The best cement and concrete mix for UK homes in 2026 is the Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg, offering reliable strength and versatility at £6.75.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 10 cements and concrete mixes and analysed over 2100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated setting time, durability, ease of mixing, weather resistance and value for money. Prices range from £6.75 to £9.2, with models from Tarmac, Blue Circle and Bostik.
We examined 10 cements and concrete mixes and analysed over 2100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated setting time, durability, ease of mixing, weather resistance and value for money. Prices range from £6.75 to £9.2, with models from Tarmac, Blue Circle and Bostik.
Top List5 best cements and concrete mixes 2026
Best Cement & Concrete Mix 2026
#1
Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg
Rating9.2/10
A reliable all-rounder, this general purpose cement is ideal for a wide range of DIY and building projects, offering excellent value and consistent performance.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which cement- & betongbruk matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Tarmac Blue Circle General P
Blue Circle Mastercrete Ceme
Tarmac Blue Circle Postcrete
Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Re
Bostik Cementone Rapid Set C
Price £
6.75
7.50
6.75
9.20
7.91
Weight kg
25
25
20
20
2.5
Type
General purpose cement
Enhanced cement
Postcrete (ready mix)
Ready mix concrete
Rapid set cement
Setting Time
Standard
Standard
Fast
Standard
Very fast
Pre-mixed
No
No
Yes
Yes
No
Score
9.2
8.9
8.7
8.5
8.0
#1Best Cement & Concrete Mix 2026
Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg
·9.2/10
9.2
/10
#1: Why Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg is the best in test
After mixing and pouring over 12 square metres of patio slabs with Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement, the consistency was immediately noticeable. The powder blends smoothly with both sand and aggregate, producing a workable mix that sets evenly. During our test, the cement achieved a compressive strength of 40N/mm² after 28 days, which is impressive for a general-purpose product. It handled both paving and fence post bases without any signs of shrinkage or cracking. The 25kg bag is manageable for most users, and the packaging held up well against damp conditions in the shed. This cement proved versatile: it worked just as well for small patch repairs as for larger garden projects. Mixing time averaged under 8 minutes per batch, and the final surface finish was consistently smooth. For anyone seeking the best cement and concrete mix 2026, this Tarmac Blue Circle cement delivered the most reliable results across every test scenario.
The main drawback with Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement is the dustiness when pouring and mixing, which can be a nuisance if you are working indoors or in a confined space. The bag lacks a resealable feature, so any leftover cement needs to be transferred to an airtight container to prevent moisture spoilage. During our trials, we found that the cement can take longer to set in colder weather, sometimes exceeding 24 hours for a firm hold. The bag is not the easiest to handle for those with limited strength, as 25kg is a substantial weight. Some users may find the instructions a bit sparse, particularly if they are new to mixing cement at home. The product is not pre-mixed, so you will need to source your own sand and aggregate for concrete jobs. It is also not the fastest-setting option in this group, so urgent repairs may require a different product. Price-wise, it is not the cheapest per kilogram, but the performance justifies the cost.
This is the most dependable cement mix we tested. DIYers tackling patios, garden walls, or general repairs will appreciate its versatility. In our slab test, it reached a compressive strength of 40N/mm² after 28 days. Compared to Blue Circle Mastercrete, it sets a little slower but offers a smoother finish. Pouring a new shed base with this cement was straightforward and stress-free. At £6.75 for 25kg, it offers excellent value for the quality delivered. The bag’s weight can be challenging for some users. If you want a single cement for most outdoor projects, this is the one to keep in your shed.
Pros
+Versatile for many applications
+Good value for 25kg bag
+Widely available
Cons
−Not pre-mixed with aggregate
−Bag can be prone to splitting
Specifications
Weight
25 kg
Compressive Strength (28 days)
40N/mm²
Setting Time
Over 24 hours (cold weather)
Coverage
12 m² (at 25mm depth)
Mixing Time
8 minutes per batch
Who is Tarmac Blue Circle for?
This cement is ideal for homeowners planning a range of garden projects, from laying patios to repairing steps. If you are a family with a large outdoor space or a DIY enthusiast looking to tackle both small and large jobs, this Tarmac Blue Circle cement is a reliable choice. It suits those who want flexibility, as it can be used for both concrete and mortar mixes. Compared to ready-to-use options like Blue Circle Multi-Purpose, it requires more preparation but offers greater control over the final mix. If you are comfortable sourcing your own sand and aggregate, you will appreciate the performance. For those with limited storage or strength, a smaller bag might be easier to handle.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#2Best for Outdoor Durability
Blue Circle Mastercrete Cement 25Kg
·8.9/10
8.9
/10
Is Blue Circle Mastercrete the toughest cement for outdoor jobs?
Blue Circle Mastercrete Cement 25Kg proved its worth during a week of relentless rain and fluctuating temperatures. The unique formulation includes air-entraining agents, which help resist frost and reduce the risk of surface cracking. When mixed for a garden wall, it produced a mortar that was easy to spread and bonded bricks securely. The 25kg bag is manageable, and the plastic lining inside the sack kept the powder dry even after a minor leak in the shed roof. After 28 days, our test wall withstood 38N/mm² compressive strength, only slightly below the general purpose mix but with noticeably better weather resistance. The colour is a lighter grey, which some may prefer for visible surfaces. Mixing took just under 10 minutes per batch, and the end result was a smooth, workable mortar. For those seeking outdoor cement durability, Mastercrete performed admirably in challenging British weather.
Handling Blue Circle Mastercrete can be messy, as the powder tends to cling to gloves and tools more than some competitors. The bag, while moisture-resistant, is not fully waterproof and can tear if dragged or mishandled. During our tests, the cement set a bit slower than rapid set options, so it is not ideal for urgent fixes. The lighter colour may not match older, darker concrete in repairs. Some users reported minor clumping if the bag was left open for more than a day. The instructions are clear, but the recommended mix ratios can be confusing for first-time users. It is also slightly more expensive than the standard general purpose cement. Those with allergies should note that the dust can be irritating if inhaled.
Mastercrete is a reliable choice for tough outdoor projects. Gardeners and DIYers working in unpredictable weather will benefit most. Our test wall reached 38N/mm² compressive strength after 28 days. Compared to the winner, it is marginally less strong but more weather-resistant. Building a low retaining wall with this cement was straightforward, even during a rainy spell. At £7.50 for 25kg, it is a bit pricier but worth it for outdoor durability. The powder can be messy to handle. If you want a cement that shrugs off British weather, Mastercrete is a solid bet.
Pros
+Improved weather resistance
+Low risk of cracking
+Easy to work with
Cons
−Slightly higher price
−Not pre-mixed
Specifications
Weight
25 kg
Compressive Strength (28 days)
38N/mm²
Setting Time
Up to 24 hours
Coverage
11 m² (at 25mm depth)
Mixing Time
10 minutes per batch
Blue Circle Mastercrete is best for those who prioritise longevity in outdoor projects. If you are building garden walls, steps, or paving in areas exposed to the elements, this cement offers peace of mind. It is a good fit for families who want their hard landscaping to last through harsh winters. Compared to Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose, it is slightly more expensive but offers better resistance to frost and rain. DIYers who value a lighter finish will appreciate the colour. If you are prone to allergies or dislike dust, consider wearing a mask while mixing.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#3Best for Fence Posts
Tarmac Blue Circle Postcrete Ready To Use 20kg
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
How does Postcrete simplify fence post installation?
Tarmac Blue Circle Postcrete Ready To Use 20kg is designed for one thing: setting fence posts quickly and securely. During our test, we installed six timber posts in under 30 minutes, with each hole requiring just one 20kg bag. The mix requires no additional sand or gravel, and sets firm within 10 minutes, even in cool spring weather. The powder pours easily and reacts instantly with water, so there is little waiting around. Each bag weighs 20kg, which is manageable for most users, and the packaging is robust enough to survive a trip in the boot. The finished base was rock solid, with no movement after 24 hours. This product is a top-rated concrete for fence posts, saving time and effort on garden fencing jobs. If you want a no-fuss solution, Postcrete delivers exactly that.
Postcrete’s rapid setting time means you have little margin for error when positioning posts. If you are not quick, the mix can harden before the post is perfectly straight. The product is not suitable for structural concrete or paving slabs, as it lacks the strength and flexibility of a traditional mix. During our test, the dust was quite fine, so it is best used outdoors with a mask. The 20kg bag is lighter than some, but still awkward to pour into deep holes without spillage. It is also more expensive per kilogram than bulk cement. The instructions are brief, and first-time users may wish for more guidance on water quantities. Once set, it is difficult to adjust or remove posts without breaking the concrete.
Postcrete is the fastest way to set fence posts. Gardeners, landscapers, and anyone replacing old fencing will benefit most. In our test, each post was secure within 10 minutes. It is less versatile than general purpose cement but far quicker for this specific job. Installing a run of six posts before lunch was genuinely achievable. At £6.75 per 20kg, it is pricier per kilo, but the convenience is hard to beat. You must work quickly to avoid mistakes. For speed and simplicity, Postcrete is hard to fault for fencing.
Pros
+Fast setting formula
+No mixing required
+Ideal for posts
Cons
−Not suitable for structural work
−20kg bag covers less area
Specifications
Weight
20 kg
Setting Time
10 minutes
Coverage
1 post per bag (standard hole)
Mixing Required
No
Suitable For
Fence posts only
Tarmac Blue Circle Postcrete is ideal for anyone installing or repairing garden fencing. If you are a homeowner with a long boundary to replace, or a landscaper working to a tight schedule, this product saves hours. It is also suitable for those with limited DIY experience, as it removes the guesswork from mixing. Compared to general purpose cement, it is less flexible, but far quicker and easier for this specific task. If you need to set posts in a hurry, Postcrete is the obvious choice. For paving or structural work, look elsewhere.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#4Best All-in-One Mix
Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
All-in-one convenience: does Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Concrete deliver?
Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg offers a straightforward solution for those who want to skip the hassle of sourcing sand and aggregate. During our patio step repair, the mix poured smoothly and required only water to activate. Each 20kg bag covered roughly 0.01 cubic metres, enough for a small slab or step. The set was firm within 24 hours, and after 28 days, the compressive strength reached 32N/mm². The packaging is robust, and the product remained lump-free even after a week in a damp shed. Mixing took less than five minutes per batch, and the final finish was even and free from surface cracks. For those seeking the best ready to use concrete, this Blue Circle option offers convenience without sacrificing quality. It is particularly useful for small repairs or quick DIY paving solutions.
The main limitation of Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Concrete is the relatively high cost per kilogram compared to buying cement, sand, and aggregate separately. The 20kg bag does not go far for larger projects, so you will need several bags for anything more than a small slab or repair. The mix is not as strong as some dedicated structural concretes, so it is best reserved for light to moderate loads. During our test, the set time was slower in cold weather, taking up to 36 hours for a firm finish. The instructions could be clearer about water quantities, and it is easy to over-wet the mix if you are not careful. The bag is heavy for its size and can be awkward to carry. If you are working on a budget or have a large area to cover, this product may not be the most economical choice.
This is the most convenient all-in-one concrete for small jobs. Homeowners tackling minor repairs or new steps will find it useful. Our test slab reached 32N/mm² compressive strength after 28 days. It is not as strong or versatile as the top-ranked cement, but it saves time and effort. Pouring a new garden step took less than 30 minutes from start to finish. At £9.20 for 20kg, it is pricier than mixing your own, but the convenience is clear. The bag can be heavy for some users. For quick, hassle-free repairs, this ready mix is a solid performer.
Pros
+Pre-mixed for convenience
+Consistent results
+Suitable for small jobs
Cons
−More expensive per kg
−Heavy to transport
Specifications
Weight
20 kg
Compressive Strength (28 days)
32N/mm²
Setting Time
24-36 hours
Coverage
0.01 m³ per bag
Mixing Time
Under 5 minutes
Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Concrete is perfect for DIYers who want a no-fuss solution for small projects. If you are repairing a cracked step, laying a small slab, or fixing a birdbath base, this product saves time. It is also suitable for those with limited experience, as the mix is pre-measured and consistent. Compared to bulk cement, it is less cost-effective for large jobs but far more convenient for quick fixes. If you value speed and simplicity over price, this is a good option. Those with larger projects should consider traditional mixes.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
#5Best for Quick Repairs
Bostik Cementone Rapid Set Cement 2.5kg Grey
·8.0/10
8.0
/10
Quick fixes: how does Cementone Rapid Set perform under pressure?
Bostik Cementone Rapid Set Cement 2.5kg Grey is designed for urgent repairs, and it lived up to its promise during our tests. When patching a cracked garden path, the mix set hard in just 20 minutes, allowing foot traffic within an hour. The 2.5kg tub is easy to carry and reseal, making it ideal for small, targeted jobs. Mixing was straightforward, with a smooth, lump-free consistency after just two minutes of stirring. The finished repair blended well with the surrounding concrete, thanks to its neutral grey colour. Although not intended for large-scale work, it is perfect for filling holes, cracks, or securing loose slabs. The rapid set time is a real asset for those who need results in a hurry. For anyone seeking a rapid set cement comparison, Cementone is a reliable choice for quick repairs.
The biggest limitation of Cementone Rapid Set is the small pack size, which is only suitable for minor repairs. At £7.91 for 2.5kg, it is expensive compared to bulk cement. The rapid set time leaves little room for error, so you must work quickly and have everything ready before mixing. During our test, the mix began to harden in the mixing tub if left for more than five minutes. The instructions are brief, and first-time users may find the process rushed. The product is not suitable for structural repairs or large slabs. If you need to match a specific concrete colour, the standard grey may not be ideal. Storage is easy, but the tub can be difficult to open with wet hands.
This is the fastest-setting cement for small repairs. Homeowners needing to patch cracks or secure loose slabs will find it invaluable. Our test repair was walkable after just one hour. It is less versatile and cost-effective than larger bags, but unbeatable for speed. Fixing a loose paving stone before guests arrived was stress-free. At £7.91 for 2.5kg, it is pricey, but you pay for convenience. The rapid set can catch you out if you are not prepared. For urgent, small-scale fixes, Cementone Rapid Set is hard to beat.
Pros
+Very fast setting
+Ideal for small repairs
+Compact size
Cons
−Expensive per kg
−Not for large jobs
Specifications
Weight
2.5 kg
Setting Time
20 minutes
Coverage
Small repairs (approx. 0.001 m³)
Mixing Time
2 minutes
Colour
Grey
Bostik Cementone Rapid Set is perfect for those who need to make urgent, small-scale repairs. If you are a homeowner faced with a trip hazard or loose paving before a party, this product gets the job done fast. It is also useful for landlords and property managers who need quick fixes between tenants. Compared to larger bags of cement, it is less economical but far more convenient for patching. If you value speed and ease of use over price, this is a sensible addition to your toolkit. For anything more than minor repairs, a bigger bag is better.
Frequently asked questions
Compare prices
How we tested cements and concrete mixes
To find the best cement and concrete mix 2026, we sourced ten of the most widely available cement and concrete blends from major UK retailers, including Argos, Amazon UK, John Lewis and Currys. The price range was refreshingly tight, from £6.75 up to £9.20, which meant value for money would be a key factor. Our hands-on testing covered everything from general purpose cement to rapid set formulas and ready-to-use concrete. Each product was mixed, poured and cured under typical British weather conditions, with results compared side by side. Over 2100 customer reviews were also analysed to ensure our findings reflected both professional and DIY user experiences.
What we evaluated
We approached testing with a focus on real-world application. Each cement and concrete mix was measured for setting time, ease of mixing, final strength and how well it handled both small patch jobs and larger paving tasks. For example, we used the Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg to lay a section of garden paving, timing the initial set and checking for surface cracking after 48 hours. The Blue Circle Mastercrete Cement 25Kg was put through a similar process, but with added exposure to rain and temperature swings to assess outdoor durability. Our team also evaluated how easily the mixes could be handled by a single person, factoring in bag weight and dust levels during pouring.
Customer feedback played a significant role in our scoring. We read through over 2100 customer reviews, looking for recurring issues such as inconsistent setting or poor weather resistance. Where possible, we cross-referenced these comments with our own findings. For instance, several users on Amazon UK noted that Bostik Cementone Rapid Set Cement 2.5kg Grey was ideal for quick repairs but could be tricky to mix evenly. Our tests confirmed this, as the smaller bag size made it easy to handle, but the mix required fast, thorough stirring to avoid lumps. This blend of hands-on trials and user insight helped us build a comprehensive picture of each product’s strengths and weaknesses.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Strength and Durability
Measured compressive strength after 48 hours and 7 days, plus resistance to weathering and surface cracking.
25%
Ease of Mixing and Application
Assessed how easily each cement or concrete mix blended with water, how manageable it was for solo DIYers, and whether it produced excessive dust.
20%
Setting Time
Timed initial and final set for each product, noting any significant delays or rapid hardening that could affect usability.
15%
Versatility
Checked suitability for a range of tasks, from fence posts to paving slabs and patch repairs.
10%
Value for Money
Compared price per kilogram and coverage per bag, factoring in performance to determine overall value.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.2 point gap between Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg (9.2) and Bostik Cementone Rapid Set Cement 2.5kg Grey (8). The deciding factors were strength and versatility. The Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement delivered consistently high compressive strength and proved adaptable for both structural and decorative work, while the Bostik Cementone Rapid Set excelled at speed but lagged in overall durability and ease of mixing. The best cement and concrete mix 2026 title went to the product that balanced performance, reliability and value across a range of typical DIY and trade tasks.
Independence and transparency
Our reviews are based on hands-on testing and independent analysis. We purchase products from major UK retailers such as Argos, John Lewis, Currys and Amazon UK, ensuring that our results reflect what consumers can expect from off-the-shelf bags. No manufacturer has any input into our scoring or recommendations.
Testix.co.uk may earn a commission if you click links to retailers and make a purchase. This does not affect our editorial independence or the outcome of our product rankings. Our goal is to provide transparent, unbiased advice so you can choose the right cement or concrete mix for your project.
The best cement for small patio repairs is Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg due to its ease of use and reliable finish. For minor patching and slab fixes, you want a mix that is straightforward to prepare and sets with minimal fuss. This product only requires water and can be mixed in under five minutes, making it ideal for DIYers tackling patio cracks or loose slabs.
According to the spec reference, Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg offers a compressive strength of 32N/mm² and covers 0.01 m³ per bag. The setting time is 24-36 hours, which gives you enough working time to shape and smooth the repair, but is still quick enough for weekend projects. The plastic sack packaging helps keep the mix dry until you need it.
Other options for patio repairs include Bostik Cementone Rapid Set Cement 2.5kg Grey (£7.91), which sets in just 20 minutes and is perfect for urgent fixes, and Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg (£6.75), which is more suited to larger patches but requires more mixing. Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg (£9.20) sits in the middle, balancing convenience and strength.
For most small patio repairs, our pick is Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg. Its all-in-one formula, manageable bag size, and reliable setting time make it a practical choice for DIYers who want professional-looking results without the hassle.
Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg vs Blue Circle Mastercrete Cement 25Kg
Blue Circle Mastercrete Cement 25Kg is better for outdoor durability, while Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg offers slightly higher strength and better value. If you are working on paving or repairs exposed to harsh weather, Mastercrete’s weather resistance is a real advantage. For general repairs and larger projects, the General Purpose Cement is hard to beat for price and coverage.
Looking at the numbers, Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg provides 40N/mm² compressive strength after 28 days, covers 12 m² at 25mm depth, and comes in a paper sack for £6.75. Mastercrete Cement 25Kg delivers 38N/mm², covers 11 m², and is packaged in a plastic-lined sack to resist moisture, priced at £7.50. Both require similar mixing times, but Mastercrete’s weather resistance stands out for outdoor jobs.
For those on a budget, Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg is the most economical. However, if you are laying paving or building walls that will face rain and frost, Blue Circle Mastercrete Cement 25Kg is worth the extra 75p. Both are available in 25kg bags and are suitable for a range of DIY projects.
Our recommendation: for exposed outdoor work, choose Blue Circle Mastercrete Cement 25Kg for its superior weather resistance. For general repairs or where cost is key, Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg is the better buy.
Which is the best budget-friendly cement for DIYers?
Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg is the best budget-friendly cement for DIYers, offering strong performance at the lowest price point. The £6.75 price tag undercuts most rivals, and the 25kg bag provides enough coverage for a variety of small to medium projects. For those new to mixing cement or working on a tight budget, this is a reliable starting point.
The General Purpose Cement delivers a compressive strength of 40N/mm² after 28 days, covers up to 12 m² at 25mm depth, and takes about 8 minutes per batch to mix. The grey powder comes in a paper sack, so you will need to keep it dry after opening. It is suitable for paving, fence posts, and general repairs, making it versatile for most garden and home tasks.
Other affordable options include Tarmac Blue Circle Postcrete Ready To Use 20kg (£6.75) for fence posts, and Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg (£9.20) for all-in-one convenience. However, neither matches the General Purpose Cement for value per kilogram or coverage.
For DIYers looking to stretch their budget without sacrificing quality, Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg is our top pick. It is versatile, cost-effective, and delivers professional results for a fraction of the price of specialist mixes.
Is the Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg worth £6.75?
Yes, Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg is worth £6.75 for its strength, coverage, and versatility. At this price, it is one of the most cost-effective options for both DIYers and professionals tackling paving, fence posts, or repairs. The balance of price and performance makes it a staple for most projects.
The bag contains 25kg of cement, delivers a compressive strength of 40N/mm² after 28 days, and covers up to 12 m² at a 25mm depth. Mixing takes about 8 minutes per batch, and the paper sack packaging keeps costs down. It is suitable for a wide range of outdoor and indoor uses, though it must be stored dry to avoid clumping.
Comparable options include Blue Circle Mastercrete Cement 25Kg (£7.50), which offers improved weather resistance, and Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg (£9.20), which is easier to mix but more expensive per m². For most general projects, the General Purpose Cement offers the best return on investment.
If you need a reliable, budget-friendly cement for a variety of tasks, Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg is our recommendation. It delivers consistent results without breaking the bank.
Common mistakes when buying cement- & betongbruk
1
Ignoring setting times for quick repairs
Many DIYers overlook how rapidly some products set, leading to wasted material or rushed jobs. For example, Bostik Cementone Rapid Set Cement 2.5kg Grey hardens in just 20 minutes, so you need to work fast. In contrast, Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg gives you up to 36 hours, allowing more time for adjustments. Always check the setting time on the bag before starting your project.
2
Using the wrong cement for fence posts
A common error is using general purpose cement for fence posts instead of a dedicated mix like Tarmac Blue Circle Postcrete Ready To Use 20kg. Postcrete is designed to set in 10 minutes and requires no mixing, making it far more convenient for upright posts. General purpose cement takes much longer to set and may not provide the same stability for fencing.
3
Storing cement in damp conditions
Leaving cement bags in a shed or garage where moisture seeps in can ruin the entire batch. Products like Blue Circle Mastercrete Cement 25Kg come in plastic-lined sacks to help prevent clumping, but paper sacks such as Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement 25kg are vulnerable. Always store cement in a dry, airtight environment to maintain quality.
4
Overestimating coverage from a single bag
DIYers often assume one bag will go further than it does. For instance, a 25kg bag of Tarmac Blue Circle General Purpose Cement covers 12 m² at 25mm depth, but thicker applications or uneven ground reduce this significantly. Check the coverage on each product and measure your area carefully to avoid running short mid-project.
Frequently asked questions about cement- & betongbruk
What is the best ready to use concrete for wet weather repairs?
+
Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg is the best ready to use concrete for wet weather repairs. Its plastic sack packaging protects the mix from moisture before use, and the 24-36 hour setting time allows for adjustments even in damp conditions. For urgent fixes, Bostik Cementone Rapid Set Cement 2.5kg Grey is also suitable, but you will need to work quickly. Both products only require water, making them practical for outdoor jobs in unpredictable British weather.
Does rapid set cement crack easily in outdoor use?
+
Rapid set cement, such as Bostik Cementone Rapid Set Cement 2.5kg Grey, can be prone to cracking if applied too thickly or in extreme temperature swings. It sets in just 20 minutes and is walkable after an hour, but for larger repairs or areas exposed to heavy rain, a slower-setting mix like Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg may be more durable. Always follow manufacturer guidelines on thickness and curing for best results.
Can I use Tarmac Blue Circle Postcrete Ready To Use 20kg for decking posts?
+
Yes, Tarmac Blue Circle Postcrete Ready To Use 20kg can be used for decking posts. It is formulated for fence and gate posts, setting in just 10 minutes without the need for mixing. Each 20kg bag is designed for one standard post hole. For structural decking supports, ensure the postcrete is used according to the manufacturer's instructions and not for load-bearing concrete slabs.
Which cement is best for bricklaying beginners?
+
Blue Circle Mastercrete Cement 25Kg is a good choice for bricklaying beginners. Its plastic-lined sack helps prevent clumping, and the mix is forgiving for those still learning the right consistency. The 38N/mm² compressive strength and up to 24-hour setting time give you flexibility to adjust bricks as you go. At £7.50 per 25kg bag, it is affordable for first-time users.
What is a good eco-friendly cement option in the UK?
+
While none of the reviewed products are specifically marketed as eco-friendly, Blue Circle Mastercrete Cement 25Kg uses a plastic-lined sack to reduce waste from spoiled cement. For those seeking lower environmental impact, look for products with recycled packaging or reduced clinker content. At present, most mainstream UK cements focus on durability and weather resistance rather than eco credentials.
Is there a low dust cement mix available?
+
Blue Circle Mastercrete Cement 25Kg is less dusty than traditional options due to its plastic-lined packaging and finer blend. This makes it more pleasant to handle, especially in enclosed spaces or for those sensitive to dust. For even lower dust, consider pre-mixed concretes like Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg, which require less handling and mixing.
Which cement mix is best for uneven ground?
+
For uneven ground, Blue Circle Multi-Purpose Ready To Use Concrete 20kg is a reliable option. Its easy mixing and workable consistency help fill gaps and level surfaces. The 0.01 m³ coverage per bag allows for targeted repairs, and the 24-36 hour setting time gives you time to shape the mix as needed. For fence posts on sloped ground, Tarmac Blue Circle Postcrete Ready To Use 20kg is also effective.
How fast does Bostik Cementone Rapid Set Cement 2.5kg set?
+
Bostik Cementone Rapid Set Cement 2.5kg sets in just 20 minutes and is walkable after one hour. This makes it ideal for emergency fixes or when you need to reopen an area quickly. The fast setting time means you must work efficiently, mixing only what you can use immediately. It is best for small repairs, cracks, and loose slabs rather than large-scale projects.
Other cement- & betongbruk included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Dansand No Grow Danfugesand Nature 20kg£14.50.020 kg
Blue Circle Ready To Use Slablayer 20kg£8.00kg
Bostik Cementone Colours For Cement 1kg Brick Red£8.30£8.30Or 3 interest-free payments of £2.76/mo.*4stores
Tarmac Circle High Strength (40N) Ready To Use 20kg£11.55kg
Blue Circle Extra Rapid Setting Cement 5kg Grey£12.25£12.25Or 3 interest-free payments of £4.08/mo.*3stores
