Every builder in Ghana knows that concrete is the backbone of every structure — but even small mistakes during mixing, pouring, or curing can lead to serious structural problems.
From cracking slabs to weak columns, most concrete failures aren’t due to poor design, but avoidable site mistakes.
At Jobadee Concrete, we’ve seen these errors too often — and we’ve helped countless clients correct them with our reliable, quality-controlled ready-mix concrete.
This guide explains the five most common concrete mistakes in Ghana — and how to avoid them.
1. Adding Too Much Water to the Mix
One of the biggest and most frequent mistakes on Ghanaian sites is adding excess water to make concrete easier to pour or work with.
While it seems convenient, it severely weakens the concrete’s strength.
Why It’s a Problem
- Reduces compressive strength
- Causes shrinkage and cracking
- Lowers durability and resistance to weather
💡 Jobadee Solution:
Our computerized batching systems measure the exact water-cement ratio for each grade (M20, M25, M30, etc.), ensuring maximum strength and workability without excess water.
2. Poor Mixing Ratios and Inconsistent Batching
When concrete is mixed by hand on-site, workers often use incorrect cement–sand–aggregate ratios. This leads to inconsistent quality across different batches.
Why It’s a Problem
- Uneven strength in the same structure
- Reduced bonding with reinforcement
- Higher risk of structural failure
💡 Jobadee Solution:
All Jobadee ready-mix concrete is machine-batched and lab-tested for consistency, guaranteeing uniform performance for your entire project.
3. Inadequate Curing
After concrete is poured, it must be kept moist and protected for several days to gain full strength. Many sites in Ghana neglect this crucial step — especially during hot, dry weather.
Why It’s a Problem
- Surface cracks and weak top layers
- Poor durability against heat and moisture
- Reduced long-term strength
💡 Jobadee Tip:
Always cure concrete for at least 7 days (or longer for large pours). Cover it with wet sacks, plastic sheets, or water sprinkling to prevent premature drying.
4. Using Substandard Materials
Some contractors cut costs by using cheap cement, unwashed sand, or low-grade aggregates. Unfortunately, these materials contain impurities that weaken the concrete bond.
Why It’s a Problem
- Impurities affect chemical bonding
- Increases risk of corrosion and cracks
- Leads to uneven texture and poor compaction
💡 Jobadee Solution:
We use Ghana Standards Authority–approved materials only — ensuring purity, strength, and lasting performance for every mix.
5. Delays Between Mixing and Pouring
Concrete begins to set within 30 to 90 minutes after mixing. On some sites, delays in transporting or pouring cause the mix to harden prematurely, making it difficult to place and compact.
Why It’s a Problem
- Cold joints and weak bonds
- Poor surface finish
- Reduced structural integrity
💡 Jobadee Solution:
With two batching plants (Tema Community 5 and McCarthy Hill, Mallam–Accra), our ready-mix trucks deliver concrete on time — ensuring fresh, workable batches every time.
Bonus Tip: Lack of Professional Supervision
Even the best materials can fail if the work isn’t supervised properly. Skilled supervision ensures correct placement, compaction, curing, and finishing.
💡 Jobadee Recommendation:
Always involve a qualified engineer or site foreman when working with concrete — and partner with a trusted supplier like Jobadee Concrete for professional support and guidance.
Why Choose Jobadee Concrete
✅ Computerized Batching: Accurate ratios and consistency
✅ On-Time Delivery: Across Greater Accra and beyond
✅ Quality Testing: Slump and strength tests for every batch
✅ Professional Support: Expert advice and technical coordination
✅ Trusted by Contractors: Proven record across Ghana
By choosing Jobadee Concrete, you eliminate guesswork and ensure every pour meets Ghana’s highest construction standards.
Conclusion
Avoiding simple mistakes can save you from expensive repairs and weak structures.
The best solution? Work with a trusted ready-mix supplier who guarantees quality, precision, and reliability.
At Jobadee Concrete, we don’t just deliver concrete — we deliver confidence in every cubic meter.
📍 Our Branches:
- Tema Community 5 (Same building as Jobadee Blocks Factory)
- McCarthy Hill, Mallam – Accra
📞 Phone / WhatsApp: 054 752 1845
📞 Additional Phone Numbers:
0542 611 989
0543 181 545
0247 139 669
