PSA: Found out my local concrete supplier adds more water than I thought

Was going over some old invoices from Baker Materials here in Phoenix and noticed the slump on their mix sheets was way off from what I order. Called them up and the dispatcher straight up said they add extra water to keep the trucks from clogging on long hauls. So for the last 2 years I've been pouring weaker slabs than I bid for. Anyone else catch their supplier doing this?

2 comments

2 Comments

troy_owens1mo ago

Start looking closer at everything you pay for. Baker's not the only one cutting corners. Restaurants water down drinks, mechanics upsell parts you don't need, and concrete places mess with slump. It's everywhere once you start checking.

skyler_white1mo ago

Have you tried just being more vocal about what you expect upfront? For me, I started asking bakers exactly what's in their dough and how long they mix it, and they almost always seem surprised I even care. It's a little awkward at first but most places actually respect you more when you pay attention and ask questions.