Concrete Set Times & How On-Site Mixing Improves Control

One of the most important (and often underestimated) variables in any concrete project is set time, which is how long it takes for concrete to begin hardening after it’s mixed. Fortunately, on-site mixing with kreitmaker uses volumetric concrete trucks to give you far more control over that timing than traditional drum truck delivery methods do.

What is Concrete Set Time?

Concrete set time refers to the amount of time it takes for the freshly mixed material to begin to harden. This generally happens in two stages:

• Initial Set Time: The point when the concrete starts to stiffen and can no longer be worked with.
• Final Set Time: When the concrete has hardened enough to bear weight without deforming.

Depending on the mix design, weather, and additives used, the initial set time can range from 45 minutes to a few hours. Final set times start at 48 hours for light foot traffic. However, once mixing begins, the clock is ticking. This is where on-site mixing changes the game.

Traditional Drum Truck Mixing vs. On-Site Mixing

When you order concrete using a traditional drum truck, it's batched at a central plant and transported to your site. From the moment it leaves the plant, the curing process begins. This means the quality of your mix is at the mercy of potential setbacks, such as traffic delays and weather, and may begin to set before it even gets to you.

On-site mixing with volumetric concrete trucks solves this problem by keeping raw materials separate until you're ready to go ahead. The concrete is mixed fresh, right on your jobsite.

At kreitmaker, our volumetric concrete trucks operate out of three locations (Scarborough, Downtown Toronto, and Stouffville), offering same-day delivery, six days a week. That means better timing, less waste, and more peace of mind.

Why Set Time Control Matters

Now, let’s talk about the benefits of set time control through on-site mixing, from cost savings to jobsite safety.

Better Workability & Consistency

Freshly mixed concrete is simply easier to work with. When you mix on-site, you're not rushing to beat the clock with a truckload that’s already begun to set. You can also control the slump and adjust the mix design on the fly to suit the needs of your project.

If you need a stiffer mix for one section and a wetter mix for another, on-site mixing can give you that flexibility in one truck. That’s nearly impossible to do with traditional drum truck concrete, where you’re locked into one batch.

Reduced Waste = Reduced Cost

One of the standout benefits of using volumetric concrete trucks is that you only pay for what you use. There’s no need to over-order “just in case,” which often results in leftover concrete that’s hardening before your eyes and needs to be disposed of.

This pay-per-use model significantly cuts down on material waste and waste disposal fees. For small pours or variable site conditions, this kind of control leads to real cost savings.

No Stress Over Delivery Delays

Toronto traffic is known for being terrible. With traditional drum truck concrete delivery, delays on the road mean you're getting concrete that’s already starting to set. On a hot day, that could mean a wasted load altogether and then waiting for a replacement.

With kreitmaker's on-site volumetric concrete delivery, your mix is created fresh on arrival, with precise control over the mix and timing. As an added bonus, because we can get to you from any of our three locations in Toronto, Scarborough and Stouffville, your order will get to your jobsite quickly and efficiently. No panic, no delays, no wasted loads.

Concrete Set Time Tips for Contractors

Even with on-site mixing, understanding your material is key. Here are some quick tips:

• Plan your pour sequence so you're not scrambling halfway through.
• Consider admixtures like accelerators, depending on temperature and project timing.
• Communicate with your supplier about your timeline and any potential changes. Our team at kreitmaker offers expert, personalized support to help you stay ahead of surprises. For more than 20 years, we've been answering questions about concrete.
• Use the app to order and track deliveries for easier coordination and last-minute adjustments.

Serving the GTA & Beyond

kreitmaker's volumetric concrete service is designed to help customers from Toronto to Barrie, and Burlington to Oshawa with projects of all sizes. With three locations and a reliable fleet, we make on-site concrete delivery fast, accurate, and flexible.

Our volumetric trucks aren’t just concrete trucks; they’re mobile batching plants, bringing you fresh concrete when and where you need it. With our customer-first approach, you get the kind of service that helps projects run smoother from start to finish.

Control is Power

Concrete set time doesn’t need to be a source of stress or compromise. With on-site mixing from kreitmaker, you can take control of your schedule, your mix design, and your budget. Whether you're pouring a footing, or laying a slab, the ability to fine-tune your concrete on the jobsite improves your quality, efficiency, and safety.

Looking for reliable concrete delivery in Toronto or the surrounding area? Reach out to kreitmaker today to learn more about our volumetric concrete solutions and experience the difference of working with a supplier who puts your needs first.