Cement & Aggregates

Cement & aggregates form the backbone of virtually every construction project, from laying foundations and setting posts to mixing concrete and mortar for brickwork. At McMahons, we stock a comprehensive selection of bagged cement, sand, gravel, and ready-mixed products to support projects of all scales: whether you're a contractor pouring structural concrete or a homeowner tackling garden landscaping.

Our Cement and Aggregates Range

We carry the essential materials that make solid construction possible:

• General purpose cement: versatile OPC formulations suitable for most concreting, rendering, and mortar applications in standard conditions.
• Rapid-set and high-strength cements: ideal for cold weather pours, structural repairs, or situations where quick turnaround is critical.
• Sharp sand and building sand: graded for different uses, from laying paving slabs to mixing smooth pointing mortar.
• Gravel and ballast: varied aggregate sizes for concrete mixing, drainage layers, and sub-base preparation.
• Ready-mixed concrete and postcrete: convenient just-add-water solutions for fence posts, small repairs, and quick fixes without batching equipment.

For larger structural projects, pair these materials with our Bricks & Blocks to build walls, piers, and foundations that last.

Selecting the right mix depends on your application. For general concrete work, a standard cement with 20mm gravel provides good workability and strength. Mortar for brickwork typically requires building sand with a softer, more workable consistency. Consider ready-mixed options for smaller jobs where precision batching isn't practical.

Why Choose McMahons for Your Aggregates?

With nearly two centuries serving Irish builders, we understand what goes into quality construction. Our branches stock trusted brands in manageable bag sizes for easy handling, and our team can advise on quantities and specifications for your specific project requirements. Browse our full Building Materials range for everything else your build demands, then visit your local McMahons branch to collect your materials and get expert guidance from our experienced staff.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of cement should I use for general building work?

General Purpose (GP) cement is ideal for most construction tasks, including bricklaying, rendering, and small concrete projects.

2. What is the difference between sharp sand and building sand?

Sharp sand has a coarse texture, making it suitable for concrete and paving. Building sand is finer and commonly used for bricklaying and mortar mixes.

3. Do I need ballast or separate sand and gravel for concrete?

Ballast is a ready-blended mix of sand and gravel, perfect for creating concrete quickly. Using separate materials offers more control over mix ratios.

4. Are your aggregates suitable for drainage projects?

Yes. Many of our gravels and chippings are ideal for drainage systems, soakaways, and landscaping applications.

5. Can I use ready-mix materials for small DIY tasks?

Absolutely. Ready-mix cement and mortar bags are perfect for quick repairs, fence post setting, patching, and general household jobs.

6. How much aggregate or cement do I need?

Quantities depend on the size and depth of your project. Most product pages include coverage guidelines to help you estimate accurately.