Due to the terms concrete and cement often being used interchangeably (similar to asphalt and blacktop), a common misconception is that they are in fact synonymous. But are concrete and cement really the same thing? What is the function of each when it comes to paving? In this article, we'll dive into the true definition of both of these terms and how they relate to each other.
Concrete vs Cement: Are Concrete and Cement The Same Thing?
While concrete and cement do relate very closely, they are in fact NOT the same thing - cement is actually just one of the crucial ingredients of concrete. Concrete refers to the actual mixture that can be poured and cured to result in common infrastructure such as sidewalks or building foundations. For this reason, phrases like cement sidewalks and cement mixers are technically not correct - the proper terms would be concrete sidewalks and concrete mixers.
What is Cement?
Cement is a binding agent that's been used as a building and construction material by humans for thousands of years. The common term "cement" almost always refers these days to Portland Cement. This is not a brand name but is in fact just a common name for the type of cement used in the vast majority of modern concrete mixes. When mixed with aggregates like sand and gravel, the cement works to bind those materials together results in the hard pavement and structures we're all familiar with.
What Is The Difference Between Concrete and Cement?
As we've just said, cement is simply an ingredient of concrete - on average, cement makes up about 10-15% of a concrete mixture. Concrete, on the other hand, is a mixture that typically includes the cement plus aggregate materials such as sand and crushed stone, plus water. When the cement and aggregates are combined with water, the cement and water undergo a chemical reaction called hydration which causes the cement to act like a paste which binds the aggregate material together, eventually hardening into a strong, solid mass similar to rock. Concrete actually doesn't technically "dry", but rather cures over time. The process of concrete curing can take years, and the concrete actually gets stronger as it continues to cure which means that concrete grows stronger as it ages.
While cement can be used on its own in certain scenarios such as minor concrete repairs, its main use is as the binding agent or "paste" in a concrete mixture. Concrete is far stronger than plain old cement and that's why concrete has been and continues to be used for a wide variety of heavy-load applications including providing structural foundation for some of the world's largest buildings.
Importance of the Concrete Mix
As you now know, the mixture of cement with water creates a paste that works to bind together sand and aggregate material. The mixture, when fresh, is malleable and can be used in an almost limitless variety of molds, forms and shapes which is part of the reason concrete is so widespread. But in order for the resulting structure or pavement to meet the strength needs of its application, the actual ratios in the mix of the water, cement and aggregate makes a big difference. For this reason, anytime you're working on a concrete paving project, whether it's a driveway or the foundation of a large building, it's crucial to consider the strength requirements of your application and properly tailor your concrete mix to meet the needs.
Conclusion
You should now know that these terms aren't quite as interchangeable as you may have thought - cement is in fact just one of the main ingredients of concrete. If you're in the planning stages of a paving project, it can never hurt to call in the pros to make sure you get your concrete work done the right way the first time. Have further questions about concrete and cement, or ready to bring in the paving experts for your job? Give High Quality Asphalt & Concrete a call today.