Hydraulic cement is a construction grade material used in a wide variety of residential and commercial applications. The term “cement” actually dates back to the Roman Empire. At that time, it was referred to as “opus caementicium” or “Roman concrete”. Though the terms cement and concrete are frequently used reciprocally outside the construction industry, they are two separate materials. Cement is mixed with water, while concrete is a mixture of cement, gravel, sand and water.
What is Hydraulic Cement?
Hydraulic cement, is a construction material that becomes firm after being mixed with water. In short, hydraulic cement is any cement which hardens after being wet. There are two types of cement used in the construction industry: hydraulic and non-hydraulic. Hydraulic cement is often Portland cement mixed with water. While non-hydraulic cement, such as gypsum plaster and lime are kept dry. Hydraulic cement has a distinct advantage in construction. Because of its chemical makeup, once dry, it is nearly impervious to water. Therefore, hydraulic cement is used to erect not only residential and commercial buildings, it is used in the construction of bridges, harbors and dams. Non-hydraulic cement however, cannot fully harden when in contact with water or moisture. Therefore, it is rarely used in modern applications.
What are the Uses of Hydraulic Cement?
Hydraulic cement is designed for stopping active water leaks through breaks in all concrete and masonry. It does not need a professional to apply it. Often, a layperson can purchase hydraulic cement at a local hardware or home improvement store. Mixing instructions are printed on the packaging for ease of use. Hydraulic cement is ideal for use as a basement sealer. It stops basement leaks and can be used for waterproofing.
What Surfaces is Hydraulic Cement Applied to?
Homeowners with a damp basement might use hydraulic cement to seal basement leaks or for waterproofing a floor. hydraulic cement use a basement sealer can be done without having to “dry” the actual structure. For homeowner’s with a wet basement, hydraulic cement will likewise seal concrete crack repairs. Concrete crack repairs found in basement floors, walls and in any other part of a home or commercial structure can be fixed using hydraulic cement. Hydraulic cement applications are so versatile, it can used for storage tanks, concrete and pools pits. There are more applications for hydraulic cement. It may used to seal foundations, porches and as a first-time building material. It may also be used to complete a wall or divide a basement. Hydraulic cement is one of the most practical construction materials available today. Because of its ease of use and wide variety of applications, it is the choice of professionals the world over.