Help and advice
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, factual answers to the questions we are asked most often about UKCP products, screeds, mortar admixtures, concrete repair, samples, datasheets and bespoke formulation.
Products and applications
What products does UK Construction Products make?
UKCP formulates, manufactures and distributes admixtures for readymix and precast concrete (wet-cast and semi-dry), release agents and powdered additives. Our listed products include screed admixtures (LSA Max and PSA), mortar admixtures (Liquid AEA, Powder AEA and Powder Water Retainer) and concrete repair compounds (FASTSET 1 and FASTSET 30). We also develop bespoke additive packages for manufacturers.
Which UKCP products are liquids and which are powders?
Our listed liquid products are LSA Max and Liquid AEA. Our listed powder products are PSA, FASTSET 1, FASTSET 30, Powder AEA and Powder Water Retainer. Concrete admixtures and release agents are liquids, and we supply numerous powdered additives, so ask our team about anything not listed.
Who are UKCP products designed for?
Our products are designed for readymix concrete producers, wet-cast and semi-dry precast manufacturers, bagged concrete and dry mortar manufacturers, and contractors on site. Our bespoke formulation service is aimed at manufacturers who produce their own concrete, mortars or screeds.
Screeds
Which UKCP admixture should I use in a semi-dry screed?
LSA Max is a liquid admixture for semi-dry screeds. PSA is a powder alternative for traditional site mixed sand and cement screeds (1:3 to 1:5), supplied in water soluble sachets. Our team can help you choose based on your programme and floor finish.
Can UKCP screed admixtures be used over underfloor heating?
Yes. LSA Max and PSA are both suitable for screeds over underfloor heating. Ask our technical team about curing before the heating is commissioned, and always follow the heating manufacturer's commissioning procedure.
When can floor coverings be laid on a screed?
Drying time depends on the screed thickness, the mix and the drying conditions, so always check the moisture content of the screed before laying floor coverings, in line with BS 8203. Rapid drying admixtures such as LSA Max and PSA shorten the wait compared with an unmodified screed.
Mortar admixtures
What is an air entraining agent?
An air entraining agent is an admixture that introduces small, stable and evenly distributed air bubbles into mortar or concrete. The bubbles improve workability and help the hardened material resist damage from freezing and thawing. UKCP supplies Liquid AEA and Powder AEA.
What does a water retainer do in a dry mix mortar?
A water retainer helps a mortar hold on to its mixing water for longer, reducing water loss into absorbent substrates and the air. This supports cement hydration, workability and bond. UKCP supplies Powder Water Retainer for dry mix mortar production.
Should I choose a liquid or a powder admixture?
Powder admixtures suit dry bagged and silo mortars because they can be pre-blended with the other dry ingredients. Liquid admixtures are usually added with the mixing water. If you are unsure which suits your process, our technical team can advise.
Concrete repair
What is FASTSET used for?
FASTSET 1 and FASTSET 30 are polymer modified, cementitious repair compounds for cosmetic concrete repair. They contain special cements for rapid set and very high early strengths, and powder polymers for strong adhesion to the substrate and improved surface hardness.
How quickly does FASTSET set?
FASTSET 1 sets within 5 to 10 minutes and FASTSET 30 sets within 30 minutes, depending on temperature. Setting is faster in warm conditions and slower in cold conditions.
Should I use FASTSET 1 or FASTSET 30?
Choose FASTSET 1 when the fastest possible set matters, and FASTSET 30 when you need more time to place and finish the repair. If you are unsure, contact our technical team with details of the repair.
Samples and ordering
Can I request a product sample?
Yes. Use the Request a Sample form on our website to tell us which product you are interested in and how you plan to use it, and our team will be in touch.
How much do UKCP products cost?
Prices depend on the product, pack size and quantity. Contact our team with details of what you need and we will provide a quotation.
What pack sizes are available?
Pack sizes vary by product. For example, LSA Max is supplied in 20 litre and 200 litre drums and 1000 litre IBCs, while PSA comes in 200g water soluble sachets, in boxes of 80. Bespoke blends are supplied in paper sacks or bulk bags.
Is there a minimum order quantity or lead time?
Minimum quantities and lead times depend on the product and the size of your order. Please contact our team and we will confirm the details for your enquiry.
Datasheets and technical support
Where can I download technical datasheets?
Technical datasheets can be downloaded free of charge from the datasheets page of our website. If you cannot find the document you need, contact the team and we will help.
How do I get a Safety Data Sheet?
Safety Data Sheets are available on request. Email or call the team with the product name and we will send you the current version.
How do I contact UKCP technical support?
Call us on 07717 707163, email sales@ukconstructionproducts.co.uk or send an enquiry through our contact form with "Technical support" as the topic. Have the product name, batch number and details of your project to hand.
Bespoke formulation
What is a black box additive?
A black box additive is a single, pre-blended additive package that UKCP develops for one customer's product, in powder or liquid form. It replaces several separate additives from different suppliers with one blend that is added alongside the sand, cement and fillers already used on site.
Can UKCP develop an additive using our own raw materials?
Yes. Our in-house development team uses the raw materials from your own production site to develop the additive and admixture package, so the formulation is designed around the materials you actually use.
Which additives can be included in a bespoke blend?
UKCP can offer a wide range of additives, including powder air entrainers, rapid set accelerators, retarders and water repellents, and any blend to suit your needs. Blends are supplied in paper sacks or bulk bags.
Still have a question?
If you cannot find the answer you need, our team is happy to help. Call or email us, or send your question through our contact form.
- Call us 07717 707163
- Email us sales@ukconstructionproducts.co.uk
- Head office Unit 2, Lions Drive, Shadsworth Ind Est, Blackburn BB1 2QS