GUIDES
Concrete Mix Design Guides
Practical guides to strength classes, exposure classes and mix specification, grounded in BS 8500 and EN 206. Each guide links through to the calculator so you can apply what you read.
All guides
Strength Classes ExplainedWhat C25/30, C32/40 and similar mean under EN 206Designated vs Designed ConcreteThe two ways concrete is specified under BS 8500, and when each appliesExposure Classes & DurabilityHow BS 8500 exposure classes can set stricter limits than strength aloneThe EN 206 MethodStep-by-step walkthrough of the calculationMaterial Cost CalculatorCost of concrete per m³ from your rates
Frequently asked questions
Are these guides a substitute for the standard?
No. These guides explain the concepts in plain language, but the current applicable BS 8500 and EN 206 editions — and your project specification — are always the reference for a real project.
Do I need to be an engineer to use them?
No. They are written to be useful to practising engineers as well as site staff and students who need a clear explanation of a term or a step.