Here in Jefferson County, cement and concrete are, quite literally, the building blocks of both the construction industry and home improvement enthusiasts. But did you know that while the terms cement and concrete are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing?
In this article, we'll explore the differences between cement and concrete and discuss the various uses for each.
Cement and Concrete - The Material Difference
The simplest way to describe the difference between cement and concrete is this: Cement is one of many components in concrete and helps to bind together the other materials.
But that is just a simple explanation.
How Is Cement Made?
Cement is a powdery substance made from limestone, clay, silica and other materials.
Limestone: To generate Portland cement, the most prevalent kind of cement, powdered limestone combines with powdered clay to form a substance called clinker. After adding a sulfate, the mixture is blended with water, sand and crushed stone to generate concrete.
Clay: The primary source of clay in cement is the mineral bentonite. It is commonly used in construction to make the mixture stronger and set more quickly.
Silica: The primary source of silica in cement is sand. This improves the strength of the finished product and prevents too much water absorption.
Cement also contains iron and aluminum oxides, which help to prevent the finished product from settling too quickly.
Uses for Cement
Cement has many uses, including making concrete, mortar, bricks, and other construction materials. Cement can also fill cracks in walls, repair sidewalks, and treat contaminated water sources. Cement can also mix with paint and stucco, stabilize landfills, and create grout for tiles.
Advantages of Cement
The advantages of cement are based on durability and strength. The most attractive cement attributes for many homeowners are affordability and ease of use.
How is Concrete Made?
As mentioned above, cement binds other concrete components, such as sand and gravel, together.
Cement
The primary binding agent in concrete is cement. The other components of concrete play a role in determining the overall strength and durability of the finished product.
Sand
Sand adds additional strength to the concrete and helps with water retention.
Gravel
Gravel brings additional strength and integrity to concrete mixtures.
Water
Water is used to hydrate the cement and is also used to bind the mixture together.
Each of these components provides different qualities to the finished product.
Uses of Concrete
The use of concrete is versatile because it can be poured into various molds and take almost any shape needed for a particular job. Thus, concrete is suitable for many different types of construction projects.
Some of the most common uses for concrete include sidewalks, foundations, driveways, and structures.
Advantages of Concrete
Concrete is durable and strong and can be an excellent option for areas with high foot traffic. Additionally, concrete is also very affordable and easy to use.
Related: Concrete or Pavers: Which is Right for Your Project?
How Cement and Concrete Come Together in a Variety of Mixtures
The proportion of cement in concrete typically ranges from 10% to 15% of its total weight, but this can change depending on the end purpose of the concrete.
Many types of concrete mixtures are available with varying amounts of cement, sand, and gravel.
Cement-Only Concrete
Using only cement as its binding agent, this is the strongest and least permeable type of concrete.
Cement-and-Sand concrete
This is the most commonly used concrete mix. While less strong than cement-only concrete, this mix is much less expensive.
Cement-and-Sand-and-Gravel Concrete
This type of concrete is also commonly used. The extra gravel helps to make it less expensive than cement-and-sand concrete.
Tips For Using Cement and Concrete
Concrete
Concrete is often poured into molds to create decorative items such as walkways and patios. It can also be poured directly into the ground to create a foundation for a large structure such as a patio or swimming pool.
Cement
Cement is often poured into molds to create decorative items such as walkways and patios and to stabilize soil in areas where houses and other structures are being built or repaired.
Following the manufacturer's instructions is imperative to ensure you get the desired results. Additionally, we recommend always wearing proper safety equipment to protect yourself from any dangers these materials may pose.
Arnold Ready-Mix - Jefferson County's Leader in Concrete Since 1963
Hopefully, this article expands your knowledge about cement and concrete. At Arnold Ready-Mix, we know everything there is to know about concrete and the cement that goes into each batch we mix. With our multiple plant locations throughout Jefferson County, we can deliver large and small loads of custom concrete to your home improvement or commercial construction project.
Get started with our free concrete calculator, or speak with one of our concrete experts today.