White portland cement has essentially the same properties as gray cement, except for color, which is a very important quality control issue in the industry. It is readily available throughout North America.

The color of white cement depends on raw materials and the manufacturing process. It is the metal oxides (primarily iron and manganese) that influence the whiteness and undertone of the material. White cement is manufactured to conform to ASTM C 150, Specification for Portland Cement. Although Types I, II, III, and V white cements are produced, Types I and III are the most common.

White cements produce clean, bright colors, especially for light pastels. Many different colors can be created by adding pigments to concrete made with white portland cement. Two or more pigments can be combined to achieve a wide range of colors. White cement (or a mixture of white and gray cement) can be specified to provide a consistent color of choice. An even greater variety of decorative looks can be achieved by using colored aggregates and varying the surface finish treatment or texture.

Mix designs for white or colored concrete are formulated based on each ingredient's effect on concrete color:

• Type and color of cement
• Type and dosage of pigment
• Type and dosage of admixtures
• Type, gradation, color, and cleanliness of fine and coarse aggregates
• Consistent proportions, especially maintaining a uniform water-cement ratio

For every architectural project, once a mix design has been developed, sample panels should be built at the job site. These mockups serve as references for color and overall surface appearance.

 
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