10-14-2014, 11:09 AM
What to Look for when you buy Cement
It is advisable to purchase only well known brands of cement from reliable sources. A few rupees extra is money well spent as an inferior quality cement could lead to significantly higher cost later. Remember that cement once used cannot be replaced or improved in the same way as you can do with tiles and other such work. Besides, the cost of cement is only a small percentage compared to the total cost of construction. As a rule, cement should constitute only 10%-14% of the total construction cost. For example, if the total expenditure is about Rs.5 lakh, the cost of cement is likely to be 10 to 14 percent, which is around 500 bags. At a premium of five rupees per bag for good quality cement, the cost of cement will increase by about Rs.2500/-, which is quite insignificant when compared to the total budget of Rs.5 lakh.
Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) : It is prepared by grinding clinker along with gypsum. This is available in several grades like 33, 43 and 53.
Use : Can be used for all normal works.
Blended/Composite Cement : High quality clinker is inter-ground with gypsum and a performance enhancing bonding material like slag or poggolana. Comprises Portland Slag Cement (PSC) or fly ash based Portland Poggolana Cement (PPC).
Use : Can be used in all general constructions such as concreting, brick joining, plaster and special constructions. It gives concrete better long-term strength and durability.
It is advisable to purchase only well known brands of cement from reliable sources. A few rupees extra is money well spent as an inferior quality cement could lead to significantly higher cost later. Remember that cement once used cannot be replaced or improved in the same way as you can do with tiles and other such work. Besides, the cost of cement is only a small percentage compared to the total cost of construction. As a rule, cement should constitute only 10%-14% of the total construction cost. For example, if the total expenditure is about Rs.5 lakh, the cost of cement is likely to be 10 to 14 percent, which is around 500 bags. At a premium of five rupees per bag for good quality cement, the cost of cement will increase by about Rs.2500/-, which is quite insignificant when compared to the total budget of Rs.5 lakh.
Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) : It is prepared by grinding clinker along with gypsum. This is available in several grades like 33, 43 and 53.
Use : Can be used for all normal works.
Blended/Composite Cement : High quality clinker is inter-ground with gypsum and a performance enhancing bonding material like slag or poggolana. Comprises Portland Slag Cement (PSC) or fly ash based Portland Poggolana Cement (PPC).
Use : Can be used in all general constructions such as concreting, brick joining, plaster and special constructions. It gives concrete better long-term strength and durability.