White cement, also known as POP cement, is a game-changer in the world of construction, offering a touch of elegance and sophistication to buildings and decorations. While it hasn’t been widely embraced in South Africa until recently, its demand is skyrocketing, driven by the desire for attractive POP ceilings, pillars, parapets, and vibrant colored concrete structures.
What Sets White Cement Apart?
White cement, often referred to as POP cement, stands out primarily due to its color. Unlike the conventional gray cement widely used in construction, white cement contains minimal iron or manganese, which are responsible for the gray hue. This absence of coloring agents allows for a pristine white finish, perfect for creating eye-catching designs and decorations.
Enhancing Aesthetics with White Cement
One of the remarkable features of white cement is its versatility in producing an array of bright and attractive colors. By simply mixing it with coloring agents, such as red, blue, or yellow, builders can achieve stunning decorative effects. This flexibility opens up endless possibilities for creative expression in construction projects.
Price Comparison and Considerations
In South Africa, white cement commands a higher price compared to ordinary gray cement, reflecting its premium quality and unique properties. To put it into perspective, a 25kg bag of white cement costs more than a 50kg bag of ordinary cement. The price range for white cement varies based on factors such as package quantity, product quality, brand, and location.
Current Prices of White Cement in South Africa:
- Small bag of white cement (5kg): R150 – R250
- Super White Cement (25kg): R750 – R900
- High-Quality White Cement (40kg): R1,200 – R1,800
- POP Cement (40kg): R550 – R600
Prices may fluctuate depending on the manufacturer, quality, and geographical location within South Africa.
Important Considerations for White Cement Usage
It’s crucial to note that white cement is not as structurally strong as ordinary gray cement. This is because certain components that contribute to the strength of gray cement are removed to maintain the white color. Therefore, it is primarily used for decorative purposes rather than structural construction.
Understanding Different Names and Uses
In the South African market, white cement is marketed under various names, including POP cement and “white cement for tiles.” These names often reflect its common applications, such as POP casts and filling gaps after tiling. Despite the different labels, they all refer to the same product – white cement.
Conclusion
White cement opens up a world of possibilities for creating visually stunning and aesthetically pleasing construction projects and decorations. While it comes at a premium price compared to ordinary cement, its versatility and ability to transform spaces make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to elevate their building designs.
FAQ
1.Can white cement be used for structural construction?
No, white cement is not as strong as ordinary gray cement and is primarily used for decorative purposes due to its color and composition.
2.What are the alternative names for white cement?
White cement is sometimes referred to as POP cement or “white cement for tiles,” reflecting its common applications in POP casts and filling gaps after tiling.
3.How should white cement be stored?
It’s advisable to purchase only the necessary amount of white cement at a time to avoid storage issues. Exposure to weather elements can affect its quality and render it unusable.