FAQ

General guidelines on storage and application

• STORAGE – Keep dry in a damp proof shed on raised platform or wrapped in plastic sheeting. Cement must be fresh and not lumpy. Do not keep cement for more than three [3] months.
• MIXING – Use the same size of the container for measuring all the materials in a batch and follow guidelines on proportions. Mix thoroughly to achieve uniform colour. Add water as you mix but avoid adding excess.
• WATER – Use minimum amount of water required to make the mix workable. Excess water will make the concrete or mortar weak.
• PLACING – For concrete, place as close to the target as possible. Compact using rod, spade or tamper to remove all air. Finish to desired levels and texture.
• CURING – Concrete or plaster: Keep moist for at least seven days to allow good strength development. Protect plaster from direct sunshine and strong winds by covering with plastic sheeting or damp sand.
• HEALTH AND SAFETY-Full protective clothing must be worn when handling cement; that is gloves, dust masks, gumboots.
• FIRST AID-Immediately rinse eyes and skin with copious amounts of water and seek medical attention if necessary.

Cement mixed with water, lime and sand, forms mortar.

Cement mixed with water and sand, forms cement plaster.

Cement mixed with water, sand and gravel, forms concrete.

Cement is a fine, soft, powdery-type substance. It is made from a mixture of elements that are found in natural materials such as limestone, clay, sand and/or shale. When cement is mixed with water, it can bind sand and gravel into a hard, solid mass called concrete.

Did you know? Four essential elements are needed to make cement. They are Calcium, Silicon, Aluminum and Iron.

Calcium (which is the main ingredient) can be obtained from limestone, whereas silicon can be obtained from sand and/or clay. Aluminum and iron can be extracted from bauxite and iron ore, and only small amounts are needed.

Cement is usually gray. White cement can also be found but it is usually more expensive than gray cement.

Most of our transactions are done through the bank. Our sales team shall provide you with account details of the various commercial banks upon your request. Proof of payment, in form of a fax or copy or e-mail scanned copy is required for eventual generation or your invoice. It is also acceptable to pay cash at our factory offices.

All loading takes place at our factory Indiva Siding, 37km East of Gweru. Sino-Zimbabwe Cement Company does not have haulage trucks to transport cement to customers. The customer arranges their own transport.

Cement prices are exclusive of transport cost.

For all potential customers wishing to purchase 30 tonnes (600 bags) of either type of cement, you are welcome to contact our Sales Office to buy cement directly from us.
For those wishing to buy few quantities, e.g. 50 bags, 150 bags, etc, we recommend that you buy them from our stockists or distributors around the country. We are represented in all towns and major townships of Zimbabwe in areas such as Harare, Gweru, Mutare, Masvingo, Chinhoyi, Gokwe, Kwekwe, Chegutu, Kadoma, Gutu, Chipinge, Chiredzi, Shurugwi, Karoi, Marondera, Rusape, Nyanga, etc.

We do business with people and companies outside Zimbabwe.

If you are a potential client outside Zimbabwe, take the following note:

• Applicable currency on all transactions is US Dollars.
• Payments are done through bank to bank money transfers.
• Prices are negotiated per each customer.
• Transport is arranged for you unless you already have it.
• Customs clearance for Zimbabwean side is done by us with the help of our Agent.
• By prior agreement, you can pay using other currencies e.g. SA Rand, Botswana Pula, etc.