Home » Construction » Using the right cement for your home
You spend considerable time, effort, and money on the aesthetics and architecture of your home, but do we really focus on the most important aspects? The structure is what the whole house is built around and needs to be of the highest quality, so that your home withstands the test of time.
Cement is used in multiple ways in your home’s structure. From the concrete in the foundation to the mortar between bricks, cement plays an integral role in home construction. So, you should ensure that your contractor uses the best material from the best companies like Pioneer Cement. It’s not simply buying the best cement that makes your home strong, you also need to ensure that it is used in the right way.
Ordinary cement vs sulphate-resistant cement
Most companies offer a wide range of cement types. The two general categories used most often are ordinary Portland cement and sulphate-resistant Portland cement. In most cases, ordinary cement works best, especially in dry, non-saline climates. It is used throughout the structure in various mixtures and consistencies.
However, if you live in a coastal area or somewhere with saline soil, then sulphate-resistant cement should be used, particularly in the foundation. This will prevent the steel in the structure from corroding as well. In addition, sulphate-resistant cement also has high resistance to shrinkage in alternating wet and dry conditions. However, it should not be used for marine construction.
Getting the right mix for mortar and concrete
Cement is used with a mixture of other materials like sand, water, and gravel to get the right consistency and material for the various requirements of home construction. Mortar is made by mixing cement, water, and sand to the needed consistency. Ensure that your contractor uses mortar that is not too watery, but not too sandy either, so that the structure stands sturdy and smooth.
When it comes to concrete, use top-notch cement by companies such as Pioneer Cement, mixed with gravel, sand, and water. Mixing these together in the right proportions and method will result in strong concrete that will harden properly.
Cure any kind of cement properly
Curing cement, or rather concrete, refers to keeping it at the appropriate temperature and moisture levels once it has been poured and set. This is why it is preferable to build homes in warm, sunny weather, so that the temperature is maintained to optimal levels and drying takes place efficiently.
To keep the moisture levels constant, water is used to over and over on the structure to cure the concrete. It usually sets within 24-48 hours, but curing requires at least 7 days, for a structure that’s as much as 50 % stronger than one with uncured cement.
So, get the perfect cement for your perfect home from companies like Pioneer Cement and you’ll have a structure that will stay intact and strong for ages to come! If you have any feedback or questions, tell us in the comments section below! You can also start a discussion on Zameen Forum.