White cement does the same chemical job as grey cement, but its colour makes it the choice for finishes where grey would show. In Lahore houses it is mostly used in the finishing stage: grout lines, terrazzo floors, decorative plaster and some putty and coating systems.
Types and specifications
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Standard | PS 1630 – White Portland Cement, on PSQCA's compulsory certification list |
| Packaging | Sold in bags; sizes vary, so check the printed weight |
| Colour | White; whiteness can vary between batches |
| Typical uses | Tile grouting, terrazzo, decorative plaster, precast items |
Standard from PSQCA. In 2019, the Ministry of Science and Technology told public bodies that PSQCA conformity was required for white cement along with OPC and masonry cement (Profit).
What white cement is used for
- Tile and marble grouting, alone or with pigments
- Terrazzo flooring, mixed with marble chips
- Decorative plaster and textures on facades and interiors
- Precast items such as jaalis and decorative panels
- Base for some wall putty applied before paint
It is not normally used for structural concrete because of cost.
Price reference
There is no current published Lahore rate for white cement in our data. It is priced per bag and costs more than grey cement. Get written, dated quotes from two or three suppliers for the same bag size and quantity.
Using white cement well
- Clean tools and mixing pans: traces of grey cement show up as grey streaks.
- Measure water carefully: too much water weakens grout and can cause shade differences.
- Mix pigment consistently: for coloured grout, weigh or measure pigment for each batch.
- Cure gently: keep fresh terrazzo and decorative plaster damp as your contractor advises so it does not crack.
- Protect finished work: cover fresh grout lines from dust and foot traffic.
- Test a small area first: for facades and large floors, approve a sample panel before full work.
Quality checks on delivery
- Check the printed weight – bag sizes vary for white cement.
- Weigh a few bags to confirm.
- Check the date – older stock may have absorbed moisture.
- Check the colour – open one bag and compare against a sample if colour matters.
- Same batch for one area – ask for the same batch for a single floor or facade to keep shade consistent.
- Reject damp, lumpy or torn bags.
- Match the invoice to product and quantity.
How much you need
It depends on the work: grout joint width and tile size, terrazzo thickness, or plaster area. Your tiling or finishing contractor should give quantities in writing. Since white cement costs more, avoid over-ordering.
Bulk-buying tips
- Buy closer to the finishing stage, not with your grey structure order
- Store in a dry, clean place; white cement shows dirt and moisture marks
- Keep it separate from grey cement so masons don't mix them up
- For large terrazzo or facade jobs, order the full quantity from one batch
- Pay per delivery against invoice
What affects the price
- Bag size and quantity
- Limited number of producers compared with grey cement
- Freight and delivery distance
- Market demand during finishing season
Questions to ask the supplier
- What is the bag weight and manufacturing date of current stock?
- Can you supply the full quantity from one batch?
- Is the product marked to PS 1630?
- Will you take back unopened bags if the order is reduced?
FAQs
Can I use white cement instead of grout? Many people use white cement for grouting, but ready-made grouts often have added polymers for flexibility and stain resistance. Ask your tile fixer which suits your tiles.
Is white cement stronger than grey cement? It is still a Portland cement; it is chosen for colour, not extra strength.
Why does my white cement look slightly grey or yellow? Batch differences, contamination with grey cement or dirty tools can change the colour.
What bag sizes are available? Bag sizes vary; check the weight printed on the bag before comparing prices.