Concrete prices have come under increased pressure since the turn of the year, with many quarries seeing an increase on 2017 quotes. According to Department of Agriculture specifications, a class strength of 45N, otherwise known as Mix A, is required for walled silos, silo slabs, silage aprons, silo channels and purpose-built silage effluent tanks.

Prices of Mix A for larger projects are varying between €77.50 and €83 per cubic metre.

Where a one-off load of eight cubic metres or less is being sought, prices of between €87 and €97 per cubic metre have been quoted.

Concrete to be used for all other purposes, including slurry tanks, requires concrete of a class strength 37N, which is otherwise known as Mix B. Prices for larger projects requiring over 100 cubic metres are being quoted between €73 and €78 per cubic metre.

Again, smaller loads of eight cubic metres or less are being quoted between €81 and €95 per cubic metre.

The increase in the prices are due to the rising costs of bitumen, cement and oil, according to one prominent quarry.

The variation highlights the savings that can be made by pricing around. However, farmers must still be wary to ensure that they are getting the same strength of concrete.

TAMS II

The closing date for the current tranche of TAMS II is 23 February. The 10th tranche of the scheme will open the following day, with tranches generally running for three months.