What Is the Difference Between Concrete, Screed & Cement?

If you’re planning a construction project, there are three materials that you’ll typically hear mentioned: concrete, screed and cement. While those unfamiliar with the construction industry might assume these materials can be used interchangeably, each one has a distinct purpose. Therefore, it’s important you understand the differences between them to prevent you from making a big mistake when it comes to ordering materials. 

So what is the difference between concrete, screed and cement? The team at Tor Multimix is here to help explain.

What is concrete and how is it used?

From bridges and buildings to roads and foundations, concrete is used in virtually every construction project. It provides structural support and stability, ensuring that any structure can withstand heavy loads.

Essentially, concrete is a mixture of cement, sand, water and fine and coarse aggregates. The ratio of each ingredient can be adjusted depending on the needs of the project in question; for example, an increase in cement content typically leads to a stronger mix. You can also incorporate other materials, such as fibres and admixtures, to create a concrete mix that meets the unique needs of your project. There are other specialist mixes available – such as foamed concrete, coloured concrete and pumped concrete – and your chosen concrete suppliers can be on hand to offer advice on the right product

Concrete can arrive at your site ready-mixed so that it can be poured straight away; this allows you to have a well-mixed, consistent concrete that provides a uniform finish.

What is screed and how is it used?

Like concrete, screed is also made from cement, sand and water. However, unlike concrete, screed doesn’t contain coarse aggregates, giving it a smoother and thinner consistency. Screed is applied on top of a concrete subfloor to ensure the surface is uniform and perfectly level; it can then be left bare for an industrial finish or covered with flooring materials, such as tiles, carpet or wood.

There are two main types of screed available: traditional sand cement screed and liquid screed. Traditional sand cement screed will typically be delivered to your site via tipper. It will arrive in a semi-dry condition with a retarding admixture included, which ensures you have around eight hours to place and finish the screed.

Here at Tor Multimix, we also supply Longfloor liquid screed – a cementitious screed with very high workability. This screed is pumped into place, saving you time, money and labour to ensure a much quicker application than traditional sand cement screed.

What is cement and how is it used?

Cement is used to produce concrete and screed, although the quantity of cement in each concrete or screed mix can be adjusted to achieve different strengths depending on the use it will be put to. Although it can often be confused with concrete, it should never be used in its place, as cement alone won’t provide enough strength and support. 

Which do I need: concrete, screed or cement?

 No matter what kind of construction project you’re embarking on, chances are you’ll require all three of these materials at some point. 

Concrete is the cornerstone of any construction project and provides a solid foundation that can support all the structural elements of a new building. Screed is then used to produce an even and smooth finish to the concrete subfloor so that the final floor coverings can be applied. As cement is a key ingredient in both concrete and screed mixes, it’s inevitable that any project that requires these materials will also need cement; in fact, work won’t be able to begin without it. 

For your next construction project in Glastonbury, Bridgwater, Somerset or beyond, get in touch with the team at Tor Multimix – we’ve got everything you need to get started. With over 20 years of experience, our knowledgeable team can talk you through the different concrete mixes we have available and help to find the right product for the needs of your project.

Contact us to discuss your requirements or to schedule your concrete delivery.