Concrete vs. Cement
Although people often use the terms interchangeably, they refer to different materials.
Cement is one ingredient used to make concrete. Concrete is a mixture of cement, sand, stone (aggregate), and water. Once these materials are combined, a chemical reaction begins that allows the concrete to harden into the durable material used for foundations, driveways, sidewalks, and countless other structures.
Cement is an ingredient
Concrete is the finished product
Concrete contains sand, stone, water and cement
Most home foundations are concrete foundations
What Is Portland Cement?
Despite what many people believe, Portland Cement is not a brand name. It is the industry term for the most common type of cement used in concrete production around the world.
Different formulations exist depending on the application, but Portland Cement forms the basis of most residential concrete construction.
What Is Hydraulic Cement?
Hydraulic cement is designed to set and harden when mixed with water. It cures quickly and continues gaining strength long after installation, making it an excellent material for many foundation repairs and waterproofing applications.
Because Ottawa experiences significant moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, and seasonal weather changes, hydraulic cement is commonly used in foundation work where durability and water resistance are important.
It is frequently used during foundation crack repairs and other structural repairs where moisture resistance is essential.
What Is Parging?
Parging is a thin protective coating applied to the exposed portion of concrete foundation walls above ground.
Besides giving your home a clean, finished appearance, modern polymer-based parging helps protect the concrete from weather exposure and surface deterioration while covering small cosmetic imperfections.
Why Is Concrete Used for Foundations?
Concrete remains one of the strongest and most reliable building materials available. It offers excellent durability, requires very little maintenance, and performs well in Canada's demanding climate.
Extremely durable
Resists rot and rust
Performs well in freeze-thaw cycles
Low maintenance
Can be recycled
Long service life
When combined with proper basement waterproofing, drainage systems, and quality construction practices, a properly built concrete foundation can provide decades of dependable performance.
