Question 1

1. What is cement?

Accepted Answer

Cement is a fine powder that acts as a binding agent in construction materials. When mixed with water it forms a paste that hardens and bonds other materials together. It’s most often used with aggregates such as sand or gravel to produce mortar or concrete.

Question 2

2. Concrete vs cement – what’s the difference?

Accepted Answer

Cement and concrete are different materials. Cement is the powdered binder used in mixes, while concrete is the finished building material that’s made by combining cement with aggregates and water.

Question 3

3. How should I store cement?

Accepted Answer

Cement bags should be stored in dry conditions. Moisture in the air can start the hydration process before mixing, making the cement powder harden and become unusable.

Good site practice includes:

Keeping bags off the ground on pallets
Covering with waterproof sheeting if stored outside
Using older bags first to avoid reduced performance
If cement absorbs moisture and forms hard lumps, it shouldn't be used in structural mixes.

Question 4

4. How long does cement take to dry?

Accepted Answer

Cement typically takes 24 to 48 hours to set enough for light foot traffic, but full curing can take 28 days. Drying time depends on factors like temperature, humidity, and the cement mix used. Specialist options may have different curing times, so it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s instructions.

Question 5

5. Can cement be coloured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cement dye or powdered pigments can be added to mixes to produce coloured mortar, render, or decorative concrete.

This is often used for paving, pointing, and architectural finishes where colour consistency is part of the job specs.

Cement

Hanson Multicem Cement 25kg Plastic Bag

Blue Circle Postcrete Cement 20kg Bag

Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg Paper Bag

Hanson Quickcem Cement 25kg Plastic Bag

Blue Circle Extra Rapid Fast Set Cement 25kg Plastic Bag

Cementone Rapid Set Cement 5kg

Hanson General Purpose Cement 25kg Paper Bag

Jetcem Rapid Set Cement 3kg

Jetcem Waterproofing Rapid Setting Cement 3kg

Blue Circle Snowcrete White Cement 25kg Bag

Rugby Premium Cement 25kg Plastic Bag

Hanson Sand Cement Mortar 20kg Plastic Bag

Rugby Premium Cement 25kg Paper Bag

Blue Circle Extra Rapid Cement 5kg Tub

Blue Circle Mastercrete 12.5kg Plastic Bag

Rugby Fast Set Cement 25kg Paper Bag

Mannok Premium Grade Cement 25kg Paper Bag

Bostik Cementone Fire Cement 2kg

Hanson Low Carbon Sulfate Resisting Cement 25kg Bag

Rugby Sulphate Cement 25kg Bag

Dragon Alfa Portland Cement 25kg Bag

Rugby White Cement 25kg Paper Bag

Heidelberg Materials General Purpose Cement 25kg Paper Bag

Breedon Professional Grade Cement 25kg Bag

Holcim General Purpose Cement 25kg Paper Bag