In today’s construction space, Portland cement is a fundamental material known for its versatility and durability. Among the various types available, Portland Type I/II cement stands out for its unique properties and applications.
Knowing the differences between Type I and Type II cement – as well as how Portland Type I/II differs from other types of cement – is crucial for success at the job site. Let’s review the differences, color options, and availability of Portland cement.
Differences Between Type I and Type II Cement
Portland cement is classified into different types based on its composition and the specific properties it imparts to concrete. Type I and Type II are two of the most commonly used types in projects.
Type I Cement
Also known as general-purpose cement, Type I is used when there are no special requirements for heat of hydration or sulfate resistance. It is ideal for structures where the concrete will not be exposed to severe sulfate conditions or extreme temperatures.
Type I cement is often used in buildings, bridges, pavements, and other everyday construction projects. Because it has high compressive strength and sets quickly, this type of cement is a popular choice for time-sensitive projects.
Type II Cement
This type is designed to offer moderate sulfate resistance, making it suitable for structures exposed to soil or water with moderate sulfate content.
Type II cement generates less heat during hydration compared to Type I, which is beneficial in large concrete pours where controlling temperature rise is crucial to avoid thermal cracking. This cement is commonly used in drainage structures, large piers, and retaining walls.
Color Options: White and Gray Type I/II Cement
Most jobs require gray Portland Type I or II cement. However, a white version is also available. The primary difference between white and gray cement lies in their color, the raw materials used in their production, and the desired exterior color appearance.
Gray Type I and II Cement
Traditional gray Portland cement is widely used in construction due to its strength, durability, and availability. The cement’s gray color comes from the iron and manganese oxides present in the raw materials.
This cement is suitable for most construction projects and is commonly used in foundations, walls, and pavements. It can also be used for decorative purposes, as it can be mixed with various pigments to create the required colors that fit the project specifications.
White Type I Cement
White Portland I cement is produced using raw materials with low iron and manganese content, resulting in a pure white color. This type of cement is often used in architectural applications where aesthetics are important, such as decorative concrete, precast panels, and terrazzo flooring.
For example, many architectural projects require the use of Type S Masonry Cement or a field mix of White Portland Type I and Type S Hydrated Lime to create a mortar that meets the required industry standard. Using white Portland cement can help achieve the project goals of durability and aesthetic appeal.
We’re Ready For Your Order of Portland Type I/II Cement
SESCO Cement offers unmatched quality, service, and selection to our cement customers. Our stock of Portland Type I/II cement is available in the following formats:
- Bulk: The SESCO terminal has 4 self-service truck loading lanes and a fully automated conveyance system ready to handle your bulk cement orders. Plus, we’re open 24/7 for your convenience.
- Bagged: Need to pick up bags of cement for a specific purpose? We have TEX-WHITE Portland Type I Cement and TEX-GRAY Portland Type I/II ready to go in 92.6 lb. bags. Our on-site machine palletizer makes transport a cinch.
Do you have more questions about the use of Portland cement? Need to find a reputable supplier for your next project? SESCO Cement is your one-stop shop for quality cement and top-tier customer service.
Call our customer service team today to find answers to your questions and schedule your next order.
