What is it used for
Residential Construction: Mortar is used for laying bricks and blocks in home construction, including walls, chimneys, and fireplaces.
Commercial Construction: Employed in constructing office buildings, shopping centers, and other commercial structures, ensuring strong and stable brickwork.
Restoration Projects: Used in the restoration and repair of historic buildings, matching the original mortar for authenticity and durability.
Dimensions
Volume: Typically purchased by the cubic meter (m³) or in pre-mixed bags
Weight: Approximately 1.7 tons per cubic meter (1700 kg/m³)
What it’s Made From
Cement: Acts as the primary binding material, providing the necessary strength for the mortar.
Lime: Often added to enhance workability and water retention.
Sand: Provides the bulk of the mortar mix, ensuring stability and uniformity.
Water: Essential for mixing and hydrating the cement and lime.
Additives: Can include plasticizers, accelerators, and retarders to improve workability and setting time.
Variations
Type N Mortar
Description: General-purpose mortar with balanced strength and flexibility.
Applications: Suitable for exterior and above-grade walls.
Type S Mortar
Description: Higher strength mortar with enhanced load-bearing capacity.
Applications: Ideal for foundations, retaining walls, and other structural applications.
Type M Mortar
Description: High compressive strength mortar, extremely durable.
Applications: Used in severe conditions such as below-grade applications, stone masonry, and high-traffic areas.
Installation
Tools Required:
Trowel | Mixing bucket | Spirit level | Pointing tool | Mason's hammer
Materials Required:
Mortar mix | Water | Brick or block units
Step-by-Step Guide:
Preparation: Ensure all surfaces are clean and free from dust or debris.
Mix Mortar: Combine mortar mix with water as per the manufacturer's instructions until achieving a workable consistency.
Apply Mortar: Spread a layer of mortar onto the base and apply to the edges of the bricks or blocks.
Lay Units: Position the bricks or blocks, pressing them into the mortar bed and tapping into place.
Check Level: Use a spirit level to ensure each layer is even and aligned correctly.
Point Joints: Once the mortar starts to set, smooth the joints with a pointing tool for a clean finish.
Curing: Allow the mortar to cure adequately, protecting it from harsh weather conditions during the initial setting period.
Technical Specification
Compressive Strength: Varies based on mix design, typically between 5 MPa to 20 MPa.
Workability: Should be easy to spread and shape, adhering well to surfaces.
Durability: Resistant to weathering, freeze-thaw cycles, and chemical exposure.
Certification
British Standard (BS EN 998-2): Specifies requirements for mortar for masonry.
ISO 14001: Environmental management certification, ensuring responsible production processes.
Purchasing Quantities
Small Bags
Perfect for small repairs or DIY projects, typically available in 25 kg or 40 kg bags.
Bulk Bags
Ideal for larger construction projects, often supplied in 500 kg or 1000 kg bulk bags.
Ready-Mix
Delivered in ready-to-use form for large-scale projects, ordered by the cubic meter and delivered by truck.
Environmental Impact
Sustainability: Efforts include using recycled materials, low-carbon cements, and alternative binders.
Alternative Options: Eco-friendly options include lime-based mortars and geopolymer mortars.
Suppliers
