Choose the Right Cement & Concrete for Your Project
Whether you're a DIY homeowner or professional contractor, selecting the right cement and concrete is critical for project success. At Graham's Hardware, we carry a complete range of cement and concrete products across all four Jamaica locations with island-wide delivery available.
Types of Cement We Carry
Portland Cement (Type I)
Best for: General construction, foundations, sidewalks, driveways
Strength: Standard strength, cures in 28 days
When to use: Most common residential and commercial projects where special properties aren't required
Rapid-Setting Cement (Type III)
Best for: Quick repairs, cold weather projects, fast-track construction
Strength: High early strength, reaches full strength in 7 days
When to use: When you need to put the surface into service quickly
Masonry Cement
Best for: Mortar for block laying, brick work, stucco
Strength: Lower strength, more workable
When to use: Bonding concrete blocks, bricks, or stone
Concrete Mix Options
Ready-Mix Concrete Bags
Pre-blended cement, sand, and gravel - just add water. Available in 40kg and 80lb bags.
- 3000 PSI Mix: Light-duty applications, walkways, patios
- 4000 PSI Mix: Standard foundations, slabs, driveways
- 5000 PSI Mix: Heavy-duty applications, commercial floors, high-traffic areas
Custom Mix Components
For larger projects, buy components separately and mix on-site:
- Portland Cement (bags)
- Aggregates & Sand (bulk or bags)
- Gravel (various sizes)
How Much Do You Need?
For slabs: Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (inches) ÷ 12 = cubic feet needed
For post holes: Number of holes × depth × 0.6 cubic feet per hole
Rule of thumb: One 80lb bag covers approximately 0.6 cubic feet at 4" depth
Mixing Ratios
Standard concrete mix: 1 part cement : 2 parts sand : 3 parts gravel
Mortar mix: 1 part cement : 3 parts sand
Water ratio: Start with 0.5 gallons per bag, add gradually until workable
Pro Tips from Graham's Hardware
- Always mix dry ingredients first before adding water
- Don't add too much water - it weakens the final strength
- Cure concrete slowly by keeping it moist for 7 days
- Work in temperatures between 50-90°F for best results
- Use rebar or wire mesh for slabs over 4 inches thick
Need Help Choosing?
Our experienced team at any of our four Jamaica locations can help you calculate quantities and select the right products for your specific project. We offer island-wide delivery for bulk orders.
Visit us at: Highgate, Port Maria, Ocho Rios, or St. Ann's Bay