Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Building a home is one of the most important decisions in your life. From dreaming about your home to seeing it come up, and living in it, a thousand questions pop into the mind. We have compiled a list of such cement related questions and tried to answer them in the easiest way possible. In case you can’t find what you’re looking for, post your query in the form at the end of this page:

Before Construction

How many bags of cement do I need to construct a 1000 sq. ft. roof?

You would need 80 bags of 50 kg each to construct a roof slab of 1000 sq. ft. area and slab thickness of 4 inches.
For more information, contact Dalmia Build Advisor.

How is cement manufactured?

Cement is manufactured in a controlled process with raw materials that are rich in elements like calcium, silica, alumina and iron. When heated at high temperatures, the elements in the raw material fuse and upon cooling they form clinker. Clinker is then ground along with other materials such as gypsum into a fine powder called cement.
For specific information, contact Dalmia Build Advisor.

Does the colour of cement affect its quality?

Colour does not have any effect on cement properties. Its strength is defined by the proportions of raw material mix.
For specific information, contact Dalmia Build Advisor.

What is the difference between ready mix concrete and manually mixed cement?

Ready-mix concrete is pre-mixed concrete prepared in a concrete plant before it is transported to the construction site.
Manually mixed concrete is prepared right at the site using cement mixed with aggregates in a small mixing unit.
For specific information, contact Dalmia Build Advisor.

What is the best type of cement for slab casting?

For slab casting, the recommended choice is OPC or PPC cement. However, Dalmia DSP cement gives you a definitive edge over these, with higher overall strength and quicker setting time.
For specific information, contact Dalmia Build Advisor.

What is the recommended mix of concrete for my house?

For residential slabs, mix 1 part of cement, 1 ½ part of sand, and 3 parts of gravel. You should mix these with approximately 22 to 25 litres of water per bag of cement used.
For specific information, contact Dalmia Build Advisor.

During Construction

What is the ideal proportion of cement and sand for wall plastering?

For outer wall surfaces and ceiling, the ratio of cement to sand should be 1:3 to 1:4
For inner wall surfaces, the ratio of cement to sand should be 1:4 to 1:5
For specific information, contact Dalmia Build Advisor.

What’s the ideal proportion of cement and sand for masonry walls?

For 9-inch thick walls, the ratio of cement to sand should be 1:6 and for 4 ½ -inch thick walls, the ratio of cement to sand should be 1:3
For specific information, contact Dalmia Build Advisor.

What is the ideal shelf life of cement?

Cement remains in good condition as long as it does not come in contact with moisture. However, if cement is more than 3 months old, it should be tested for its strength before use.
For specific information, contact Dalmia Build Advisor.

What is the best way to cure a brick wall surface?

There is no fixed method to cure a plastered surface. However, you need to ensure that the wall surface is wet at all times, so that the cement gets enough water to set. This can be done either by using a pipe connected to a tap or a mug & bucket.

How much time does it take to cure a surface after plasterwork?

Cement usually completes 80% of the setting in the initial 14 days. Therefore, we recommend curing for the first 2 weeks with occasional curing once in 3 days thereafter.

Renovation

How can I create more storage space in my home?

Building in-wall closets is a tried and tested way to increase storage spaces for your home.
You can use Dalmia Cement to make cupboards that are resistant to moisture and termites.

What decorative finishes can be applied to concrete surfaces?

Colours may be added to concrete by adding pigments.
Geometric patterns can also be stamped or rolled into the concrete to resemble stone, brick or tile paving. Textured finishes in concrete surfaces might vary from a smooth polish to the roughness of gravel.
For specific information, contact Dalmia Build Advisor.

Construction in Coastal Areas

What type of construction material should be used coastal construction?

Durability is the most important thing to consider in material for coastal construction.
Therefore, the sand, aggregate and water used for making mortar and concrete needs to be free from harmful salts, chlorides, sulphates, as they can adversely impact the strength and durability of the construction.
Also, it is recommended to consult a structural engineer to design the structure and adhere to the recommended grades of concrete for the structure.
Contact Dalmia Build Advisor for more information.

Why do I need moisture-resistant roofs? How can I get them?

Due to high humidity in coastal areas, moisture resistance becomes critical to ensure long term durability and strength of the construction. It should be noted that a well-made concrete roof is inherently moisture resistant. However, to ensure moisture resistance, observe good construction practices such as- using good quality ingredients to make mortar and concrete, sand, aggregates and water, their proper proportioning, mixing etc. This should be followed by proper curing for the recommended duration.
Contact Dalmia Build Advisor for more information.

Contact Dalmia Build Advisor For Any Other Questions.

Our Expert Team Is Waiting To Hear From You.

CONTACT US