THE BLUE CIRCLE

BUILDERS’ GUIDE
TO CEMENT
ABOUT THIS GUIDE
A wide range of packed cements and premixed
products is currently available from builders’
merchants throughout the UK.
This Guide therefore includes:

• B
 asic information on each packed cement and
premixed products.
• G
 uidance on appropriate applications for:
General Concreting
Mortars
Rendering
Floor Screeds
Ready-to-Use products
• A
 dvice on recommended mixes for these
applications.
• R
 eady reckoner and tables for estimating quantities.
• T
 echnical matters for consideration during a
project, and associated application details.
• H
 ealth and safety issues.

If you wish to enquire about a specification or need more

information to decide which product to use, we can help
you further.
We aim to ensure that you are kept fully aware of new
products and developments, as and when they arise.
Once you have received literature from us, this will trigger
automatic updating with any new publication relevant to
your business.
Alternatively, a simple check on our website
www.tarmac.com will ensure you have
the most up-to-date information.

Whilst all reasonable care has been taken in the

preparation of this guide to give sound advice, Tarmac
Cement and Lime Ltd can take no responsibility for
any loss, damage or injury, however caused, in using it.
Please refer to detailed technical information from
Tarmac Cement and Lime Ltd.
Please ensure you have the latest literature as we update
these publications on a regular basis.

PAGE 2
CONTENTS
Part 1 General Concreting 4
Part 2 Mortars 16
Part 3 Rendering 23
Part 4 Floor Screeds 27
Part 5 Product Range 35
Part 6 Ready-to-Use 45
Part 7 Health & Safety 50

PAGE 3
GENERAL CONCRETING PART 1

INTRODUCTION
Concrete has a wide range of end uses, from
the small DIY job to the largest civil engineering
project.
This section describes general purpose, foundation
and paving concretes mixed on site using Blue
Circle cements in bags. Advice on the use of
ready-mixed concretes for larger jobs may be
obtained on request. For information on Blue
Circle premixed concretes, refer to Part 6 of
this guide.

PAGE 4
GENERAL CONCRETING PART 1

TABLE 1: CEMENTS FOR CONCRETE

nt
me
Ce
se
po
e

Pur

id
ret

e
ete

ret
p
erc

a
ral
m

aR

acr

wc
oce

ene
ast

xtr

no
u l
eM

eG

eS

eS
eE
eP
ircl

ircl

ircl

ircl

ircl

ircl
eC

eC

eC

eC

eC

eC
Blu

Blu

Blu

Blu

Blu

Blu

p.37 p.37 p.38 p.38 p.39 p.39

General purpose
4 4
concreting
Enhanced freeze/
4
thaw resistance
Improved
4
workability

4 Sulfate resistance

Architectural
4
Concrete

4 4 4 Structural concrete

Fast setting /
4
rapid hardening
4 Recommended

PAGE
PAGE 55
GENERAL CONCRETING PART 1

ASPECTS TO CONSIDER PRIOR TO STARTING WORK

Accurate proportioning (or batching) of materials and
thorough mixing are essential for making good quality
concrete. Either method of batching, by weight or by volume,
may be used.
When using the batching by volume method, it is important
that the materials are measured with the aid of a batch gauge
box. A batch box has four sides and no bottom. It is placed
on a mixing platform before being filled, and so never needs
lifting when full. If preferred, a smaller gauge box with a
bottom may be used, which is light enough to be lifted by
two people and carried to the mixing platform.
During the mixing and placing of concrete, air is entrapped
in the form of voids. The voids lower the performance of
concrete and may lead to the following problems:
• R
 educed strength.
• Increased permeability and reduced durability (the
concrete will be less watertight and also more vulnerable
to aggressive materials).
To produce a concrete that is strong, dense and impermeable,
the mix should be thoroughly compacted to remove the
entrapped air. Compaction may be achieved by hand tamping,
but the best method is by mechanical vibration.

ADVICE ON RECOMMENDED MIXES

Table 2 (page 7) indicates the recommended concrete mixes
for general purpose use, foundations and pavings, followed by
information on the materials that may be used.

PAGE 6
GENERAL CONCRETING PART 1

TABLE 2: MIXES SUITABLE FOR CONCRETE

Proportions by volume

All-in
Portland 20mm aggregate
Use
cement Sand aggregate or ballast
Paving
(all exposed flat 1 1.5 2.5
slabs including
paths, garage
drives, yards and
hardstanding) 1 3.5

General purpose
(most uses except 1 2 3
foundations and
exposed paving)
1 4

Foundations
(footings, 1 2.5 3.5
foundations and
bases for precast
paving) 1 5

Portland Cement = • Blue Circle Mastercrete • Blue Circle Procem

• Blue Circle General Purpose Cement
• Blue Circle Sulfacrete • Blue Circle Snowcrete

MATERIALS TO USE
Cements: Refer to application Table 1 (pages 4 and 5) and the
appropriate product range pages.
Aggregates: C
 oarse aggregate: Graded or single sized natural gravel,
crushed gravel or crushed rock to BS EN 12620.
Fine aggregate (sand): Natural sand or crushed rock fines to
BS EN 12620.
All-in aggregate: Clean and well-graded with about 60% of
particles over 5mm.
Water: Only clean mains water should be used.

Note: Aggregate is the term used to describe gravels, crushed rocks and
sands, and they are classified as coarse or fine.
Fine aggregate (sand) is material passing through a 5mm sieve. Combined
coarse and fine aggregate is described as all-in or ballast.

PAGE 7
GENERAL CONCRETING PART 1

READY RECKONER FOR CONCRETE MIXES

Working out quantities
The concrete ready reckoner provides a quick and simple
way of determining the amount of concrete required for a
particular job.
For example, an area of 25m2 and a thickness of 100mm
requires 2.5m3 of concrete.
When the total amount of concrete has been determined
from the ready reckoner, the materials quantities tables
immediately below it can be used to determine the amount
of cement and aggregates required for foundations, general
purposes and pavings.

PAGE 8
 GENERAL CONCRETING PART 1

READY RECKONER FOR CONCRETE MIXES

m)
s (m
)
2

nes
a (m

ick
Are

Th
35

50 75 100 125
30
150

25

200
20

15
300

10

Volume (m3)

1 2 3 4 5
Foundation mix Quantities Materials
Cement bags
(nominal 25kg)
10 20 30 40 50 60

Damp sand (m3)

1 2
Coarse aggregate
(m3)
1 2 3 4
All-in aggregate -
3
1 2 3 4 5 ballast (m )

Materials
General purpose mix Quantities
Cement bags
(nominal 25kg)
10 20 30 40 50 60 70

Damp sand (m3)

1 2
Coarse aggregate
(m3)
1 2 3
All-in aggregate -
1 2 3 4 ballast (m3)
Materials
Paving mix Quantities
Cement bags
20 40 60 80 (nominal 25kg)

Damp sand (m3)

1 2
Coarse aggregate
1 2 3 (m3)
All-in aggregate -
1 2 3 4 5
ballast (m3)

PAGE 9 PAGE 9
GENERAL CONCRETING PART 1

For 2.5m3 of concrete the following quantities are:

Foundation mix
• 30 bags of Blue Circle Procem (nominal 25 kg)
• 1.25m3 damp sand
• 2 .0m3 coarse aggregate or
• 2 .5m3 all-in aggregate – ballast.
General purpose mix
• 3 5 bags of Blue Circle General Purpose Cement
(nominal 25 kg)
• 1 .25m3 damp sand
• 1 .8m3 coarse aggregate or
• 2.5m3 all-in aggregate – ballast.
Paving mix
• 4 0 bags of Blue Circle Mastercete (nominal 25 kg)
• 1 .0m3 damp sand
• 1 .75m3 coarse aggregate or
• 2 .5m3 all-in aggregate – ballast.
These quantities do not include any allowance for wastage.
When purchasing materials, however, it is recommended that
the quantities of aggregates are rounded up to the nearest
half or full cubic metre and an extra 10% of cement is added
to allow for wastage.

PAGE 10
GENERAL CONCRETING PART 1

HOW TO MIX CONCRETE

Machine mixing
A 100 litre tilting drum mixer (generally known as a 5/3½ or
half-bag mixer) is a convenient size for general concreting.
The following procedure is recommended:
• L oad half the coarse aggregate and half the anticipated
amount of water into the mixer.
• A
 dd most of the cement and sand.
• A
 dd the rest of the materials alternately, avoiding build-up
of dry or hardened material on the blades and drum.
• M
 ix for at least 2 minutes to obtain a concrete of uniform
consistency and colour.
Hand mixing
Mixing by hand is hard work, but is satisfactory if the
correct procedures are followed. Always work on a hard and
reasonably smooth surface such as a sheet of plywood or a
concrete drive or yard.
The following procedure is recommended:
• M
 easure out the aggregate into a compact pile.
• F orm a crater in the top and add the measured quantity of
cement.
• T
 urn over at least 3 times in the dry state until uniform in
colour and texture.
• F orm a crater in the pile and add some of the water. Bring
the dry material to the water and keep mixing, adding
water as necessary until uniform in consistency and colour.
For both machine and hand mixing, use only sufficient
water in the mix to ensure workability and allow thorough
compaction.

PAGE 11
GENERAL CONCRETING PART 1

HOW TO PLACE AND COMPACT CONCRETE

The following procedure is recommended:
• A
 fter mixing, deposit the concrete at, or as near as possible
to, its final position.
• P lace the concrete quickly, evenly and steadily without
causing segregation.
• P lace the concrete in uniform layers.
E nsure that the concrete is well compacted, especially into
corners as follows:
• F or deep sections such as trench foundations, a poker
vibrator should be moved between the trench sides or
formwork (and any reinforcement) so that all areas of the
concrete mix are vibrated. Alternatively, use a ‘punner’ for
unreinforced work.
• F or unreinforced ground floor slabs or in situ concrete
paving and drives, the mix should be spread just above the
level of the edge formwork and compacted with a tamping
beam (a length of timber on edge). Alternatively, a vibrating
beam will achieve faster compaction more efficiently.
For all concrete elements, fully compact each layer before
placing the next one, ensuring that the lower layer can still be
vibrated.
Types of surface finish to floor slabs
There are several different types of surface finish to consider,
and these are set out below.
Tamped
A rippled finish left by tamping. The final finish can range from
fine to bold, depending on how the tamping beam is used.
Brushed
A variety of finishes can be achieved by brushing the concrete
surface. For example:
A smooth finish is obtained with a soft broom used on fresh
concrete immediately after compaction.
A lightly rippled finish is obtained with a stiff brush or nylon
broom as the concrete starts to stiffen.

PAGE 12
GENERAL CONCRETING PART 1

Exposed aggregate
A textured finish is obtained by brushing and washing the
surface when the concrete has stiffened sufficiently to hold
the coarse aggregate firmly in place, ie, when the concrete is
just hard enough to walk on.
Float
A variety of finishes can be achieved by using a wood or
steel float.

HOW TO CURE AND PROTECT CONCRETE

The following procedure is recommended:
• C
 over with polythene sheeting as soon as the concrete is
hard enough not to be marked by the sheeting.
• W
 eigh down the edges of the sheeting so that the wind
cannot blow underneath.
• L eave the covering in place for at least 7 days.
Inclement weather precautions may need to be followed
during the carrying out of the work:
• D
 o not mix concrete when the air temperature is at or
below 5°C.
• Do not place concrete during heavy rain.
• If there is a risk of frost once the concrete has been placed,
protect with an insulation quilt sandwiched between
two sheets of polythene sheeting and weighted down; or
protect with a layer of sand.
• E qually, during hot and/or windy weather, the concrete mix
should be protected from drying out too quickly to avoid
surface crazing and shrinkage cracking.

PAGE 13
GENERAL CONCRETING PART 1

Mixing shovel test Compacting with a tamping beam

Compacting with a punner Soft broom finish

Wood float finish Curing

Tools

Barrow

Shovel Punner Broom

Wood float

Steel trowel

PAGE 14
GENERAL CONCRETING PART 1

Remove topsoil
from working area

Setting outlines for a simple slab using pegs and string.

Locate the pegs outside the working area to let work continue.
To ensure squareness of slab, check that the diagonals are equal.

Remove topsoil
from working area

Foundation
outline

Setting outlines for a simple foundation using profile boards and string.
(Only foundation centre lines shown).
Locate the profile boards outside the working area to let work continue.

Centre line of foundation

Width of foundation

A profile board and string lines. Mark the centre line of the wall on the
profile board then measure out to establish the width of the foundation.
Cut notches to locate string lines.

PAGE 15
MORTARS PART 2

TABLE 3: CEMENTS FOR MORTARS

Enhanced freeze/thaw resistance

Compatible with admixtures

Improved plasticity

Sulfate resistance

White colour
Blue Circle Cement Product

Blue Circle Mastercrete p.37 4 4

Blue Circle Procem p.37 4

Blue Circle General

p.38
Purpose Cement

Blue Circle Sulfacrete p.39 4

Blue Circle Snowcrete p.39 4 4

4 Recommended

Note: The addition of Blue Circle Hydralime improves plasticity, cohesiveness

and water retention in Portland cement mortars.

GENERAL INTRODUCTION
A mortar is a mixture of materials for joining masonry units. The basic
materials are cement, sand and water, but other materials such as lime or
air-entraining agents (plasticisers) may also be used to improve working
properties and durability.

Aspects to consider prior to starting work

Types of mortar
There are several different types of mortar to consider, and these are set
out below.
Cement mortar
This type of mortar in the proportions of 1:3 to 4 cement : sand is
generally only used for foundations and below damp proof course.
Please ensure that additives other than lime are compatible for the
cement type used with the manufacturer.

PAGE 16
MORTARS PART 2

Cement: hydrated lime mortar

This has good plasticity and is easy to spread. It also has good water
retention and bonding properties.
Air-entrained (plasticised) mortar
This has similar working properties to cement hydrated lime mortar.
The entrained air also gives the hardened mortar improved freeze/thaw
resistance.
Sulfate-resisting mortar
This type of mortar may be required in some ground conditions or with
bricks containing sulfates. Improved resistance to sulfate attack can be
provided with Blue Circle Sulfacrete (advice is available on request).

Mortar properties to be achieved

A good mortar should:
• H
 ang on the trowel (a cohesive mix) and spread easily.
• R emain workable long enough for bricks or blocks to be placed easily
and adjusted to line and level.

• A
 dhere to the bed face of the brick or block.
• S tiffen sufficiently quickly to allow a reasonable rate of working
without excessive mortar being squeezed from the joint.

• H
 ave similar compressive strength to the bricks or blocks, but should
not be stronger than is necessary to provide masonry of adequate
strength to meet structural and durability requirements.

• H
 ave adequate tensile strength to support flexural and shear loads.
• R esist frost and water penetration in external positions.
• N
 ot detract from the appearance of the brick or block.

PAGE 17
MORTARS PART 2

ADVICE ON RECOMMENDED MIXES

Table 4, below indicates recommended mortar mixes for
general purpose use and for high durability.

TABLE 4: MIXES SUITABLE FOR MORTAR

Portland
cement: Portland
Blue Circle cement:
Mortar Hydralime: sand
Designation Sand (+ plasticiser)

(I) 1 : 0.25 : 3

(II) Strong 1 : 0.5 : 4 to 4.5 1 : 3 to 4

(III) General use 1 : 1 : 5 to 6 1 : 5 to 6

(IV) 1 : 2 : 8 to 9 1 : 7 to 8

Portland Cement = • Blue Circle Mastercrete • Blue Circle Procem
• Blue Circle General Purpose Cement
• Blue Circle Sulfacrete • Blue Circle Snowcrete

Strong mix for footings, sill, copings and retaining walls with dense masonry.
General mix for most ‘normal’ situations.

MATERIALS TO USE
Cements: Refer to application Table 3 (page 16) and the
appropriate product range pages.
Hydrated lime: Blue Circle Hydralime.
Admixtures: Air-entraining plasticisers to BS EN 934–3: 2003.
Sands: Clean: well-graded, free from impurities to BS 1200.
Water: Only clean mains water should be used.

PAGE 18
MORTARS PART 2

QUANTITIES
Table 5, below indicates the quantities required for the
recommended mixes set out in Table 4 (page 18).
All quantities in Table 5 are approximate and no allowance has
been made for wastage. Sand is assumed to be damp and a
20% allowance has been made for bulking.

TABLE 5: QUANTITIES OF MATERIALS FOR MIXES

USING PORTLAND CEMENT:
BLUE CIRCLE HYDRALIME:SAND
Proportions by volume
Quantities
of materials 1 : 1/4 : 3 1 : 1/2 : 41/2 1:1:6
1 1 1
For a 25 /8 bag Blue /6 bag Blue /2 bag Blue
kg bag of Circle Hydralime Circle Hydralime Circle Hydralime
cement use: 0.065m3 sand 0.08m3 sand 0.11m3 sand
16 bags cement 14 bags cement 10 bags cement
2 bags Blue Circle 2.5 bags Blue 4 bags Blue Circle
For 1m3 of Hydralime Circle Hydralime Hydralime
mortar use: 1.0m3 sand 1.1m3 sand 1.1m3 sand

Notes for Table 5

1m3 of mortar is approximately equivalent to the following quantities of
bricks and blocks:
Brickwork
• 1800-2000 bricks, 10mm joint, frog up, 102.5mm wall thickness
• 1400-1600 bricks, 10mm joint, frog up, 215mm wall thickness
Blockwork single leaf wall, 440mm x 215mm units
• 2500 blocks, 10mm joint, 50mm wall thickness
• 2000 blocks, 10mm joint, 75mm wall thickness
• 1500 blocks, 10mm joint, 100mm wall thickness
• 1000 blocks, 10mm joint, 150mm wall thickness

PAGE 19
MORTARS PART 2

HOW TO GAUGE AND MIX MORTARS

When the appropriate mix has been chosen, the materials
should be carefully gauged. Weigh-batching gives the most
accurate form of gauging.
If the materials are to be measured by volume then gauge
boxes or other containers should be used for each of the
materials.
Measuring by shovel is not recommended. Sand is normally
damp and cohesive, and will stand up on the shovel, whereas
cement, being a dry and fine powder, will fall off the shovel.
Mixes measured by volume in this way would be deficient
in cement.
Variability in mix proportions is also likely to affect colour,
strength and durability.
Mechanical mixing, using for example, small tilting drum
mixers, produces good results and is preferred to hand mixing.
When all the materials are in the mixer a mixing time of 3 to 5
minutes is generally satisfactory. Short mixing times can lead
to poor uniformity and workability. Long mixing times can
lead to excessive air-entrainment with plasticised mortar.
When mixing by hand, the materials should be thoroughly
mixed in the dry state (turn over at least 3 times) to obtain
uniformity and consistency before adding water.

HOW TO APPLY MORTARS

Mortar should generally be used within about 2 hours of
mixing, otherwise it should be discarded. It should not be
retempered. Hot weather may shorten the working life of the
mortar due to water loss. The working life can be extended by
covering the mortar.
Bricks or blocks should be laid on freshly spread mortar. Once
brick or block has been positioned, it should not be disturbed
as this can readily break the bond.

PAGE 20
MORTARS PART 2

HOW TO CURE AND PROTECT MORTARS

Cover completed brickwork and blockwork with polythene
for 3 to 7 days depending on conditions to protect
it from:
• R
 apid drying out during hot weather and/or exposure to
drying winds.
• F reezing and the chilling effect of cold winds. In severe
cold weather, an insulation quilt may be provided under
the covering.
Rain-soaked brickwork will be slow to dry, and this could lead
to lime bloom (efflorescence).
A robust and easy to read mercury thermometer is
recommended for temperature measurement.
Do not use frost-laden sand.
Do not mix mortar when the air temperature is at or
below 5˚C.

PAGE 21
MORTARS PART 2

Machine mixing Hand mixing

Cohesive mix Laying bricks

Laying blocks Curing

Tools

Bucket
Gauge box

Mixer Bricklaying trowel

Level

PAGE 22
RENDERING PART 3

1. INTRODUCTION
A number of Blue Circle cement products can be
used for rendering including:
• Blue Circle Procem
• Blue Circle Mastercrete
• Blue Circle General Purpose Cement
• Blue Circle Snowcrete
All these products conform to BS EN 197-1, are CE Marked, and are suitable
for use in rendering if the correct practices are followed. These cements
do however all have slightly different properties, and this publication
gives some guidance on how to get the best performance from these
products when used in rendering. This is particularly important if the end-
user is unfamiliar with the characteristics of a particular product.

2. THE KEY STEPS

The key steps for a successful rendering job can be summarised as:
• Understanding the nature of the substrate (wall).
• Preparing the substrate.
• Selecting the most appropriate render mix.
• Applying a suitable scratchcoat.
• Curing the scratchcoat.
• Applying a suitable topcoat / finishing coat.
• Curing the topcoat.
We will look at each of these aspects in turn.

2.1 The Substrate

Understanding the nature of the substrate (the wall to be rendered) is
critical to the success of any rendering job. The key properties of the
substrate are:
• Strength.
• Water absorption or ‘Suction’.
In general, stronger substrates will require stronger render mixes. Whilst
a degree of suction is required to enable the scratchcoat to bond to the
substrate, excessive suction (as might be found with aerated concrete
blocks) may suck too much water out from the scratchcoat or any applied
spattercoat. This in turn will inhibit cement hydration (particularly with
Blue Circle General Purpose Cement and Blue Circle Mastercrete which
are relatively slow setting) and cause a significant reduction in both the
bond and the strength of the scratchcoat and/or spattercoat. Excessive
suction can usually be prevented by dampening the surface of the
substrate before applying the scratchcoat.

PAGE 23
RENDERING PART 3

2.2 The Render Mix

The first point to consider is: What type of cement do I have?

• B
 lue Circle Procem:
A Portland cement of strength class 52,5N (CEM I 52,5N).

• B
 lue Circle Mastercrete:
A Portland-limestone cement of strength class 32,5R
(CEM II/A-L (or LL) 32,5R).

• B
 lue Circle General Purpose Cement:
A Portland-fly ash cement of strength class 32,5R (CEM
II/B-V 32,5R) or Portland-limestone cement of strength
class 32,5R (CEM II/A-L (or LL) 32,5R).

• B
 lue Circle Snowcrete:
A White Portland cement of strength class 52,5N
(CEM I 52,5N).

Check the colour coding of the bag and the cement type (on the CE Panel
on the front of the bag) before use.
The traditional mix proportions for render are given in Table 6, below.

TABLE 6: TRADITIONAL MIX PROPORTIONS

FOR RENDER
Cement: Hydrated Lime:
Designation Cement: Sand (plasticised) Sand
i 1:3 1 :  1/4  :  3
ii 1 : 3-4 1 :  1/2  : 4-4 1/2
iii 1 : 5-6 1 : 1 : 5-6
iv 1 : 7-8 1 : 2 : 8-9
v - 1 : 3 : 10-12

The same proportions can be used for all the Blue Circle cement products
listed above.
Note: Tarmac Cement and Lime supplies Hydrated Lime under the Blue
Circle Hydralime brand name.

The Choice of sand is also an important factor in successful

rendering, whatever type of cement is used. Clean sharp sand is
generally preferred for the scratchcoat, and a ‘rendering sand’ based
on a mix of building sand and sharp sand is often used for the
topcoat. Sand containing high levels of clay must be avoided as this
results in high shrinkage, leading to cracking and crazing of the render
as well as reduced bond between coats.

PAGE 24
RENDERING PART 3

There are also large numbers of proprietary admixtures (plasticisers)

on the market, but not all of them will be compatible with all cement
types. The admixture packaging should be examined for indications
of compatibility with different cement types. In case of doubt, always
consult the admixture supplier and/or carry out trial mixes.
As Blue Circle Mastercrete is already air entrained, we would recommend
that an air-entraining plasticiser is not normally necessary with this
product or, if used, it should be used at a reduced dosage. Once again trial
mixes should be carried out to determine optimum plasticiser dosage.

2.3 Batching
Correct selection of mix proportions and batching are key to successful
use of all cement-based materials.
Render is traditionally batched by volume. When batching by volume, the
use of ‘batch boxes’ or buckets is preferred to batching ‘by the shovel’ as it
gives better control over the final mix proportions.

2.4 Mixing
For optimum performance, it is important that all the constituents are
thoroughly and uniformly mixed together. Mixing using a mechanical
mixer is generally preferred to hand mixing as it gives a more uniform mix.
Always use the minimum quantity of clean potable water needed to
achieve the desired workability or consistency.
If mixing by hand, mixing should take place on a clean hard surface (wood
or metal). It is important that water is contained in the mix as it will carry
cement with it if it spills over, and reduce the final strength of the mix.

2.5 Render Application

The need to understand the nature of the substrate and its suction was
highlighted in section 2.1 and the typical suitability of different render
designations is shown in Table 7, below. Typically the same cement type
would be used for both the scratchcoat and the topcoat.

TABLE 7: TYPICAL SUITABILITY OF DIFFERENT

RENDER DESIGNATIONS
Render Designation Render Characteristics Typical Substrates
i Strong, relatively Engineering bricks,
impermeable with high In-situ concrete,
drying shrinkage Dense concrete blocks
ii Moderately strong Calcium silicate brinks,
some facing bricks
iii Medium strength with Lightweight aggregate
greater permeability than blocks, some common
Designation, but less bricks, Aerated
likely to craze and crack concrete blocks
iv Moderately low strength Aerated concrete blocks,
some softer bricks
v Low strength Weak materials in
sheltered locations

PAGE 25
RENDERING PART 3

2.5.1 Spattercoat/Scratchcoat
Slower setting cements such as Blue Circle General Purpose Cement and
Blue Circle Mastercrete in particular, require effective control of the
suction from the substrate in order that the spattercoat/scratch coat
bonds effectively to the substrate.
Once the scratchcoat is applied (and mechanically keyed to receive
the topcoat), it must be promptly and effectively cured. A strong key
('wavy line') is preferred, but it should not penetrate right through to the
substrate. Curing is the prevention of excessive water loss from the render
to its surroundings and to the atmosphere. If water is lost from the render
at an early age, the continued hydration and strength development of the
render is impaired. It is inadvisable to apply render in full sun. Suitable
curing techniques include:
• Covering the exposed surfaces with polythene sheeting.
• Covering the exposed surfaces with wet hessian (sacking).
The sacking should be maintained in a continuously damp condition.
• Keeping exposed surfaces damp by using a water mist spray.

Whichever method of curing is used, it should be kept in place for at

least 7 days before applying the next coat.

The early-age strength development of the different Blue Circle products

is typically (fastest first):
Blue Circle Snowcrete > Blue Circle Procem > Blue Circle Mastercrete >
Blue Circle General Purpose Cement
Consequently, render scratchcoats containing Blue Circle Mastercrete or
Blue Circle General Purpose Cement will require more curing time in order
to develop sufficient strength to support the topcoat than renders based
on Blue Circle Snowcrete or Blue Circle Procem.

2.5.2 Topcoat/Finishcoat
Once the scratchcoat has been properly cured, the topcoat or finishcoat
can be applied. Good practice is that the topcoat should be weaker (higher
designation number) or thinner than the scratchcoat, or possibly both.
Again, any potential suction between the scratchcoat and the topcoat
must be controlled. The use of fibre mesh over joints and lintels etc will
reduce the risk of cracking in these areas.
When the topcoat has been applied and finished, using pressure to push
the topcoat into the keyed scratchcoat, curing measures should be put
in place promptly, using one of the methods described above. The curing
should remain in place for at least 3 days (and longer if practical) in order
to prevent surface crazing or dusting.

3. Summary
Although this leaflet is not a comprehensive or definitive guide to rendering,
it does provide guidance on how best to ensure a successful rendering job
using Blue Circle packed cements. It is particularly important to recognise
the different characteristics of the different products and to appreciate the
critical role of curing in developing optimum cement performance.
Further information can be obtained from codes and standards, Tarmac
technical literature or from the Tarmac Cement Technical Helpline
(0845 812 6232 or [email protected]).

PAGE 26
FLOOR SCREEDS PART 4

TABLE 8: CEMENTS FOR FLOOR SCREEDS

For improved workability

Blue Circle Cement Product For general use

Blue Circle Mastercrete p.37 4

Blue Circle Procem p.37 4

Blue Circle General Purpose Cement p.38 4

Blue Circle Sulfacrete p.39

Blue Circle Snowcrete p.39

4 Recommended

GENERAL INTRODUCTION
A floor screed is a layer of mortar consisting of Portland cement and clean
sharp concreting sand laid on a prepared concrete base slab. Alternatively,
a 10mm aggregate concrete may be used. Both types are not intended to
act as a wearing surface, but floated or trowelled smooth to provide a
suitable surface to take a floor covering or other type of surface finish.
This section describes floor screeds mixed on site using Blue Circle
cements in bags.

Aspects to consider prior to starting work

The method of floor construction and the condition of the concrete slab
at the time of laying the screed will determine the type of screed to be
used. There are 3 types of screed.

PAGE 27
FLOOR SCREEDS PART 4

BONDED SCREED
The screed is bonded to the exposed aggregate surface of the concrete
base slab. The method of aggregate exposure will depend on the
condition of the slab:

Screed laid on a newly cured concrete floor

A key is provided by mechanically roughening the concrete slab by shot
blasting, scabbling or grinding. The screed thickness should be 20mm to
40mm.

Screed laid on a ‘green’ concrete floor

A key is provided by brushing the surface, just after it has stiffened, to
remove laitance/excess water. This results in a fully monolithic bonding
of the screed to the concrete floor slab within 3 hours (the screed is
physically part of the slab). A screed thickness of 12mm will be sufficient.
The risk of curling, hollowness and cracking is minimised when both
variations of the bonded screed are used.

Unbonded screed
An unbonded screed is used when the concrete slab cannot be prepared
to provide a good key or the screed is laid onto a damp proof membrane.
The minimum thickness should be 50mm.
With this type of screed there is a risk of concrete curling and hollowness,
as the poorly prepared concrete base or damp proof membrane prevents
bonding. This curling may be minimised by increasing the thickness to
100mm and using a 10mm aggregate.

Floating screed
The screed is laid on a resilient layer of insulating material. The minimum
screed thickness should be 65mm, but increased to 75mm if heating cables
are incorporated.
There is a risk of some curling at joints which can be minimised by
increasing the thickness to 100mm and using a 10mm aggregate. A light
structural mesh reinforcement may reduce shrinkage cracking but not
necessarily prevent curling.

Bonded Unbonded Floating

PAGE 28
FLOOR SCREEDS PART 4

ADVICE ON RECOMMENDED MIXES

Table 9, below indicates recommended floor screed mixes,
and is followed by information on the materials that may
be used. For the greatest accuracy, sand should be batched
by weight. However, if equipment for weigh batching is not
available, then volume batching with whole bags of cement
should be used. Sand must be measured in a container having
a known volume (eg, box, bucket or wheelbarrow) to maintain
a consistent and accurate mix.

TABLE 9: MIXES SUITABLE FOR SCREEDS

Screed Mix Proportions

By weight By volume

Floor or Finish Cement : sand Cement Damp sand

Thin or flexible (eg,
PVC tiles or carpet) 1 : 3 25 kg 0.06m3

Thick or rigid (eg,

concrete or quarry
tiles) 1 : 4 25 kg 0.08m3
Portland Cement = • Blue Circle Mastercrete • Blue Circle Procem
• Blue Circle General Purpose Cement
• Blue Circle Sulfacrete • Blue Circle Snowcrete

For damp sand a 20% allowance has been made for bulking.

Materials to use
Cements: Refer to application Table 8 (page 27) and the appropriate
product range pages.
Sand: Clean sharp concreting sand to BS 8204–1: 2002.
Water: Only clean mains water should be used.

PAGE 29
FLOOR SCREEDS PART 4

QUANTITIES
Table 10, below indicates the quantities required for the
recommended mixes set out in Table 9 (page 29). In addition,
Table 10 also provides quantities for a 10mm aggregate
concrete screed mix based on 1 part cement to 1½ parts
concreting sand to 3 parts aggregate.
All quantities in Table 10 are approximate and no allowance
has been made for wastage. Sand is assumed to be damp and
a 20% allowance has been made for bulking.

TABLE 10: QUANTITIES OF MATERIALS

10mm aggregate
Cement : sand screed mortar concrete screed
1 : 3 (by wt) 1 :  4 (by wt)
1 : 2.6 (by vol) 1 : 3.5 (by vol) 1 : 1½ : 3 (by vol)

For a 25 kg bag 80 kg sand or 150 kg sand or 0.035m3 sand

of cement, use: 0.06m3 sand 0.08m3 sand + 0.06m3 aggregate
14 bags of cement
For 1m3 of 18 bags of cement 16 bags of cement + 0.5m3 sand
screed, use: + 1.1m sand
3
+ 1.2m sand
3
+ 0.75m3 aggregate

Note: 1m3 of screed is approximately equivalent to any of the following:

• 40mm thick screed over an area of 25m2.
• 60mm thick screed over an area of 17m2.
• 80mm thick screed over an area of 12m2.
• 100mm thick screed over an area of 10m2.

PAGE 30
FLOOR SCREEDS PART 4

HOW TO MIX SCREEDS

The sand, cement and water should be mixed thoroughly in a
forced action, mechanical mixer. The sand should be placed in
the mixer first, then the cement and then sufficient water to
give the required consistency.
Just sufficient water must be used to enable the cement and
sand to be thoroughly mixed and to allow the screed to be
fully compacted over its full depth. A screed which is too dry
cannot be fully compacted, and a screed which is too wet
will lead to difficulty in controlling screed levels.
The consistency can be judged by a simple test of pressing
a ball of mixed screed in a gloved hand. It should be moist
enough for the ball to hold together and not too dry so that
it crumbles.
Hand mixing is not generally recommended as the end result
is not consistent. If hand mixing has to be used then the
materials should be mixed at least 3 times in the dry state to
ensure thorough mixing.
For 10mm aggregate concrete the mix and water content
should be normal for concrete, ie, the mix will be wetter than
the screed mix.

HOW TO PLACE AND COMPACT SCREEDS

General
Lay screeds in strips about 3 or 4 metres wide. The length of
the bay is not important and is only limited by convenience
or room size. Vertical butt joints should be made between
strips and at stop ends.
Use rectangular timber screed battens, set at the correct level,
to rule off the screed. ‘Wet screeds’, ie, bands of fresh screed
set to levels, are equally acceptable.
Bonded screed
The following procedure is recommended:
• M
 echanically roughen the base concrete by shot blasting,
scrabbling or grinding to expose the aggregate and to give
a good key.
• C
 lean the roughened concrete thoroughly with an
industrial vacuum cleaner. Simply brushing the floor may
result in dust resettling on the floor.

PAGE 31
FLOOR SCREEDS PART 4

• S oak the concrete base with water for several hours, but
preferably overnight.
• R
 emove any excess water before starting to lay the screed.
• S crub a cement grout of creamy consistency into the base
concrete. It is vitally important that the grouted area is not
left uncovered for more than 20 minutes (10 minutes or less
in hot weather or heated buildings) otherwise the grout
will set and lose its bonding power. For this reason do not
grout too far ahead of screed laying. PVA or SBR based
bonding agents should be used strictly in accordance with
the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Immediately spread the screed over the grout to a level
10mm above the level of the finished screed. Heavily tamp
down the screed using a hand rammer, roller or plate
vibrator to ensure full compaction.
• R
 ule off excess compacted material to the set levels. Fill in
any low areas, compact and rule off again.
• If screeding battens have been used to set levels, do not
remove the battens until at least 24 hours after the first
areas of screed have been laid.
• F inish with a wood float or steel trowel according to the
required finish.
• A
 smooth, dense surface obtained with a steel trowel may
be required for many floor finishes.
• A
 void over-trowelling as this will bring fine sand and
cement to the surface, where on drying out may craze
and dust.
Unbonded and floating screeds
The procedures are the same as for bonded screeds except
that the base concrete is not roughened or grouted.
Take care not to damage dpcs or insulating layers whilst laying
or compacting the floor screed.
Waterproof building paper should be laid over porous types
of insulation to ensure that the screed mix does not penetrate
the pores.

PAGE 32
FLOOR SCREEDS PART 4

If the quality of a concrete floor is unknown (eg, during

refurbishment work), or the concrete is judged to be of
weaker strength than the screed, the best procedure will be
to install a membrane and create an unbonded screed.

HOW TO CURE AND PROTECT SCREEDS

The following procedure is recommended to prevent the
screed from premature drying:
• N
 ewly laid screeds should be cured under polythene
sheeting for at least 7 days.
• S creeds should then be allowed to dry out as naturally and
slowly as possible.
• R
 apid drying out will increase the risk of cracking and
curling.
• W
 ork should be scheduled so that the screeds are
protected from foot traffic for as long as possible.
• T
 he floor finish should not be laid until moisture in the
screed has largely evaporated. Damp screeds will cause the
early failure of floor finishes or their adhesives.
• A
 rough guide to drying out is one month for each 25mm
of screed depth. Test with a hydrometer to ensure the
vapour pressure is less than 75% before the flooring finish is
laid (such as vinyl tiles, lino, carpet, etc).
Inclement weather precautions may need to be followed
during the carrying out of the work:
• C
 over sand, aggregates and cement to protect them
from frost.
• K
 eep the mixer and other handling equipment free
from frost.
• D
 o not mix or lay the screed when the air temperature is
below 5°C or is expected to be during these operations.

PAGE 33
FLOOR SCREEDS PART 4

Concrete slab being scabbled Setting the correct screed level

Laying Compacting with a punner

Wood float finish Curing

Tools
Forced
action
mixer
Scabbler

Trowel

Punner
Level
Float

Rule or straight edge

PAGE 34
PRODUCT RANGE PART 5

INTRODUCING NEW BLUE CIRCLE CEMENTS,

GEARED TO THE SPECIFIC NEEDS OF THE END USER

Blue Circle cements offer builders an unparalleled

range of conveniently packaged cement-based
products, available from builders’ merchants
throughout the UK. These include packed cements
and premixed products in tear and weather
resistant plastic packaging and tubs for ultimate
convenience and avoidance of waste.
Full details of the unparalleled range of Blue
Circle cement-based products for the end user are
covered in the following pages.

PAGE 35
PRODUCT RANGE PART 5

BLUE CIRCLE PRODUCT IN TUBS

Some ready-to-use mortars and concretes are available in
resealable plastic tubs, ideal for smaller scale jobs. Just use
the quantity of material required, then reseal the tub for later
use. Prevents wastage and spoilt product.

PAGE 36
PRODUCT RANGE PART 5

BLUE CIRCLE MASTERCRETE

The ultimate professional solution An
multipurpose enhanced cement with
additives – perfect for concrete, rendering,
mortars and screeds.

Characteristics and benefits

• E nhanced resistance to freeze/thaw attack.
• L ower water demand.
• A more cohesive mix.
• E asier to compact, spread and finish.
• L ess tendency for water to segregate and bleed.
• T ear and weather resistant plastic packaging.
Availability
25 kg plastic bags throughout the UK.

BLUE CIRCLE PROCEM

Perfect for structural applications
A packed Portland cement that is ideal for
applications such as structural concrete,
piling and screeds.

Characteristics and benefits

• C
 onsistent strength and performance.
• C
 ompatible with admixtures such as air-entraining agents
and workability aids, with cement replacement materials
such as fly-ash and ground granulated blastfurnace slag,
and with pigments. Trial mixes are recommended to
determine the optimum mix proportions.
Availability
25 kg bags throughout the UK.

PAGE 37
PRODUCT RANGE PART 5

BLUE CIRCLE GENERAL

PURPOSE CEMENT
The ideal general purpose cement
A range of cements offering exceptional
performance across a wide range of standard
uses – including concrete, mortar, rendering
and screeds. Ideal for many different
applications from small DIY jobs to the
largest projects.

Characteristics and benefits

• C
 onsistent strength and performance.
• C
 ompatible with admixtures such as air-entraining agents,
workability aids and pigments.
Availability
25 kg bags throughout the UK.

BLUE CIRCLE
EXTRA RAPID
With rapid hardening and setting
properties, making it suitable for repairs
and maintenance work.
Tubs also available.

Characteristics and benefits

• F or repair and maintenance where rapid setting and
hardening is required, eg, fence posts, setting manholes,
repairs to paths and steps.
• T akes foot traffic in 4-6 hours and vehicular traffic in
8-12 hours.
• T ear and weather resistant plastic packaging.
Availability
25 kg plastic bags and tubs throughout the UK.

PAGE 38
PRODUCT RANGE PART 5

BLUE CIRCLE SULFACRETE

A low alkali cement with a high sulfate
resistance and a moderate heat of hydration.

Characteristics and benefits

• R
 educes damage to concrete, mortar and grout exposed
to sulfate attack.
• M
 inimises the risk of alkali silica reaction.
• R
 educes the thermally-induced stresses in large
concrete pours.
Availability
25 kg bags throughout the UK.

BLUE CIRCLE SNOWCRETE

Blue Circle Snowcrete is a white Portland
cement, without pigments or additives, for
concretes intended to remain visible; also
rendering, mortars and grouts.

Characteristics and benefits

• P roduces a wide variety of white and coloured finishes
when combined with selected aggregates or with BS EN
12878 pigments.
• W
 ide application including structural in situ and precast
concrete, cast stone, rendering, pointing mortars, tile
grouts, terrazzo, street furniture.
• R
 equires white aggregates for a white finish.
• T
 rial mixes should be made to test for desired colour.
Availability
25 kg bags throughout the UK.

PAGE 39
PRODUCT RANGE PART 5

BLUE CIRCLE HYDRALIME

A high calcium, non-hydraulic, hydrated lime
for use with Portland cement, mortars and
rendering.

Characteristics and benefits

• G
 ives excellent plasticity, cohesiveness and water retention
to Portland cement mortars and rendering.
• P articularly useful in areas with poor sand quality.
Availability
25 kg bags throughout the UK.

BLUE CIRCLE LIMELITE NATURAL

HYDRAULIC LIME
A range of Natural Hydraulic Limes
conforming to EN 459-1

Characteristics and benefits

• C ontains no additives.
• F or use in rendering, mortar jointing and pointing.
• Ideal for repair work to older buildings.
Availability
25 kg bags throughout the UK.

PAGE 40
PRODUCT RANGE PART 5

BLUE CIRCLE POSTCRETE

Blue Circle Postcrete is a rapid-setting
blended mix of cement, silicates and
hardeners specifically designed for fixing
wooden, concrete and metal posts in all
types of soil.

Characteristics and benefits

• It is used without any form of mixing and is simple to apply
and use. Just add to water.
• S ets in ten minutes.
• T
 ear and weather resistant plastic packaging.
Availability
Weatherproof plastic bags throughout the UK.

BLUE CIRCLE SLABLAYER

Blue Circle Slablayer is a cement-based
material containing specially selected sand
and cement for use under patio paving slabs.

Characteristics and benefits

• It is easy to use and requires no mixing and gradually over a
period of time develops hardness to support the slabs.
• Just sprinkle with water and lay slabs.
• T
 ear and weather resistant plastic packaging.
Availability
Weatherproof plastic bags throughout the UK.

PAGE 41
PRODUCT RANGE PART 5

BLUE CIRCLE MORTAR MIX

A Designation III, premixed, quality
assured mortar comprising cement,
specially graded sand, lime and
admixtures. For professional bricklayers
seeking speed and convenience with no
compromise on quality. Not for use in
high sulfate conditions.

Characteristics and benefits

• R
 eady to use, just add water.
• H
 ighly workable, long board life.
• A
 lso ideal for pointing and gable ends.
• T
 ear and weather resistant plastic packaging.
Availability
Weatherproof plastic bags and tubs throughout the UK.

BLUE CIRCLE HIGH STRENGTH

CONCRETE (40N)
A premixed strong and hardwearing concrete
that typically achieves a 28-day compressive
strength of 40 N/mm2.

Characteristics and benefits

• H
 igh strength - suitable for structural concrete, bedding
manholes, driveways and other heavy-duty applications.
• P remixed ready to use, just add clean water.
• T
 ear and weather resistant plastic packaging.
Availability
Weatherproof plastic bags throughout the UK.

PAGE 42
PRODUCT RANGE PART 5

BLUE CIRCLE MULTI-

PURPOSE CONCRETE
A premixed concrete manufactured
from cement and specially selected and
graded sand, and 10 mm coarse aggregate
for general concreting applications.

Characteristics and benefits

• S uitable for all small concrete jobs.
• P remixed ready to use, just add clean water.
• T
 ear and weather resistant plastic packaging.
Availability
Weatherproof plastic bags and tubs throughout the UK.

BLUE CIRCLE QUICKSET

CONCRETE
A premixed quick-setting concrete
manufactured from cement, specially
selected sand and admixtures.

Characteristics and benefits

• Ideal for any repairs to concretes where rapid setting and
hardening is required.
• Just sprinkle with clean water.
• S ets within approximately 30 minutes.
• Use to max depth of 50mm.
• T
 ear and weather resistant plastic packaging.
Availability
Weatherproof plastic bags throughout the UK.

PAGE 43
PRODUCT RANGE PART 5

BLUE CIRCLE REPAIR

CONCRETE
A premixed concrete suitable for general
repairs up to a depth of 50mm.

Characteristics and benefits

• S uitable for all small concrete repair jobs.
• P remixed ready to use, only requires sprinkling with
clean water.
• U
 se to a maximum depth of 50mm and up to an area
of 2 m².
• T
 ear and weather resistant plastic packaging.
Availability
Weatherproof plastic bags and tubs throughout the UK.

PAGE 44
READY-TO-USE PART 6

GENERAL INTRODUCTION
The Blue Circle packed product range includes premixed
ready-to-use cements and concretes formulated specifically
to help the builder save time on small-scale jobs.

PREMIXED MORTARS
Blue Circle Quality Assured Mortar Mix
A ready-to-use mortar that is suitable for most brick
and block applications, and requires only the addition of
clean water.
Ready-to-Use products are supplied in tear and weather
resistant plastic packaging.

PREMIXED CONCRETES
Blue Circle High Strength Concrete (40N)
A premixed strong and hardwearing concrete that typically
achieves a 28-day compressive strength of 40 N/mm2.
Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Concrete
A premixed concrete manufactured from cement and
specially selected and graded sand, and 10 mm coarse
aggregate for general concreting applications.
Blue Circle Quickset Concrete
A premixed quick-setting concrete manufactured from
cement, specially selected sand and admixtures.
Blue Circle Repair Concrete
A premixed concrete suitable for general repairs up to a
depth of 50mm.
Blue Circle Postcrete
A rapid setting blend of cement, silicates and hardeners for
fixing all kinds of posts into the ground. No mixing is required.
Blue Circle Slablayer
A blend of cement and specially selected sand for use under
patio slabs to provide a level surface.

PAGE 45
READY-TO-USE PART 6

BLUE CIRCLE POSTCRETE

Uses
For fixing all types of wood, metal and concrete posts into soil.
Description
Blue Circle Postcrete is ready to use. No mixing is required.
Packaging
Blue Circle Postcrete is supplied in tear and weather-resistant plastic
packaging.
• B
 lue Circle Postcrete is a cement-based material and should be handled
and stored with care.
• Storage temperatures should be above 3˚C and below 30˚C.
Sitework
For best results follow these instructions:
1) Dig hole to correct depth and width relevant to post size.
2) Fill hole between a third and halfway with water. Place post in hole.
3) Pour in Blue Circle Postcrete evenly around post up to water surface.
Sprinkle water on top of any visible powder.
4) Position and level post as required. Setting will take place in 5 to 10
minutes.
5) When set, cover top of hole with soil or grass.
Do not mix Blue Circle Postcrete with water by hand or machine.
Please consult table 11 (page 47) for guidance on the quantity of Blue
Circle Postcrete to use.

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

Step 4 Step 5

Cleaning
All equipment should be cleaned with water. Do not flush down drains.
Availability
Blue Circle Postcrete is available in weatherproof plastic bags at Blue
Circle Cement UK stockists.
Bags are delivered on pallets,1.2 x 1.0m, 70 bags per pallet.
A full pallet weighs 1.4 tonnes.

PAGE 46
READY-TO-USE PART 6

BLUE CIRCLE POSTCRETE

TABLE 11: HOW MUCH BLUE CIRCLE POSTCRETE
WILL I NEED?
Hole size Number of bags
Post size (width x depth) required
Round 5cm 15cm (6”) x 30cm (12”) 1/3 bag
(2”) 15cm (6”) x 45cm (18”) 1/2 bag
15cm (6”) x 60cm (24”) 3/4 bag
20cm (8”) x 30cm (12”) 2/3 bag
20cm (8”) x 45cm (18”) 1 bag
20cm (8”) x 60cm (24”) 11/2 bag
15cm (6”) x 45cm (18”) 1/3 bag
Round 7.5cm
(3”) 15cm (6”) x 60cm (24”) 1/2 bag
15cm (6”) x 75cm (30”) 3/4 bag
20cm (8”) x 45cm (18”) 3/4 bag
20cm (8”) x 60cm (24”) 1 bag
20cm (8”) x 75cm (30”) 11/2 bag
25cm (10”) x 45cm (18”) 1 1/2 bag
25cm (10”) x 60cm (24”) 2 bag
25cm (10”) x 75cm (30”) 21/2 bag
30cm (12”) x 45cm (18”) 2 1/4 bag
30cm (12”) x 60cm (24”) 3 bag
30cm (12”) x 75cm (30”) 33/4 bag
15cm (6”) x 45cm (18”) 1/4 bag
Round 10cm
(33/4”) 15cm (6”) x 60cm (24”) 1/3 bag
15cm (6”) x 75cm (30”) 1/2 bag
20cm (8”) x 45cm (18”) 2/3 bag
20cm (8”) x 60cm (24”) 3/4 bag
20cm (8”) x 75cm (30”) 1 bag
25cm (10”) x 45cm (18”) 1 1/2 bag
25cm (10”) x 60cm (24”) 13/4 bag
25cm (10”) x 75cm (30”) 2 bag
30cm (12”) x 45cm (18”) 2 bag
30cm (12”) x 60cm (24”) 23/4 bag
30cm (12”) x 75cm (30”) 31/2 bag

Note: The recommended depth of hole depends on the height of the

post, the load it will support and the soil condition. As a guide, a 3” square
post 5 ft high should be placed 18” deep in heavy soil or 24” in light soil or
an exposed position.

PAGE 47
READY-TO-USE PART 6

BLUE CIRCLE SLABLAYER

Uses
Blue Circle Slablayer can be used under most types of patio slabs to
provide a level surface.
Description
Blue Circle Slablayer consists of cement and selected aggregates.
Packaging
Blue Circle Slablayer is supplied in tear and weather-resistant plastic
packaging.
• Blue Circle Slablayer is a cement-based material and should be handled
and stored with care.
• Storage temperatures should be above 5˚C and below 30˚C.
Sitework
For best results follow these instructions:
1) Prepare the area to the required depth. Remove turf and any other
material which will interfere with the surface being flat and level.
2) Place Blue Circle Slablayer to the required depth (optimum 25 mm),
and rake level. Sprinkle with water using a fine rose until the Blue Circle
Slablayer is wet through and rake level again.
3) Place the paving slabs ensuring they are level and flat.
4) Ensure that no cement material is on the slabs as this will result in staining.

Step 1 Step 2

Step 3 Step 4
Cleaning
All equipment should be cleaned with water. Do not flush down drains.
Coverage
This will depend on the depth of material used but as a guide three
440 mm x 440 mm paving slabs can be laid with one bag when the Blue
Circle Slablayer is used at 25 mm thick.
Availability
Blue Circle Slablayer is available in weatherproof plastic bags at Tarmac
Cement UK stockists.
Bags are delivered on pallets, 1.2 x 1.0 m, 70 bags per pallet.
A full pallet weighs 1.4 tonnes.

PAGE 48
READY-TO-USE PART 6

BLUE CIRCLE QUALITY ASSURED

MORTAR MIX
Uses
For most general-purpose brickwork, but not if sulfate conditions are
present.
Description
Blue Circle Quality Assured Mortar Mix comprises a blend of selected
sand, lime, cement and admixtures. (Designation iii, 1:1:6 equivalent, M4
Mortar).
Packaging
Blue Circle Quality Assured Mortar is supplied in tear and weather-
resistant plastic packaging.
Sitework
For best results follow these instructions:
Preferably mix by machine until required workability and consistency is
achieved. This can be normally obtained by the addition of 4 litres of
water per bag and a machine mixing time of approximately 3-5 minutes.
The use of additional cement, sand, lime or admixtures is not
recommended.
Only mix enough material for a maximum of 2 hours usage and do not
retemper after setting.
Cleaning
All equipment should be cleaned with water. Do not flush down drains.
Availability
Blue Circle Quality Assured Mortar Mix is available in weatherproof plastic
bags at Blue Circle Cement UK stockists.

PAGE 49
HEALTH & SAFETY PART 7

FIRST AID TREATMENT

Eye Contact
• W
 ash eyes immediately with clean water for at least 15 minutes and
seek medical advice without delay.
Skin Contact
• W
 ash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. If skin
irritation, or pain continues, seek medical advice.
• C
 lothing contaminated by wet cement, concrete or mortar should be
removed and washed thoroughly before re-use.
Ingestion
• D
 o not induce vomiting. Wash out mouth with water and give patient
plenty of water to drink.
Inhalation
• If irritation occurs, move patient to fresh air. If nose or airways become
inflamed seek medical advice.

STORAGE AND HANDLING

Storage
• Bags should be stacked in a safe and stable manner.
Handling
• W
 hen handling cement bags, due regard should be paid to the risks
outlined in the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992.
• S ome bags may have a small amount of cement on the outer surface.
Appropriate personal protective clothing (see below) should therefore
be used whilst handling.

EXPOSURE CONTROLS
Occupational Exposure Standard (OES)
• Total inhalable dust 10 mg/m3 8 hrTWA.
• Respirable dust 4 mg/m3 8 hrTWA.
where TWA = Time Weighted Average.
Engineering measures
 here reasonably practicable, dust exposures should be controlled by
• W
engineering methods.
Note: For further reading refer to the relevant Tarmac Cement Health &
Safety Information Sheet.

RECOMMENDED PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Respiratory Protection
• S uitable respiratory protection should be worn to ensure that personal
exposure is less than the OES.
Hand and Skin Protection
• P rotective clothing should be worn which ensures that cement, or any
cement/water mixture, eg concrete or mortar, does not come into
contact with the skin.

PAGE 50
HEALTH & SAFETY PART 7

• In some circumstances such as when laying concrete, waterproof

gloves, waterproof trousers and wellingtons may be necessary.
• Particular care should be taken to ensure that wet concrete does not
enter the boots and persons do not kneel on the wet concrete so as to
bring the wet concrete into contact with unprotected skin.
• Should wet mortar or wet concrete get inside boots, gloves or other
protective clothing then this protective clothing should be immediately
removed and the skin thoroughly washed as well as the protective
clothing/footwear.
Eye Protection
• Dust-proof goggles should be worn wherever there is a risk of cement
powder or any cement/water mixture entering the eye.

REGULATORY INFORMATION
Chemicals (Hazard Information & Packaging) Regulations 1999
• Classification – Irritant.
Risk Phrases
• Contact with wet cement, wet concrete or wet mortar may cause
irritation, dermatitis or burns.
• C
 ontact between cement powder and body fluids (eg, sweat and eye
fluids) may also cause irritation, dermatitis or burns.
• There is a risk of serious damage to eyes.
Safety Phrases
• W
 ear suitable protective clothing, gloves and eye/face protection.
• In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of clean
water and seek medical advice.
• After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of clean water.
• Keep out of reach of children.

FURTHER INFORMATION
Technical helpline: 0845 812 6232
Facsimile: 0845 812 6420
E-mail: [email protected]
Customer services: 0845 812 6300
Facsimile: 0845 812 6250
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.tarmac.com

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 Technical helpline: 0845 812 6232
Facsimile: 0845 812 6420
E-mail: [email protected]
Customer services: 0845 812 6300
Facsimile: 0845 812 6250
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.tarmac.com