Cement, Concrete, or Mortar - Which is Right for the Job?

The materials can often be confused, but cement, concrete, and mortar are different substances used for distinct purposes. 

• Cement is a fine powder used as a binding agent to make concrete and mortar. Cement would not work on its own for a concrete project.

• Concrete is made up of cement, sand, and aggregate/gravel. Concrete is strong and used as a building material. 

• Mortar is made up of cement, fine sand, and water. Mortar is used as an adhesive to hold together masonry materials, such as brick or cinder blocks.

Rebar is used to provide reinforcement and stability in concrete applications. Sometimes a bonder is used to ensure the adhesion of new concrete to old. Concrete molds can be used to customize the look of poured concrete.

For jobs like setting fence posts, swing sets, and mailboxes, quick-set concrete is preferable for its short time to cure.

Concrete and mortar repair projects utilize products like concrete patch, mortar patch, concrete sealant, and crack filler. Liquid concrete color can be added to match the newly repaired concrete to the existing. A concrete mixer or mixing tub can be chosen based on the job size. Do it Best has everything you need to get started!