Water-Cement Ratio

The water-cement ratio is the proportion of water to cement used in concrete mix. It is crucial because it affects the strength and durability of the concrete. A lower water-cement ratio leads to stronger, more durable concrete, while a higher ratio makes it weaker and more prone to cracks. Generally, the right balance is essential for achieving the desired workability for pouring and shaping the concrete. A common guideline is to aim for a ratio of about 0.4 to 0.6, meaning 0.4 to 0.6 parts water for every part of cement by weight.