The type of cement used for a floor depends on the specific application and desired properties, but a common and suitable choice for many situations is concrete made with C20 / Gen3 / ST1 grade cement.
Understanding Cement Grades for Floors
Before deciding, it's helpful to understand how cement for floors is categorized:
- C20 / Gen3 / ST1 Concrete: This general-purpose concrete is very common for domestic uses.
- Applications: It is suitable for garage floors, pathways, and shed bases.
- Properties: It provides a good balance of strength, durability, and workability, making it easy to handle for various floor projects.
Cement Options for Different Floor Types
Here's a breakdown of when to use C20 concrete and other cement options for floors:
| Floor Type | Recommended Cement | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Garage Floors | C20 / Gen3 / ST1 Concrete | Provides adequate strength to withstand vehicle weight and daily use. |
| Internal Domestic Floors | C20 / Gen3 / ST1 Concrete or a self-levelling screed for a perfectly flat finish. | Standard mix for general flooring. |
| Heavy-Duty Industrial Floors | High-strength concrete mixes with additives like fibres may be required, as specific grades will depend on load specifications. | Must be able to withstand heavy machinery, impacts, and constant traffic. |
| Shed Base | C20 / Gen3 / ST1 Concrete | Provides a strong, stable and level base for a shed. |
Using C20 / Gen3 / ST1 Concrete
Here's what you should know about using C20 / Gen3 / ST1 concrete for floors:
- Mixing: Can be mixed on site or purchased ready-mixed from suppliers.
- Placement: Requires proper preparation of the sub-base, use of formwork where needed, and appropriate tamping and leveling.
- Curing: Essential to keep the newly laid concrete damp to ensure it gains full strength.
- Surface: Finishing options include floating for a smooth finish or texturing for slip resistance.
Other Factors to Consider
- Subfloor Preparation: Proper site preparation is key for a durable floor. This includes ensuring the sub-base is compacted and level.
- Drainage: If the floor will be exposed to water, adequate drainage solutions are essential.
- Reinforcement: Reinforcing the concrete with rebar or mesh is important for larger floors or for high-load areas.
- Environment: Consider the climate and whether you will need to adjust the concrete mix or curing process.
By carefully considering your requirements and taking into account environmental factors, you can select the best cement for your floor. For many standard projects, C20 / Gen3 / ST1 is an excellent and reliable choice.
