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Frequently Asked QuestionsThere are 15 FAQ's available
1. What mix do I need?That depends on what sort of job you're doing. Different mix specifications are used for different purposes with higher-grade (strength) mixes being used for flooring and external paving rather than for foundations. If you are unsure of your requirements, please contact us directly where we will be happy to advise you on the best option for your needs. 2. Are you operating outside Perth yet ?Yes, we are now operating in Brisbane, Sydney and Perth. Sunshine Coast & Ipswich commenced late 2007. The Queensland operation commenced in September 2005, NSW in March2006, with franchise opportunities now being extended to the East Coast. Our unique services will be made available through a series of franchise operators specifically trained in the safe and effective delivery of small volumes of concrete. Expansion to the East Coast will be via the capital cities. 3. How much concrete will I need?Concrete quantities, like any other measure of volume, are calculated by multiplying length x width x depth (or height) and are measured in cubic metres (m3). For example: If a room measures 3m x 4m and the depth of the concrete floor is to be 100mm, the calculation is 3 x 4 x 0.1 = 1.2m3. Make sure that you work out your sum in the same units (don't mix metres and millimetres or yards and feet), and bear in mind that it's generally easier to work with the metric system. 4. How much does a cubic metre of concrete weigh?One cubic metre of concrete weighs around 2.4 tonnes. That equates to about 15 wheelbarrow loads per cubic metre! 5. What preparation do I need to do?For concrete bases, floors and drives, the area should be dug out to twice the required depth of concrete (a minimum of 100mm or 4 inches is advisable, so you should dig the area out to 200mm or 8 inches depth), and the soil should be compacted. In clay based soil areas a sub-base layer of hardcore 100mm deep should then be placed and compacted to give the concrete a solid base and prevent sinking. A thin layer of sand on top of the hardcore will provide a smooth surface to work from and make calculation of the quantity required easier as it will help to prevent variations in the depth. 6. What tools will I need?Most people will already have the tools required to handle and place concrete, but check the list below to make sure that you are fully prepared. Wheelbarrow - Essential to transport the concrete around your job; Shovel and Rake - For moving the concrete; Spirit level - To ensure accuracy; Tape measure - For calculation of quantity required; Timber - To make pegs, formwork, and tamping beam; String and pegs - For setting out the area to be concreted; Trowel or float - For surface finishing; Brush - For cleaning up afterwards. Please be aware that concrete is both abrasive and alkaline, so protective clothing, gloves, boots, overalls etc. should always be worn. Cement can burn skin. 7. Will the truck-mixer be able to get to the job?The dimensions of a truck-mixer are as follows:
Please ensure that you can provide safe and reasonable access for the truck-mixer, as we cannot be held responsible for damage caused to footpaths, existing driveways etc. You may be asked to sign an indemnity form at the time of delivery.
8. What areas does Concrete Taxi deliver to?Concrete Taxi currently operates in Perth, Sydney and Brisbane - including the Sunshine Coast and Ipswich. Concrete Taxi plans to offer concrete delivered in 0.1 cubic meter increments on a 24/7 availability throughout Australia via a Franchise network. Franchise enquiries are welcome and should be directed via the section set aside. Regional services are also being considered, however the focus is on Capital cities. 9. How do I contact Concrete Taxi?We can be contacted directly by e-mail, telephone, fax or in writing. For full contact details, please see our contacts page. The 1800 number is attended 6.00am to 8.00pm (WST) seven days a week. 10. What should I expect when my concrete is delivered?When the truck-mixer arrives, the driver will assess the required delivery location, and discuss with you the best method of discharging the concrete. Given the small amounts of concrete involved, the normal method of discharge is into wheelbarrows (we carry two on board). The mixing process sees the Concrete Taxi produce two wheelbarow loads of concrete every six minutes, allowing ample time for you to wheel and lay through the mixing cycle. The standard production rate is for .7cu.m/hour, if on site delays are incurred an additional charge may be applied. 11. How much notice do I need to give?Generally 24 hours notice is required, night and weekend orders usually need sorting at the earliest due to scheduling issues. Orders can be confirmed by telephone contact with the office, a specific delivery time will be advised. The truck operators will contact you on the day if they are running early or late to allow for on site co-ordination. The opportunity may arise to schedule jobs "on the spot", give the office a call for the best advice. 12. How much does it cost ?A pricing structure is available for 24/7 delivery for any job between .1 and 1.6 cu.m - you only pay for what you use. Delivery zones and hours of delivery will affect the final cost. The "pay for what you use" epithet is balanced by the need for on site productivity. The charges for waiting time or out of hours deliveries are clearly spelt out in our pricing structure, which can be e-mailed or faxed. 13. How can I pay?Payment can be made by card ( Visa or Mastercard), eftpos or cash on the day of delivery. The mix on site format and the pay for what you use system makes it easier for on site payment. Credit card details can be given to the Office for processing. The operators have a mobile eftpos machine, allowing for greater flexibility in payment. Trade accounts can be set up subject to prior completion of a Credit Application and good trade references. 14. How long do I get before the concrete sets?The chemical reaction that takes place within a concrete mix begins as soon as the cement and water are mixed together. The onsite mixing process allows for variation in the mix consistency to allow for aprticular site conditions. This means that usually, you will have between 2-3 hours once the concrete arrives on your job to place, level, compact and finish the mix. The normal rate of production for a Concrete Taxi is for .7 cu.m/hour (10 wheelbarrows). The driver will discuss the level of workability you require as this can be varied on site. The addition of a rapid set agent is possible at an additional cost. 15. Can I get coloured concrete?The addition of oxides to normal concrete is common practise for any concrete delivery, but usually at the laying stage. The colouring of concrete has to be done by arrangement as normally the colour is added at the screeding stage,ie,not in the mixer. The selection of colour is at the discretion of the customer, given the batching nature of the mix cycle there is no guarantee of colour consistency from Concrete Taxi.
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