Cement is used every day in Australian construction, from small home projects to major infrastructure. This page answers common cement questions, including the difference between cement and concrete, how to use cement correctly, how much cement you may need, and how to choose the right cement product for your application.
If you already know what you need, you can also jump straight to:
- Packaged cement products (bagged cement and dry mixes)
- Bulk cement (large projects and continuous supply)
What is cement
Cement is a fine powder that acts as a binder. When mixed with water, it reacts and hardens, binding other materials together. On its own, cement is rarely used. It is typically combined with sand and aggregates to make concrete, mortar or grout.
Cement vs concrete vs mortar: what is the difference
Cement
Cement is the binder ingredient. It is the powder in the bag.
Concrete
Concrete is a building material made by mixing:
- cement
- aggregates (crushed rock and sand)
- water
Concrete is used for slabs, footpaths, driveways and structural elements.
Mortar
Mortar is a cement based mix used for brick and block laying. It is typically made with:
- cement
- sand
- water
- sometimes lime or other additives, depending on the application
Grout
Grout is used to fill gaps or voids, or to place materials where flow and filling are required. It can be cement based, depending on the system.
Choosing the right cement for your application
Different projects call for different cement products. For many everyday applications, General Purpose Cement is a common starting point.
General concreting and standard mixes
For many standard concrete and general construction applications, General Purpose Cement is commonly used.
Masonry, rendering and general building work
For mortar and rendering work, Builders Cement may be specified as a versatile alternative to GP cement in many applications.
Faster strength gain requirements
For applications where early strength development is required, High Early Strength Cement may be used.
Decorative and colour sensitive work
For lighter coloured or decorative finishes, Off White Cement is designed for applications where colour matters.
Prefer a ready to use mix
For many home and small trade jobs, ready to use packaged dry mixes can be simpler than batching cement and aggregates separately. Packaged dry mixes are pre blended for consistency and convenience.
How to use cement
Cement based products perform best when they are mixed, placed and cured correctly. Always follow the instructions on the bag or product data sheet and consider your local conditions.
Mixing basics
- Measure materials consistently, do not guess ratios
- Mix thoroughly to a uniform texture
- Avoid adding excess water, as this can reduce strength
- Only mix what you can place within the working time
Placing and finishing
- Prepare the base properly so the material is supported evenly
- Compact and finish to suit the application
- Protect edges and joints where required
Curing matters
Curing is critical for strength and durability. Keep concrete or cement based work protected from rapid drying, especially in hot, windy conditions.
If you are unsure what is suitable for your project, ask your supplier or a qualified tradesperson.
How much cement do I need
The amount of cement required depends on:
- what you are building
- the mix design or ratio
- the volume of material needed
- the thickness of the slab or layer
For example, a slab needs a different mix and volume calculation than a mortar bed or render coat.
A practical approach:
- Calculate the volume you need (length × width × thickness)
- Confirm the mix ratio or select a packaged product designed for the job
- Use the product guidance and coverage information to estimate bag quantities
For smaller projects, packaged products can simplify estimating and reduce waste.
Storage and handling
Cement and cement based products should be stored:
- in a dry place
- off the ground
- protected from moisture
If cement absorbs moisture, it can begin to set before use and may not perform as intended.
Common cement questions
For many standard residential slabs and driveways, general purpose cement is commonly used, but selection should consider site conditions and project requirements.
If you are not sure, refer to the relevant product page or speak with your supplier.
Cement is usually used as an ingredient in concrete, mortar or grout, not on its own. Using cement alone generally does not produce a durable result for most construction applications.
Cement is the binder ingredient. Concrete is cement mixed with sand, aggregates and water.
Brick and block work typically uses mortar mixes. Builders Cement or General Purpose Cement may be used as part of mortar mixes depending on the specification and application.
Bagged cement and packaged products are commonly used for smaller jobs and trade purchases through resellers. Bulk cement is typically used for large scale supply and continuous demand.
Boral’s packaged cement products are available through resellers, and availability can vary by location and stockist.
For packaged options, start here: Packaged Cement Products
Boral supplies supplementary cementitious materials such as fly ash and slag, which can be used in some applications to support durability and sustainability requirements where appropriate.
Explore Boral’s cement range
Use these links to go deeper depending on what you need:
- Cement products and supply in Australia
- Packaged cement products and dry mixes
- Bulk cement supply
- General Purpose Cement
- Builders Cement
Need help choosing the right product
If you have a question about product selection or availability, or to request a quote, click the button below.