and underfloor heating installations. Concrete applications cover foundations for buildings and extensions, driveways and parking areas, paths and patios, and commercial projects. We supply materials suitable for both residential DIY projects and large commercial developments throughout Thatcham, Newbury, Reading and surrounding areas with flexible load sizes depending on vehicle type and project requirements.

Concrete & Screed

Concrete & Screed Supply - All Types & Applications

Willis and Ainsworth can supply all types of concrete and screed for any application. Professional delivery with flexible load sizes and quick turnaround times.

Services Available

Screed Supply

Load Sizes: Flexible from small projects to commercial developments

Types: 4:1 Standard Screed, Fibre Screed, Custom mixes

Delivery: 24-48 hour availability, first load of day

Concrete Supply

Options: Lean Dry Mix (own vehicles), Ready Mix (supplier network)

Mixes: Standard concrete, with/without fibres, custom designs

Specifications: All listed designs, bespoke requirements

Applications

Floor Screeds

Foundations

Driveways

Industrial Floors

Paths & Patios

Commercial Projects

Service Features

Own Vehicle Fleet

Direct delivery for reliable service

Large Load Capacity

8-wheeler trucks available for major projects

Quick Turnaround

24-48 hours for standard mixes, first load of day

Custom Specifications

Any specific designed mix available - call or email

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