Everything you need to know about white concrete
One particular type of concrete that people use is white concrete. People sometimes refer to it as white Portland cement. Ordinary grey Portland cement is the most common type of cement in the world.
It’s worth mentioning that white concrete functions in much the same way as standard concrete. The only significant difference is the colour. It has many of the same uses as regular cement.
This process requires chemical modification during manufacturing to create its colour. This means that white cement will cost more, so it is not economical for structural projects such as foundations.
What are the uses of white concrete?
People can use white concrete for a variety of projects. Technically speaking people can make use of it for the same projects as grey cement. However, in most cases it is a design element – not a constructive element.
It is a beautiful look for a concrete floor, as slabs for a patio or in a garden path. People do not usually use white concrete for construction or ordinary masonry as it is primarily for decorative use.
One advantage of this material is that it often eliminates the need for additional painting or finishing. While standard grey options are functional, they can look dull, making a lighter mix a more visually appealing choice.
Some of the popular applications of white concrete include the following:
- Flooring: A pale concrete floor offers natural brightness and texture. One major advantage of using a white mix is its long-lasting colour that wonât fade, unlike painted or stained grey cement, which can chip or discolour over time.
- Cladding: Exterior panels in this finish can be visually striking and reflect light effectively. This approach is popular in commercial buildings and high-end residential designs.
- Patios and gardens: The materialâs brightness and durability make it both functional and attractive. Slabs used for patios or garden paths also stand up well to weather exposure.
Essentially the use of white concrete is a decorative choice. Due to the higher cost compared to standard grey mixes, its use is typically justified by more than just functionality, often chosen for its visual or design appeal.
Key Benefits and Features
White concrete will make a visual impact in terms of design. It is also a very responsive form of concrete in terms of further decoration and finishing. Staining and colouring a white cement mix provides a brighter appearance in comparison to grey cement.
Using grey cement is more economical, but the resulting colour can have a duller hue. In a project seeking to make a visual impact, the vivid nature of white cement is capable of absorbing bright reds, pinks, yellows and other vibrant colours.
White concrete is also very reflective, which gives it a warmth and shimmer when it is sunlight. Artificial light also provides this sense of glowing, but to a lesser extent. This is why people commonly use white cement outside.
Are there any drawbacks to white concrete?
Essentially the main drawback of white cement is cost. However, as the decorative aspect is innate to the white concrete mix, additional finishing may not be necessary.
Concrete finishing services in residential and commercial projects may cover a large surface area. Some, such as polished finishing in an office, require durability and tolerance due to constant use and wear.
Since this material isnât typically used in high traffic areas like warehouse floors, it can appear more delicate. Its light, clean finish also makes any damage more noticeable.
How do you make white concrete?
Generally speaking, the steps necessary to make a white concrete mix are the same as any other form of concrete. The chief difference is that the white cement powder will have a distinct white colour, in comparison to the more common grey.
When laying a white concrete slab the process is also much the same. People wThe process for laying this type of slab is very similar to standard methods. It’s poured over a subbase of gravel or sand to form a foundation and then left to harden and cure like any other mix.
White concrete is as quick and simple to make as any other form of concrete. One consideration is that the quality of the sealing may have to be more precise, as any imperfections will seem more obvious on the bright white surface.
Finding the Right Supplier
While the primary benefits lie in its visual appeal, the high cost is a notable drawback. For foundations or structural elements, itâs not considered economical.
We are capable of delivering white concrete flooring, patios or other projects swiftly and with a professional grade of quality. All of our design projects make use of our extensive expertise to deliver exceptional finishes and craftsmanship.
Concrete design projects can be a challenge but our experts can deliver results, so when you are ready to start your own contact us for a quote and a professional result.