PAV2 / AEA Concrete
Heavy-Duty PAV2 Concrete Delivery Across North London and Hertfordshire
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Base Concrete
PAV2 / AEA Concrete London
Base Concrete has been supplying premium PAV2 concrete to commercial and industrial customers throughout London and North Hertfordshire since 2002. As a family-run business based in Hemel Hempstead, we understand that heavy-duty paving projects demand a concrete mix that can withstand intense use and harsh conditions. Our volumetric lorries produce your concrete fresh at your location, ensuring you receive the exact quantity needed and only pay for what you use.
PAV2 concrete, also referred to as C35 paving concrete, is engineered specifically for areas exposed to heavy vehicle traffic and de-icing salts. The mix contains an Air Entraining Admixture (AEA) that introduces microscopic air bubbles throughout the concrete structure. These tiny voids allow water to expand safely when it freezes, preventing the surface damage that commonly affects ordinary concrete during winter months. This makes PAV2 the ideal choice for commercial forecourts, industrial yards, and public highways where gritting and salting are routine.
For more information feel free to get in touch by filling in our from on our Contact Us page or phone us on 01442 389105 for a quote.
PAV2 Concrete
Where This Concrete Mix Works Best
Ideal Applications for PAV2 / AEA Concrete
PAV2 concrete is designed for demanding commercial and industrial environments across London and Hertfordshire where standard paving mixes would quickly deteriorate:
Commercial forecourts and petrol stations where constant vehicle movements combine with regular de-icing salt application during winter months
Distribution centres and logistics hubs requiring surfaces that can withstand continuous HGV and forklift traffic throughout the working day
Public highways and bus stations where council gritting and salt treatments are routinely applied during cold weather
Industrial yards and loading bays supporting heavy machinery, articulated lorries, and concentrated point loads
Agricultural yards and silage clamps exposed to heavy equipment, livestock, and harsh outdoor conditions year-round
Finding the Right Mix for Your Job
Concrete Grades Mixed On Site
We supply all the concrete grades listed below along with many other specialist mixes. If you need something different, just get in touch and we’ll find the right mix for your project.
Why This Mix is Right for Your Outdoor Project
Benefits of Choosing PAV1 Concrete
Selecting PAV2 concrete for your commercial or industrial project in London or Hertfordshire delivers several important performance benefits.
De-Icing Salt Resistance
The air entrainment technology in PAV2 creates a network of microscopic voids that protect against chemical attack from road salts. Unlike standard concrete that can suffer surface scaling after repeated salt exposure, PAV2 maintains its integrity through multiple winters of gritting and treatment.
Superior Load Capacity
With a characteristic strength of 40 Newtons per square millimetre, PAV2 comfortably supports the heaviest commercial vehicles. This makes it suitable for HGV loading bays, forklift traffic areas, and industrial zones where concentrated loads are common.
Extended Service Life
The combination of high strength and freeze-thaw resistance means PAV2 surfaces remain serviceable for decades rather than years. For businesses, this translates to fewer repairs, less downtime, and better long-term value from your investment.
Compliant with British Standards
PAV2 concrete meets the requirements of BS 8500 for heavy-duty external paving exposed to de-icing salts. Specifying this designated mix ensures your project complies with current UK construction standards and building regulations.
Get in touch with our team on the options below or call us on 01442 389105
Your Trusted Local Concrete Supplier
Why Choose Base Concrete?
When you select Base Concrete for your PAV2 delivery, you benefit from a supplier that genuinely understands the demands of commercial and industrial projects.
Technical Guidance Available
Unsure whether PAV2 is the right specification for your application? Our knowledgeable team will discuss your project details and recommend the most appropriate concrete grade, thickness, and reinforcement options.
Established Family Business
We have been delivering quality concrete across North London and Hertfordshire for over two decades. Our experienced drivers and operators understand how to work efficiently on commercial sites whilst maintaining professionalism throughout.
Minimal Site Disruption
We recognise that commercial operations cannot afford extended downtime. Our team works quickly and carefully, leaving your site as clean as we found it so your business can resume normal activities promptly.
Volumetric On-Site Mixing
Our modern volumetric lorries batch your PAV2 concrete fresh at your location. This eliminates concerns about concrete setting in transit and ensures you receive precisely the quantity your project requires.
What does AEA mean in concrete?
AEA stands for Air Entraining Admixture. This is a special additive mixed into the concrete that creates millions of tiny air bubbles throughout the material. These microscopic voids give the concrete flexibility to accommodate the expansion of water when it freezes, preventing cracking and surface damage during cold weather.
How is PAV2 different from PAV1?
Both PAV1 and PAV2 contain air entrainment for freeze-thaw protection, but they are specified for different applications. PAV1 is intended for domestic use such as house driveways and patios where traffic is lighter. PAV2 is a stronger formulation designed for commercial and industrial areas with heavier vehicles and where de-icing salts are regularly applied. For most business premises, PAV2 provides the performance characteristics required.
What thickness of PAV2 should I use?
PAV1 concrete reaches its full strength after 28 days of curing. However, you can usually walk on it after about 24 to 48 hours, and drive on it after about 7 days. During the curing period, it is important to keep the surface damp and avoid heavy loads.
How long before vehicles can use a PAV2 surface?
PAV2 concrete achieves its full design strength after 28 days of curing. Pedestrian traffic can usually resume after 24 to 48 hours. Light vehicles may use the surface after approximately 7 days, whilst heavy commercial vehicles should wait the full 28 days for optimal performance.
Can PAV2 be used with reinforcement?
Yes, PAV2 is specifically designed as one of the designated concrete mixes suitable for reinforced applications. Adding steel mesh or fibre reinforcement to PAV2 can further enhance its load-bearing capacity and reduce the risk of cracking in larger slabs.
How do I calculate how much PAV2 concrete I need?
You can use our online concrete calculator on the Base Concrete website to estimate your requirements. Simply enter the length, width, and depth of your project area. Alternatively, telephone our team on 01442 389105 with your measurements and we will calculate the volume for you.
Common Questions About PAV2 / AEA Concrete
Frequently Asked Questions
Customers across London and Hertfordshire often have questions about PAV2 concrete before placing their order. Here are answers to the queries we receive most frequently.
Ready Mix Concrete
Quality ready mixed concrete batched at our plant and delivered direct to your site, ready to pour.
Domestic Concrete
Perfect for driveways, patios, foundations and garden projects. Small loads welcome with flexible delivery slots
Commercial Concrete
Large-scale concrete supply for construction sites, with pump hire available and scheduled deliveries to keep your project on track.
Base Concrete
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We specialise in ready-mixed concrete for commercial and DIY customers alike, in all surrounding areas of North London.
Service Areas
Locations We Cover
We deliver to all the areas listed below and many more surrounding towns and villages. If you don’t see your location, just give us a call, and we’ll let you know if we can help.