What is Concrete
Concrete is essentially a mixture of cement, aggregates and water in a specific ratio. For aggregate, you can use either sand, crushed stone or different sizes of gravel, depending on your project type. Sometimes, additives are also included in this mixture to improve the overall performance. Once all these components are mixed together, a chemical reaction occurs, allowing concrete to harden into a solid structure.
Types of Concrete
Concrete mixes are often used for different kinds of home projects. Here are the popular types of concrete mixes. You can choose any of the following types of concrete mixes depending on your project needs:
- Fast-setting concrete- It is a special blend of cement, aggregate and additives that can harden within 20 to 40 minutes. You can use it to set garden posts or anchors.
- High-strength concrete: This concrete can bear up to 800 lbs. of weight after setting. It is generally used in regions with extreme cold weather conditions. Its high compressive strength reduces the chances of cracking on the concrete surface.
- All-purpose: As the name suggests, an all-purpose concrete can be used for a variety of projects. However, refer to your local building laws before starting any concrete construction project.
Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using concrete or cement for any kind of project.
What is Cement
Cement is a mixture of clay, limestone and other materials. It is available in the form of a fine powder and is used as a key ingredient in making concrete. Cement alone can also be used for a variety of projects, as discussed later in the article.
Concrete vs Cement
Here are some of the common differences between concrete and cement:
Concrete vs Cement: When to Choose What
Concrete is used when you require a strong and durable material for a construction project, like building foundations or pavement. It is also long-lasting and can withstand heavy loads. Here are some projects that can be completed using concrete:
- Building construction projects
- Sidewalks, curbs and gutters
- Retaining walls and barriers
- Concrete slabs and floors
- Precast concrete elements (such as blocks, beams and panels)
- Outdoor structures (such as patios and decks)
- Swimming pools and fountains
Cement is utilized for preparing binding materials, like grout for tiles or plaster for brickwork. It can also be used for repair jobs that don't require the same level of structural strength as concrete. When it comes to concrete vs cement, you can select cement for the following tasks:
- Patching cracks in concrete surfaces
- Preparing tile adhesive, grout or mortar
- Repairing and resurfacing concrete floors
- Making concrete countertops or sculptures
- Small-scale DIY projects like steppingstones or garden ornaments
Factors to Consider
Keep these points in mind when selecting between concrete vs cement:
- Strength: If your projects need to bear heavy loads or withstand external forces, choose concrete. It has a very high compressive strength and is highly durable. This is why it is best suited for large-scale projects. Cement cannot be used for any load-bearing applications. Hence, it should be used for jobs that require binding materials like mortar, concrete or grout.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Concrete generally does not require any maintenance. However, if it develops cracks, you must contact a professional to inspect the structure. Though cement can wear down faster, repairing cement-based projects is much easier.
- Cost: Concrete generally comes at a higher cost due to the additional mixing materials. Cement is often cheaper and proves to be cost-effective for small projects, DIYs and repairs. However, always prioritize the strength and durability requirements of the project when choosing between concrete vs cement.
- Customization: Once poured into the mold, the concrete will take on the exact shape of the container. This allows you to customize it into specific dimensions and designs. You can build simple blocks or columns or even more complex designs, such as decorative garden features or custom architectural elements.