Concrete vs Cement: Information for Homeowners
Hello Ottawa! As Our Company prepares to open for the 2020 season, we receive a lot of calls about issues homeowners are currently having with their basements. We have noted there is an amount of confusion concerning terminology when discussing the pouring of concrete so we decided to compile a basic list of terms below so you have a better understanding of what concrete is as well as why it is used. Just FoundationsJust Foundations is a company that operates with integrity and we want all homeowners to be as comfortable as possible before the work begins.
Terminology:
Concrete vs Cement: These two words are often used interchangeably as though they are the same thing which in incorrect. Cement is actually one part of a compounded mixture that becomes concrete. Concrete is a mixture of sand, stone, water AND cement, and the cement generally makes up about 15% of a batch of concrete. So for example if one was speaking about their basement; it would be referred to as their concrete basement not their cement basement.
Portland Cement: Many believe this is a specific brand name for cement, but it’s not. It is simply the generic name for the type of cement that is widely chosen to make concrete.
Hydraulic Cement: This is the type of cement Just Foundations prefers to use. It is a type of finely ground cement that is able to set quickly when water is added. When mixed together a process called hydration occurs meaning a stone like form is created. This hardening process will continue for years to come after the work is done, and that means your foundation will continue to strengthen over time. This type of cement is good for climates like Ottawa as our basements are regularly in contact with water and hydraulic cement is water resistant.
Parging: PargingParging is a coating applied to concrete foundations in the above ground part of your home’s foundation walls. Our Company utilizes a polymer based parging compound that further enhances your foundation’s durability and life longevity; it will also hide visible surface imperfections and provide a smoother, more finished look.
Why Choose Concrete?
Environmentally Friendly: Concrete is a substance that is recyclable, carries a low carbon footprint and does not give off gases or toxic fumes.
Versatility: Many think of concrete as only grey and flat but that is not the case. Concrete mixes can be developed to suit various patterns, colors and shapes depending on what you are looking to do. For example, if you look at different pools you will note the deck surroundings are designed to every owner’s preference – it’s concrete!
Cost Efficient: There is a savings in utilizing concrete as it requires little to no maintenance. It is also noise insulating so you don’t have to don’t have to spend extra in terms of sound proofing your basement.
Durability: Concrete is an extremely solid material and will not melt, rot or rust through; it is also perfect for our climate here in Ottawa as it can withstand inclement weather/ harsh winters.
Just FoundationsJust Foundations strives to provide quality work and we like our customers to understand exactly what we are doing. If you have further questions give us a call and we’d be pleased to expand further on the usages of concrete as well as any other service or materials that we provide and use! Contact Us Today! service@justfoundations.ca