Cementing is a construction technique in which a layer of cement mortar or cement paste is applied to a surface to protect, reinforce, or finish it. The term can also refer to the process of binding loose materials into a solid mass by adding cement.
Methods and techniques
Cementing can be carried out in several ways depending on the purpose and the type of substrate:
- Floor cementing: a thin layer of cement mortar (also called a cement screed) is applied over a structural or concrete floor. This layer serves as a levelling and strengthening finish on which a final floor covering can be installed.
- Wall cementing: the application of a cement-based render or plaster coat to masonry or concrete walls. This provides protection against moisture and creates a smooth surface for painting or tiling.
- Joint cementing: the process of re-filling or repairing joints in masonry with cement mortar, also known as repointing.
The correct ratio of cement, sand, and water is crucial when cementing. A common ratio for a cement screed is 1 part cement to 3 or 4 parts sand, with enough water to achieve a workable but not overly wet consistency.
The substrate must be clean, dust-free, and sufficiently damp to ensure proper adhesion. For porous substrates, a bonding primer is often applied first.
Application
Cementing is widely used in construction, both in new builds and renovations. Common applications include laying screeds in residential and commercial buildings, finishing basements and cellars for moisture protection, repairing damaged masonry and pointing, and preparing substrates for tiles, natural stone, or other floor finishes.
Cementing exterior surfaces requires particular attention to frost resistance. In these cases, a cement type with a higher strength class or special additives is typically used to ensure long-term durability.
Related terms
- Cement
- Screed
- Rendering
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