What is the Difference Between Concrete and Cement? Why it Matters for Your Project

The difference between concrete and cement is one that people don’t often understand. They are frequently mistaken for one another, which could lead to problems with any surfacing or building project you are planning.

In this guide, we explain the differences between the two, so you know what is best for your project.

Concrete vs cement summary

Are cement and concrete the same thing?

No, and it’s a common misconception. Cement is an ingredient in concrete, but concrete is not cement. Cement is the binding powder that holds everything together. Concrete is the finished material used on driveways, carparks, and patios, for example.

You could think of it like baking a cake. Cement is like the flour, a crucial ingredient but not the finished product. Concrete is the cake, the result of combining the ingredients.

What is cement?

Cement is a fine grey binding powder that, when mixed with water, forms a paste capable of hardening and bonding other materials. On its own, cement doesn’t have much use, but when combined with other materials, it produces something durable like concrete or mortar.

What is cement made of?

You might be wondering, “What is cement made of?” It’s a fair question; it's widely used, but you might not even know what it really is. Cement is made by heating a mixture of limestone, chalk, clay, iron ore and bauxite to very high temperatures. These are typically around the 1,400-1,500°C mark. This process makes a material known as clinker. It is then ground into a fine powder, which then has Gypsum added as it is ground to control how quickly the cement sets once water is added.

What is cement used for?

Cement is primarily used as the binding agent in concrete and mortar. In concrete, it bonds aggregates such as sand and gravel into a solid, durable mass. In mortar, it’s used to join bricks, blocks and stonework. Cement is never used on its own as a structural material; it’s always part of a larger mix.

What is concrete?

Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in the world. It’s found in roads, bridges, buildings, driveways, car parks, foundations and more. It starts as a pourable liquid before hardening into a durable, long-lasting solid material as it cures.

What is concrete made of?

Concrete is made of four key ingredients:

• Cement – the binding agent
• Aggregates – sand, gravel or crushed stone (normally 60%-75% of the mix)
• Water – which activates the cement and initiates the hardening process
• Admixtures – Not always used, but when they are, they adjust the strength, setting time and workability of the concrete

The ratios of the ingredients can be adjusted depending on the project. A higher-strength mix uses a lower water-to-cement ratio, whereas a more workable mix might have a higher ratio.

How is concrete made?

When water is added to the dry cement and aggregate mix, a chemical reaction begins. This hydration causes the cement paste to harden and bind the aggregates into a solid mass. Within seven days, concrete will normally reach about 70% of its full strength, with full cure normally happening after 28 days. As a result, freshly poured concrete can never be walked on or driven on soon after it has been laid.

Is concrete or cement used in driveway or surfacing projects?

Concrete is the material used in driveway and surfacing projects, not cement alone. When a contractor installs a concrete driveway, they are pouring a carefully measured mix of cement, aggregates and water, which then cures to form the hard, load-bearing surface.

The overall quality of the driveway, car park, or road will depend on the quality of the concrete mix and the ratio of cement to aggregate and water. A well-proportioned mix, installed correctly by an experienced contractor, will provide a surface that can last for decades with very little maintenance required.

Need concrete surfacing in Sussex, Surrey or Kent?

With a clear understanding of the differences between concrete and cement, you can now make an informed decision as to whether a concrete surface is the optimal solution for your needs. At Tidey and Webb, we utilise our more than 40 years as surfacing contractors to deliver premium concrete driveways across Sussex, Surrey and Kent. Our team can repair or replace your existing concrete surface and make suggestions based on your specific needs to ensure you have a surface that not only lasts, but is easy to look after. Contact us today to find out more or get your free quote to get the process started.