Hi all.
I've been making patio slabs and balustrade for over 25 years. I used to use Castle Cement, but due to the fact the are bulking it out with lime I am unable to use it due to pinholes in the finished item. I have been using Southern Cement, but even that now has had it's setting time reduced (EC regulations on reducing chromium in cement I'm told).
I have yet to try the latest Blue Circle Cement and that now contains fly ash and also has a slower setting time than Southern.
I know I can use a rapid hardening cement or use additives but that just increases costs at a time I need to be trying to reduce them.
I just wondered if there were any other precasters on here or guys who lay concrete and wondered how you are getting on with our ever worsening cement.
I've been making patio slabs and balustrade for over 25 years. I used to use Castle Cement, but due to the fact the are bulking it out with lime I am unable to use it due to pinholes in the finished item. I have been using Southern Cement, but even that now has had it's setting time reduced (EC regulations on reducing chromium in cement I'm told).
I have yet to try the latest Blue Circle Cement and that now contains fly ash and also has a slower setting time than Southern.
I know I can use a rapid hardening cement or use additives but that just increases costs at a time I need to be trying to reduce them.
I just wondered if there were any other precasters on here or guys who lay concrete and wondered how you are getting on with our ever worsening cement.